University of Adelaide

What you'll study

This programme combines studio-based practice, theory and professional development. In the early stages you build foundations in creative practice and creative industries theory, then progress to specialised streams and a capstone project or professional placement. Core areas commonly covered include:

• Creative practice: studio units in digital media, screen production, sound and performance, creative writing and interdisciplinary project work.
• Industry knowledge: cultural policy, audience development, media industries, marketing for the arts and intellectual property basics.
• Production skills: practical modules in camera and editing, audio production, web and interactive media, design software and project management.
• Professional practice: entrepreneurship for creatives, portfolio development, pitching, funding models and career preparedness.
• Research and critical study: critical theory, cultural studies, histories of art and media, and methods units that support a final-year capstone project or placement.

Students choose from discipline-focused streams or electives to tailor the degree to interests such as screen, digital media, writing, curation or events and festival programming. Final-year work typically involves a major project, professional internship or industry-linked collaboration supervised by academic staff.

Entry requirements

Admission is based on secondary school completion or recognised equivalent. Typical entry pathways include a year 12 qualification with an appropriate ATAR or an equivalent international qualification (for example IB, A-levels or recognised overseas secondary credentials). Applicants whose first language is not English must meet the University's English language proficiency standards.

• Some specialisations may request a portfolio or examples of creative work demonstrating practical skills and creative potential.
• Mature-age applicants or those with vocational qualifications or relevant work experience can apply through alternative admission pathways; prior learning and work experience may be considered for credit.
• Domestic applicants may be eligible for articulation from TAFE or other tertiary qualifications; check the University for recognised pathways and credit arrangements.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of roles across creative and cultural industries. Career paths commonly followed include:

• Content producer, digital media producer or multimedia designer for screen, online and broadcast platforms.
• Arts administrator, festival programmer, events manager or cultural development officer in public, private and not-for-profit sectors.
• Creative practitioner roles such as writer, filmmaker, sound designer, curator or interdisciplinary artist.
• Marketing and communications roles focused on audience engagement, social media and brand storytelling for cultural organisations.
• Entrepreneurial pathways including freelance creative careers, independent production and creative start-ups; many graduates also pursue honours or postgraduate study in specialised fields.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide offers a research-informed curriculum combined with practical training and industry engagement. Students benefit from dedicated creative studios and production facilities, such as editing suites, sound and recording spaces and digital labs, as well as access to guest practitioners and industry partnerships across South Australia's cultural sector.

Studying in Adelaide provides opportunities to connect with major festivals, galleries and independent arts organisations, supporting internships and collaborative projects. The University also offers student support services including career development, exhibition and performance opportunities, and interdisciplinary study options that make it straightforward to combine creative practice with complementary subjects.