Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

This diploma emphasises practical studio work, creative thinking and professional practice across a range of creative arts disciplines. Study typically combines core units that establish fundamentals with elective options so you can explore areas of interest.

• Fundamentals of Visual Practice – drawing, composition, colour and basic visual language.
• Digital Media and Imaging – introduction to image-making software, digital photography and basic editing workflows.
• Studio Practice – hands-on workshops in painting, printmaking, sculpture or mixed media depending on campus offerings.
• Performance and Time-based Media – introductory units in moving-image, sound or performance practices where available.
• Contemporary Art and Visual Culture – contextual studies that introduce critical reading, art history and contemporary practice.
• Design Foundations – basic graphic and spatial design principles relevant to creative industries.
• Professional and Collaborative Projects – project management, exhibition-making, portfolio development and industry engagement.

Learning is practice-led and project-based, with assessment typically through practical projects, presentations and a final folio or public-facing exhibition. The course is structured so students can complete a concentrated, skills-based program that can articulate into undergraduate study with credit, subject to the receiving degree’s policies.

Entry requirements

• Successful completion of secondary schooling or an equivalent qualification recognised by the university, or successful completion of an approved pathway program.
• Mature-age applicants without formal recent study are considered on the basis of life and work experience, and may be invited to attend an interview.
• Applicants may be asked to submit a small folio or examples of creative work, particularly for places with limited intake or when applying for specialised streams.
• International applicants must meet the university’s English language requirements and provide evidence of equivalent academic qualifications.
• Meeting minimum entry conditions does not guarantee admission; selection may take account of capacity and alignment of prior study with the programme.

Career prospects

The diploma equips graduates with practical skills and a portfolio to pursue entry-level roles and further study in the creative industries. Common next steps include:

• Continuation into an undergraduate degree in creative arts, visual arts, media, design or education, often with options for credit transfer.
• Entry-level employment such as gallery or museum assistant, exhibition technician, design or studio assistant, community arts worker, production support for events or media projects, and junior roles in creative agencies.
• Freelance opportunities and small-scale creative enterprises where graduates apply hands-on skills to commissions, markets and community projects.

The course also supports those intending to move into education pathways or arts administration by providing foundational knowledge of arts practice, curation and project management.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

• ACU offers a practice-led approach with small studio classes that prioritise individual feedback and skill development.
• The diploma provides a clear pathway into undergraduate study at ACU, enabling students to build a portfolio and receive credit towards a bachelor degree where eligible.
• Teaching staff combine professional practice and academic expertise, helping students connect coursework with industry expectations and workplace practices.
• Students benefit from campus-based studios, workshops and exhibition opportunities alongside links to local arts organisations and community projects.
• The program is suited to students seeking a supported environment to develop creative confidence, practical techniques and professional readiness before committing to longer tertiary study.