NICA is embarking on the new intake of students for 2026. With the Bachelor degree firmly nested with NICA’s new educational partner – the Australian College of the Arts (Collarts) – the Certificate IV program has gone through an exciting overhaul and now features three new study streams: Specialty Artist, Circus Coach, and Show Technical Support – the first of its kind for Australia.
At the core of all NICA programs is the creation of incredible circus artists, however, there is an imperative to create additional pathways for students. The new streams are built to service gaps within the circus industry, which suffered a mass-exit of creative professionals from the performing arts industry during 2020-2021. It was identified that a new course structure was required to reskill the next generation of circus arts workers to meet growing industry demand.
The Coaching stream is designed to strengthen youth circus at the grassroots while providing students with dual job prospects upon graduation. The Show Technical Support stream supports graduates seeking employable skills both on and off stage. While the Specialty stream honours the born performers who want to go all-in, particularly those who are aiming to upskill and audition for the Bachelor’s Degree.
In 2023, The Australian government department, Jobs and Skills Australia in partnership with Victoria University provided employment projections for artists and entertainers of 6.5% growth to 2028 expanding to13.2% growth by 2033. The report identifies the necessity of increasing the profile of performing arts in society and have maintained the need for VET accredited circus training. The report also recognises the important role of the Victorian education and training system in supporting creative artists to develop their craft and contribute to the vibrant performance industry.
Simona Jobbagy (NICA’s CEO) is a firm believer in the need to prepare well for your future.
“Many of our students choose NICA because they’re not looking for short-term success—they’re aiming for lasting careers in the circus arts. They want to build strong, high-quality performance skills and enter the industry with the confidence to thrive long term. Achieving that level of preparation requires time, dedication, and support. In today’s ever-changing job market, formal training also plays a crucial role in opening pathways to other career opportunities.”
National auditions for the Bachelor and Certificate IV programs will take place in Melbourne on the following dates: 22-23 and 24-25 September. Apply at www.nica.com.au/ed
NICA is a proud Arts8 training organisation, supported by the Australian Government through the Office for the Arts. Globally recognised as Australia’s Centre of Excellence in circus studies and the only provider of accredited tertiary circus education in the southern hemisphere, our programs are highly sought after both nationally and internationally.
