Key facts
3 years full-time
Current Deakin Students
To access your official course details for the year you started your degree, please visit the handbook
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 practicing creatives when you major in one of the following specialist areas:
- dance
- photography
- publishing
- theatre
- visual arts
- 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. 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’ll 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’ll 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 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.
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.
Read MoreCourse information
- Award granted
- Bachelor of Creative Arts
- Year
2024 course information
- VTAC code
- 1400511393 - Burwood (Melbourne), International full-fee paying place
- Deakin code
- A317
- CRICOS code?
- 109271E Burwood (Melbourne)
- Level
- Undergraduate
- Approval status
This course is approved by the University under the Higher Education Standards Framework.
- Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition
The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 7.
Course structure
To complete the requirements for the Bachelor of Creative Arts, students must complete 24 credit points including:
- 3 credit points of creative arts thematic core units
- 3 credit points of employability sequence units
Plus either:
- 2 major sequences of at least 8 credit points
OR
- 1 major sequence of at least 8 credit points plus 1 minor sequence of at least 4 credit points
Remaining credit points may be used to undertake elective units or to undertake an additional minor sequence.
One major must be taken from the majors offered in the degree in which you are enrolled. The other major or minor sequences may be taken from Bachelor of Communication, Bachelor of Design or Bachelor of Film Television and Animation major or minor sequences.
Students must also ensure that they have met the following course rules to be eligible to graduate with a Bachelor of Creative Arts:
- a maximum of 10 credit points at level 1
- a minimum of 6 credit points at level 3
- Academic Integrity Module DAI001 Academic Integrity Module (0-credit-point compulsory unit)
A major or minor sequence is a group of units in a particular area of study taken over the three levels of your course. Each unit is usually worth 1 credit point.
A major sequence is made up of 8 credit points, and a minor sequence is made of 4 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.
6
Creative arts and Employability core units
16
Major or Minor units
2
Elective units
24
Total units
Creative Arts Thematic Core
Employability sequence
Plus 1 credit point from:
Plus 1 credit point from:
Major sequences
Please check the rules of each major 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.
Minor sequences
- 2D Practices in the Visual Arts
- 3D Practices in the Visual Arts
- Analogue Practices (Photography)
- Creative Writing
- Dance
- Digital Practices (Photography)
- Indigenous Studies*
- Professional Writing
- Scriptwriting
- Theatre
- Theatre Production
*available via Online study only
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.
Trimester 1 - March
- Start date: March
- Available at:
- Burwood (Melbourne)
Trimester 2 - July
- 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).
Additional course information
Course duration
Course duration may be affected by delays in completing course requirements, such as accessing or completing work placements.
Typically 150-hours of learning and assessment activities per Deakin credit point.
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
Senior certificate of education
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
English language proficiency requirements
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)
Admission criteria
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 course entry requirements to be considered for selection, but this does not guarantee admission.
Higher education study
Academic requirements
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)
English language proficiency requirements
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)
Admission criteria
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 course entry requirements to be considered for selection, but this does not guarantee admission.
Polytechnic study
Academic requirements
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
English language proficiency requirements
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)
Admission criteria
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 course entry requirements to be considered for selection, but this does not guarantee admission.
Work and life experience
Academic requirements
If you finished Year 12 more than three years ago, or did not finish Year 12, and haven't 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.
English language proficiency requirements
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)
Admission criteria
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 course entry requirements to be considered for selection, but this does not guarantee admission.
Admissions information
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 2023 students (PDF, 354.0KB) – 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.
Online studies
Deakin offers many courses which can be studied by distance education overseas.
However, international students living in Australia on a student visa, in each compulsory trimester (that is, Trimesters 1 and 2), must enrol in at least one unit that is offered as a Campus located unit and can, in addition enrol in units offered online. International students may undertake a maximum of up to one third (or equivalent) of their study as online study. Please note enrolment in one face to face unit in compulsory study periods is only allowed if the student is completing their final unit of study and will not exceed maximum one third (or equivalent) online requirement.
Recognition of prior learning
If you have completed previous studies which you believe may reduce the number of units you have to complete at Deakin, indicate in the appropriate section on your application that you wish to be considered for credit transfer. You will need to provide a certified copy of your previous course details so your credit can be determined. If you are eligible, your offer letter will then contain information about your credit transfer.
Your credit transfer is formally approved prior to your enrolment at Deakin during the Enrolment and Orientation Program. You must bring original documents relating to your previous study so that this approval can occur.
You can also refer to the Recognition of prior learning system which outlines the credit that may be granted towards a Deakin University degree.
Fees and scholarships
Fee information
Learn more about fees and your options for paying.
Scholarship options
A Deakin scholarship could help you pay for your course fees, living costs and study materials. If you've got something special to offer Deakin - or maybe you just need a bit of extra support - we've got a scholarship opportunity for you. Search or browse through our scholarships
Apply now
International students who are currently completing an Australian Year 12 in Australia or overseas should apply through the Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC), as well as directly to Deakin through StudyLink Connect – Deakin University's International Student Application Service. For information on the application process and closing dates, see the How to apply web page.
All other international students apply directly to the University through StudyLink Connect - Deakin University's International Student Application Service. For information on the application process and closing dates, see the How to apply web page.
Fill out the application form and submit to a Deakin International office or take your application form to a Deakin representative for assistance
For information on the application process and closing dates, see the How to apply webpage.
If you’re still having problems, please contact Deakin International for assistance.
To learn more about what a Bachelor of Creative Arts at Deakin has to offer, download our course flyer.
Careers
Career outcomes
You'll 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’ll 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
Course learning outcomes
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 synthesize 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 | |