A Bachelor of Creative Industries (Theatre and Performance) is a three-year undergraduate degree that blends practical performance training with theoretical and professional study in the performing arts. The course is designed to develop well-rounded artists and industry professionals who can perform, create, direct, produce, and facilitate work across a wide range of theatrical and live performance contexts. Students typically study acting technique, voice and body training, performance theory, theatre history, directing, dramaturgy, production design, and arts management, graduating with both deep craft knowledge and transferable professional skills applicable to the broader creative industries sector.

The degree suits students who are passionate about performance but also want the strategic and entrepreneurial skills to sustain a career in the arts. Programs typically integrate study of both traditional and contemporary theatre forms — from Stanislavski-based realism and Shakespearean text to physical theatre, devised performance, and community arts practice. Coursework is heavily studio-based, with students regularly rehearsing, performing, and creating work for live audiences in black box theatres, outdoor spaces, and community venues throughout their studies.

Graduates are employed across a diverse range of sectors in Australia, including major state theatre companies, independent theatre producers, arts festivals, community arts organisations, arts education providers, film and television production, corporate events, cultural policy bodies, and government arts agencies. Employers include organisations such as state theatre companies, opera houses, arts festivals, youth arts organisations, community centres, secondary schools, arts councils, and media companies — with many graduates also pursuing freelance and self-generated performance careers.

Most Australian providers require completion of Year 12 or equivalent, with an ATAR (or equivalent state-based rank) forming the basis of academic entry. Typical ATARs for theatre and performance degrees range from around 55 to 75, though this varies by institution and program. Alternative entry pathways are widely available, including TAFE or VET qualifications (Certificate IV or Diploma in a relevant arts field), mature-age entry, and recognition of prior learning. Some institutions also consider strong results in specific Year 12 subjects such as English, Drama, or Literature as part of their assessment.

A distinguishing feature of acting and performance-focused streams is the audition requirement. Most programs that focus on acting or performance practice require applicants to attend a formal audition process, which may include prepared monologues, movement exercises, improvisation, and an interview. Auditions are typically scheduled after the initial application is submitted and are used to assess creative potential, stage presence, and commitment to the discipline. Drama and performance-making streams that focus more on production, community arts, or theatre-making may instead require a portfolio submission, personal statement, or interview rather than a full audition.

For international students, English language proficiency is required, typically demonstrated through an IELTS Academic score of 6.0 to 6.5 overall with no individual band below 6.0, or an equivalent qualification. Some providers also strongly encourage applicants to have background experience in drama, performing arts, or related extracurricular activities, though this is not always a formal prerequisite. Students without the assumed knowledge base in English and Drama are often encouraged to undertake bridging studies before commencing.