Certificate IV in Circus Arts

Certificate IV in Circus Arts

The Certificate IV in Circus Arts course provides aspiring circus artists a comprehensive introductory experience into high performance circus arts training. It equips graduates with the skills and knowledge to perform in circus arts at preliminary level in community, recreational and pre-professional environments, or to audition for the Bachelor of Circus Arts. It is a highly disciplined program with a great deal of scope for creativity.

Curriculum

To achieve the qualification, learners must complete a total of 13 units, including 9 core units and 4 elective units. Core units encompass foundation skills in circus including strength and conditioning, body awareness, flexibility, fitness preparation, acrobatics, handstands training, performance and movement, group acts, and group specialty skills. Students focus on their own area of specialisation whilst developing communication, trust, and performance skills through group and partner work. A major ensemble circus performance is staged at the end of the year. Students can enrol in any group of 4 electives that complete a specialisation stream of their choice, including Specialty Artist, Circus Coach, or Show Technical Support.

Schedule

Contact hours are 27 hours per week for 36 weeks. Training and classes are scheduled Monday to Friday, between 8:30am and 5:30pm. The program combines in-person practical sessions with integrated online learning components. Students are expected to train additional hours to support their learning.

Who it's for

This course is ideal for those seeking a one-year circus experience or those who wish to acquire more specific circus skills training. It is also suitable for students preparing for the Bachelor of Circus Arts.

Audition

Auditions for entry into NICA’s accredited courses in 2027 will be held at NICA in late September 2026. Video auditions can be submitted for those who cannot attend an in-person audition. There is a one-off administration fee of $50.00 to apply to audition.

Language

English