Whether you want to direct films, perform on stage, write scripts, or work behind the scenes bringing productions to life, studying film, TV and stage can help turn that passion into a career.
Here’s an overview of the types of courses you can explore, depending on where your interests lie.
Pictured above: Collarts screen and media students interning at the Melbourne International Film Festival
If you prefer to work off camera or backstage, there are plenty of creative and technical roles that make productions happen.
These courses focus on the skills needed to plan, shape and deliver professional productions, preparing you for real-world industry environments.
If you love storytelling, writing and creative leadership, writing and directing focuses on developing your voice as a filmmaker.
You’ll build skills in scriptwriting, character development and visual storytelling while learning how to direct performers and lead productions from concept through to performance.
This course equips you with hands-on skills in camera operation, editing, producing and content creation.
It’s ideal for aspiring filmmakers, producers and content creators looking to work across film, television, streaming and digital media.
Screen and Media alum Abbey experienced this firsthand with her internship with Melbourne International Film Festival through Collarts' industry partnership:
"Last year I was lucky enough to intern at the Melbourne International Film Festival. I worked within the operations and events team, and was able to expand my skill set in producing, event management, and stage management. My highlight of the festival was being the personal stage manager to Oscar nominated director Adam Elliot and Emmy winner Sarah Snook!"
Pictured above: Audio production alum Willow with her equipment
Stage management focuses on the organisation and leadership required to run successful live productions.
You’ll learn how to coordinate rehearsals, manage cast and crew, oversee technical elements and ensure performances run smoothly from start to finish.
Sound plays a huge role in film, television and live performance.
In Audio Production you’ll explore recording, mixing, sound design and post-production, developing the technical and creative skills needed to produce professional quality sound for screen and stage.
Recent Audio Production alum Willow, who has already worked with the likes of Amy Shark and Guy Sebastian, says:
"“I found my place in the world at Collarts, it helped me get the skills and the work experience that means I have a career in music, which I love and is a perfect fit.”
Pictured above: Collarts Acting students performing in an ensemble on stage.
If you’re drawn to performance and love connecting with audiences, this area focuses on building your confidence, technique and on-screen presence.
The Acting course develops your skills in voice, movement, character work and performance.
You’ll train in both theatre and on-camera acting, preparing you for roles across film, television, commercials and live productions.
One stellar example is Acting student Grace who has already scored a full-time professional acting job before even graduating! Grace says:
"Collarts has truly set me up for the future. Being mentored by very talented industry professionals and learning alongside people who share my passion has been inspiring and rewarding. I now feel confident pursuing a creative career!”
Some creatives want to perform, write and create their own work. If that sounds like you, there are courses that blend performance with content creation.
Collarts’ Comedy course is the only degree of its kind in Australia.
It combines comedy performance, scriptwriting and content creation for stage, screen and digital platforms. You’ll develop original material, refine your comedic voice and learn how to produce and perform your own work across a range of formats. Plus you'll get to perform at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival thanks to our industry partnership.
Comedy alum Razz says:
"I got to perform in a show at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival before I had even graduated [through Collarts' industry partnerships]. So much of my life finally got to be lived and experienced that the challenges didn’t matter because the teachers kept the momentum and energy going."
Pictured above: Collarts Comedy alum performing at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival
There’s no single pathway into film, TV or theatre.
The key is choosing a course that aligns with your strengths and interests, whether that’s technical production, storytelling, performance or sound.
Studying at a specialist creative institution like Collarts means learning from industry-experienced lecturers, working on hands-on projects and collaborating with other creatives. Instead of only focusing on theory, you’ll build a portfolio and professional network while you study.
If you’re researching film school options in Australia or wondering what to study after Year 12 if you love film, remember this: the industry needs directors, producers, technicians, writers, performers and creative leaders.
Your passion for film can become a career. The first step is choosing the right course and starting your journey.
EXPLORE FILM & THEATRE COURSES