Course overview
Express your individuality, challenge the norm and create without limitations under the guidance of experienced industry professionals in Deakin's Bachelor of Creative Arts. Immerse yourself in your creative practice and develop the adaptable critical skills necessary to become an agile and versatile creative with a sustainable career in the arts sector.
Get amongst the next generation of dynamic practising creatives when you major in dance, photography, theatre, visual arts or writing.
Along with your major, you will personalise your degree with minors in complementary study areas, like scriptwriting, 2D and 3D practices, theatre production, Indigenous studies and more. You might also choose a second major from the School of Communication and Creative Arts from animation to public relations to communication design.
Each day you will delve into new creative mediums and experiment in areas that develop your interests and unique talents.
Want to build a sustained arts career doing what you love?
Realise your creative dreams when you study a Bachelor of Creative Arts at Deakin. You will dedicate yourself to mastering your creative practice and spend your days exploring fresh perspectives through your craft.
Explore a diverse range of creative mediums to tell captivating stories through your craft, in a flexible and supportive environment. You will have the scope to expand your creative practice beyond what you’ve ever imagined, preparing you to thrive in the contemporary arts world.
From day one, you will connect and collaborate with a vibrant community of creatives and makers who share the same passions as you. Our accomplished academics and practising creative professionals will support and mentor you along your journey, challenging you to reach your full potential. You’ll create in our specialty learning spaces – including studios, gallery spaces and theatres – and utilise the latest technology to enhance your creative vision.
Over the course of the degree, you will develop an entrepreneurial mindset, and the leadership skills needed to keep pace in the fast-moving creative industries. Beyond your creative practice, you will develop real-world skills and form connections with the arts industry through programs, internships, and volunteering opportunities.
You will be supported by Deakin to design your internship. Choose from 600+ employers like Affirm Press and Arts of the Mind or craft your own.
By the time you graduate, you will have the foundations to work across the arts and entertainment industries in anything from live theatre and dance, film and television to media and communications, or develop an independent freelance career working towards exhibitions, publications, festivals and community productions and events.
Key dates
Direct applications to Deakin for Trimester 2 2026 close 21 June 2026
VTAC entries are closed.
Current Deakin students
To access your official course details for the year you started your degree, please visit the handbook
- Award granted
- Bachelor of Creative Arts
- Year
2026 course information
- VTAC code
Creative Arts: 1400511391 - Burwood (Melbourne), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Creative Arts (Dance major): 1400511471 - Burwood (Melbourne), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Creative Arts (Theatre major): 1400511481 - Burwood (Melbourne), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Creative Arts (Photography major): 1400511491 - Burwood (Melbourne), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Creative Arts (Visual Arts major): 1400511511 - Burwood (Melbourne), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Creative Arts (Writing major): 1400511521 - Burwood (Melbourne), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)- Deakin code
- A317
- CRICOS code?Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students
- 109271E Burwood (Melbourne)
- Level
- Undergraduate
- Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition
The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 7
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Choose a Deakin degree for vital industry experience on placements, hands-on learning in world-class facilities and guidance from industry-expert academics. We offer lifetime career support and are the #1 Victorian university for graduate employment.
Course structure
To complete the Bachelor of Creative Arts, you must pass 24 credit points. This includes:
- DAI001 Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin (0-credit-point compulsory unit) in your first study period
- 1 credit point of thematic core units
- 3 credit points of Employability sequence units
- one of:
- 2 majors (8 credit points each). At least one major must be chosen from the Creative Arts majors
- 1 major (8 credit points) from the Creative Arts majors, plus 1 minor (4 credit points)
- remaining credit points which may comprise of:
- 1 additional minor
- open elective units
- a combination of the above
- a maximum of 10 credit points at level 1
- a minimum of 6 credit points at level 3
Most units are equal to one credit point. As a full-time student you will study four credit points per trimester and usually undertake two trimesters per year.
All students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements.
Plus 1 credit point from:
Plus 1 credit point from:
All Bachelor of Creative Arts students are required to complete at least one major sequence from the following list:
Bachelor of Creative Arts major sequences
Students may choose to complete a second major sequence from the following list:
School of Communication and Creative Arts major sequences
- Advertising
- Animation
- Communication design
- Digital and social media
- Interactive and UX^ Design
- Journalism
- Screen development
- Public relations
- Screen production
^UX refers to User Experience
Please check the rules of each major sequence to see which units you need to complete to achieve the required credit points.
Refer to the details of each major sequence availability and sequence notes relating to incompatibility.
- 2D practices in the visual arts
- 3D practices in the visual arts
- animation and motion graphics
- brand design
- creative advertising
- creative writing
- dance
- design for social media
- digital media
- film studies
- gender and sexuality studies
- indigenous studies*
- interactive design
- journalism
- literature
- photography
- photojournalism
- professional writing
- public relations
- public relations strategy
- publication design
- screen production
- scriptwriting
- social media
- strategic advertising
- theatre
- technical production
- UX design^
- visual effects and virtual production
^ UX refers to User Experience
Please check the rules of each minor sequence to see which units you need to complete to achieve the required credit points.
Students are advised to refer to the details of each major or minor sequence for availability as some may be offered in campus and/or online mode only.
Intakes by location
The availability of a course varies across locations and intakes. This means that a course offered in Trimester 1 may not be offered in the same location for Trimester 2 or 3. Check each intake for up-to-date information on when and where you can commence your studies.
- Start date: March
- Available at:
- Burwood (Melbourne)
- Start date: July
- Available at:
- Burwood (Melbourne)
Deakin splits the academic year into three terms, known as trimesters. Most students usually undertake two trimesters each year (March-June, July-November).
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Course duration
You may be able to study available units in the optional third trimester to fast-track your degree, however your course duration may be extended if there are delays in meeting course requirements, such as completing a placement.
Mandatory student checks
Any unit which contains work integrated learning, a community placement or interaction with the community may require a police check, Working with Children Check or other check.
Participation requirements
Reasonable adjustments to participation and other course requirements will be made for students with a disability. More information available at Disability support services.
Work experience
Prepare for your future by getting real world experience and the employability skills to succeed, while completing your degree. The Employability Stream is tailored to support you to be future ready. Deakin’s suite of Work Integrated Learning programs can connect you with internships, social impact programs and opportunities to extend your skills in settings across the globe.
Elective units may also provide additional opportunities for Work Integrated Learning experiences.
Entry requirements
Selection is based on a holistic consideration of your academic merit, work experience, likelihood of success, availability of places, participation requirements, regulatory requirements, and individual circumstances. You will need to meet the minimum academic and English language proficiency requirements to be considered for selection, but this does not guarantee admission.
A combination of qualifications and experience may be deemed equivalent to minimum academic requirements.
If you don't meet the academic entry requirements as outlined in the tabs below, or haven't completed Year 12, or don't hold any relevant qualifications, the STAT (Skills for Tertiary Admissions Test) Multiple Choice (MC) may be an option for you to meet course entry requirements.
Academic requirements
If you’re currently studying Year 12, or completed Year 12 in the last two years, you will need to meet all the following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:
Year 12 prerequisite subjects
- Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English EAL (English as an Additional Language) or at least 20 in English other than EAL
ATAR
- Senior Secondary Certificate of Education with an unadjusted ATAR of at least 50 or equivalent
If you have undertaken higher education studies after secondary schooling, you will need to meet all the following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:
- successful completion of at least two bachelor level or above units (AQF Level 7 or equivalent)
If you have undertaken any Vocational Education and Training (VET) study after secondary school, you will need to meet at least one of following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:
- completion of a certificate IV or higher in a related discipline
- completion of a diploma or higher in any discipline
- at least 50% completion of a diploma or higher in a related discipline
If you finished Year 12 more than three years ago, or did not finish Year 12, and have not undertaken any further study, you may be considered for admission to this degree based on your work, volunteer and/or life experience.
Submit a personal statement outlining your motivation to study, previous education and employment history, and how this course can assist your career aspirations or progression. Think of it as a job application cover letter – it should be relevant and demonstrate your commitment and interest in this course or study area.
To meet the English language proficiency requirements of this course, you will need to demonstrate at least one of the following:
- Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) English Units 3 and 4: Study score of 25 in English as an Additional Language (EAL) or 20 in any other English
- IELTS overall score of 6.0 (with no band score less than 6.0) or equivalent
- other evidence of English language proficiency (learn more about other ways to satisfy the requirements)
Subject Adjustments
A study score of 30 in Art Creative Practice, Dance, Drama, Media, any Music, Art Making and Exhibiting, Theatre Studies or Visual Communication Design equals 4 aggregate points per study. Overall maximum of 12 points.
Access and equity
Equity schemes and scholarships, formerly known as Special Entry Access Schemes (SEAS), enable Deakin to consider any disadvantaged circumstances you may have experienced and how these have impacted your studies. Equity schemes help us identify whether you are from an under-represented group when making selection decisions for certain courses. It's important to note that participation in an equity scheme does not exempt you from meeting the standard course entry requirements. Learn more about Deakin's equity schemes and scholarships.
Learn more about Deakin courses and how we compare to other universities when it comes to the quality of our teaching and learning. We're also committed to admissions transparency. Read about our first intake of 2026 students (PDF, 879KB) – their average ATARs, whether they had any previous higher education experience and more.
Not sure if you can get into Deakin? Discover the different entry pathways we offer and study options available to you, no matter your ATAR or education history.
Recognition of prior learning
The University aims to provide students with as much credit as possible for approved prior study or informal learning which exceeds the normal entrance requirements for the course and is within the constraints of the course regulations. Students are required to complete a minimum of one-third of the course at Deakin University, or four credit points, whichever is the greater.
You can also refer to the recognition of prior learning (RPL) system which outlines the credit that may be granted towards a Deakin University degree and how to apply for credit.
Fees and scholarships
Fee information
Estimated tuition fee - (CSP) ?Enrolling in a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) means the Australian Government pays part of your course fees directly to Deakin, and you pay a 'student contribution'.
$11,908 for 1 yr full-time - Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Learn more about fees.
The tuition fees you pay will depend on the units you choose, as each unit has its own cost. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is provided as a guide only and represents the typical first-year tuition fees for students enrolled in this course. The cost will vary depending on the units you choose, your study load, the time it takes to complete your course and any approved Recognition of prior learning you have.
Each unit you enrol in has a credit point value. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is calculated by adding together 8 credit points of a typical combination of units for this course. Eight credit points is used as it represents a typical full-time enrolment load for a year. You can find the credit point value of each unit under the Unit Description by searching for the unit in the handbook.
Learn more about fees and available payment options on our Current students fees website or estimate your tuition fees.
Scholarship options
We want to help you excel at Deakin. Our scholarships recognise your dedication and achievements, providing financial support that can ease the cost of living and studying. With less pressure, you’ll have more freedom to focus on what matters most – your education and future success.
Apply now
Apply through VTAC
Applications for Trimester 1, 2027 will open on 3 August. Each year, thousands of students prepare for uni with the help of Deakin support services. We offer a huge range of support, including one-on-one consultations, webinars, online resources and events throughout the year.
Apply directly to Deakin
To apply, create an account in the Deakin Application Portal, enter your personal details and education experience, upload supporting documents and submit. Need help? Play this video, or contact one of our friendly future student advisers on 1800 693 888 or submit an online enquiry.
Pathways
View pathways into the Bachelor of Creative Arts with our pathways finder.
Articulated courses:
Career outcomes
Deakin is the #1 Victorian university for graduate employment.* With us you can step-into your future with confidence. You will have the freedom to experiment with creative art forms and explore a diverse range of majors and minors, allowing you to become a dynamic creative with a range of in-demand practical skills.
Our work-integrated learning opportunities ensure that you will graduate with the professional network and practical skills needed to lead you to your future career in the arts, whether you decide to work in an arts organisation, or pursue your goals as an entrepreneurial freelancer.
You will be able to take your degree into a range of careers, including:
- acting
- administration
- art therapies
- arts administration and curation
- commercial art direction, design, or illustration
- community art practice
- community theatre
- copywriting and technical writing
- dance
- drama
- editing
- education
- event, festival and production management
- experimental art practices
- gallery curation
- photography
- professional and creative writing
- publishing
- research
- stage management
- theatre directing
- visual arts
- visual communication
For more information go to DeakinTALENT.
*Australian Graduate Survey 2010–2015, Graduate Outcomes Survey 2016–2023, Quality Indicators for Learning and Teaching (QILT). The #1 graduate employment is based on overall employment for domestic undergraduates of Victorian universities, 4–6 months after course completion, with an equal overall employment rate with Monash University.
Deakin's graduate learning outcomes describe the knowledge and capabilities graduates can demonstrate at the completion of their course. These outcomes mean that regardless of the Deakin course you undertake, you can rest assured your degree will teach you the skills and professional attributes that employers value. They'll set you up to learn and work effectively in the future.
| Deakin Graduate Learning Outcomes | Course Learning Outcomes |
|---|---|
| Discipline-specific knowledge and capabilities | Interpret and apply conceptual, theoretical and technical skills in the analysis and presentation of a range of artistic artefacts within areas of specialisation and across multidisciplinary contexts. |
| Communication | Articulate critical engagement with a variety of mediums, methods, techniques and strategies to present ideas, exhibitions, performances and/or practical work. |
| Digital literacy | Critically evaluate and apply a range of information technologies, digital tools, devices and environments to support and develop ideas and creative expression. |
| Critical thinking | Analyse and synthesise research materials through multiple sources and mediums to generate original and innovative ideas about creative work in diverse cultural settings. |
| Problem solving | Identify, explore and generate solutions to creative arts problems grounded in theory and/or practice. |
| Self-management | Develop, manage and critically reflect upon the production and presentation of creative works in accordance with industry standards and personal learning goals. |
| Teamwork | Contribute in a constructive, ethical and respectful way to the collaborative production of creative outcomes. |
| Global citizenship | Apply critical knowledge and awareness of diverse social and cultural contexts when engaging in creative arts practice. |
Approved at Faculty Board February 2022
*Deakin references data from a range of government, higher education and reputable media sources. For more information, visit our University rankings page.
