The Certificate IV in Dance (CUA40120) is a nationally recognised Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) Level 4 vocational qualification delivered through Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) across Australia. The course reflects the role of individuals working in a wide variety of dance performance contexts, equipping students with advanced technical, creative, and conceptual skills to excel in their chosen styles. Typically completed over 12 to 24 months, the program covers multiple dance genres — including ballet, jazz, contemporary, tap, street dance, and cultural dance — while also developing professional knowledge in areas such as anatomy, safe dance practice, injury prevention, choreography, production management, and the business of the performing arts. Students complete a combination of core and elective units, totalling 13 units of competency, allowing them to tailor their learning towards performance, teaching, or choreography pathways.

The Certificate IV in Dance is designed for experienced dancers who have already demonstrated competency in at least one dance style at Certificate III level and are ready to take their skills into a professional or pre-professional context. It suits younger students completing their senior secondary education alongside vocational training, as well as those seeking a direct pathway into full-time performance training, a diploma-level qualification, or employment in the dance industry. The course is distinct from the Certificate IV in Dance Teaching and Management (CUA40320), which is oriented towards those pursuing careers in dance education and studio management rather than performance.

Employers and industry pathways for graduates span the full breadth of Australia's performing arts sector. These include professional dance companies, musical theatre productions, television and film productions, cruise ship entertainment, corporate events, dance studios, schools, community arts organisations, and the music and entertainment industries. Australia is home to world-renowned organisations such as The Australian Ballet, Sydney Dance Company, Bangarra Dance Theatre, and numerous independent contemporary dance companies, all of which represent aspirational employers for graduates of this qualification.

To enrol in the Certificate IV in Dance, applicants are generally required to demonstrate prior dance competency equivalent to Certificate III level in at least one dance style. This is typically evidenced through a formal audition conducted in person or via video submission, where the applicant demonstrates technical ability and performance quality in their chosen genre. Some providers also accept formal examination certifications from recognised dance examination bodies such as the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD), CSTD, BATD, or equivalent, particularly for the Dance Teaching and Management pathway. There are generally no formal academic prerequisites, meaning students do not need to have completed Year 12, though many students undertake this qualification concurrently with their senior secondary education to earn ATAR credits (available in some states such as South Australia through the SACE).

Most providers set a minimum age requirement, typically 15 years of age, reflecting the vocational and sometimes studio-based nature of the training. International students must meet English language requirements, which vary by provider but are generally in line with IELTS 5.5 or equivalent. Students may also need to provide a Working With Children Check (or state equivalent) prior to undertaking any supervised teaching or practical placement components, particularly in providers offering the Dance Teaching and Management specialisation. Some providers may require a short written statement of intent or evidence of commitment to a dance career as part of the application process.