This page is updated when information changes, but it's always best to talk to your training provider to confirm course details before you enrol.
Overview
This qualification reflects the role of those who work in a range of screen and media industries, including animation, gaming and digital effects, specialist make-up services, film and television, radio and podcasting, lighting and sound, and content creation environments.
They apply technical and theoretical concepts in a broad range of contexts to undertake advanced skilled work. They will have technical and theoretical knowledge, with depth in some areas in a field of work.
The job roles that relate to this qualification may include director (film and television), technical director, master control operator, editor, content creator, sound designer, radio station manager, specialist make-up artist (creative), director of photography, instructional designer, editor (film and television), artistic director, production manager (film and television), lighting designer (productions), interface designer, special effects designer, animation designer, assistant film producer, information architect, lead animator, roto artist, compositor, compositing supervisor, motion graphics artist, editor, motion capture artist, 3D animator, 3D modeller, texture artist, concept artist.
Licensing, legislative, regulatory or certification considerations
National Standard for Licensing Persons Performing High Risk Work
The National Standard for Licensing Persons Performing High Risk Work applies to persons performing dogging and rigging work. Completion of the following units is required for certification at either basic, intermediate or advanced levels:
- CPCCLDG3001 Licence to perform dogging
- CPCCLRG3001 Licence to perform rigging basic level
- CPCCLRG3002 Licence to perform rigging intermediate level
- CPCCLRG4001 Licence to perform rigging advanced level.
National Code of Practice for Induction for Construction Work
Sets and staging for some performances or events may fall within the definition of construction work. If so, people entering the construction site are required to complete the general induction training program specified by the National Code of Practice for Induction Training for Construction Work (Australian Safety Compensation Council, May 2007). Achievement of the unit CPCCWHS1001 Prepare to work safely in the construction industry from the CPC Construction, Plumbing and Services Training Package fulfils this requirement.
Units of competency in qualification
Some individual units of competency may have their own licensing, legislative, regulatory or certification requirements. Users must check individual units of competency for licensing, legislative, regulatory or certification requirements relevant to that unit.
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Financial help
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Cost
Course costs can vary by provider and location. Ask your training provider for a cost estimate.
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VET Student Loans are available
See training providers offering VET Student Loans -
You may need to pay for equipment or materials.
To see how government funding could help to reduce the cost of your course, check your eligibility for funding.
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On-the-job training
- Apprenticeships and traineeships are not available for this course.
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Entry requirements
This course doesn't have any entry requirements. It could be a good starting point for your career.
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Duration
You complete this course when you’ve learned the skills, not after a set amount of time. The times shown are estimates.
- Qualification only:
1–2 years
- Qualification only:
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Delivery options
You may be able to access this training in these ways:
Course content
This course is made up of units.
All courses have core units—these are mandatory for completing the course. Most courses also have elective units, which you can choose from to suit your needs and interests. Not all training providers offer every elective, so check with your provider to find out which electives they can offer you.
For more information about course content, talk to your training provider or visit the National Training Register.
| Unit | Unit type |
|---|---|
| Enhance professional practice using creative arts industry knowledge | Core |
| Establish and maintain safe creative practice | Core |
| Provide freelance services | Core |
| Realise a creative project | Core |
| Apply digital texturing for the 3-D environment in digital games | Elective |
| Apply intermediate object-oriented language skills | Elective |
| Apply intermediate programming skills in different languages | Elective |
| Collaborate in creative processes | Elective |
| Communicate with the community | Elective |
| Compile music for soundtracks | Elective |
| Compile production schedules | Elective |
| Conduct discussion forums on-air | Elective |
| Conduct research | Elective |
| Contribute to managing work-related psychological health and safety | Elective |
| Coordinate hazardous action sequences | Elective |
| Coordinate props | Elective |
| Coordinate sound recording operations on location | Elective |
| Coordinate testing of interactive media products | Elective |
| Coordinate the logistics of special effects operations | Elective |
| Create 3D digital animations | Elective |
| Create 3D digital character animations | Elective |
| Create 3D digital environments | Elective |
| Create 3D digital models | Elective |
| Create a final sound balance | Elective |
| Create advanced 3D digital models | Elective |
| Create classic long hair up-styles | Elective |
| Create digital visual effects | Elective |
| Create special effects items | Elective |
| Create storyboards | Elective |
| Create titles for screen productions | Elective |
| Create user interfaces | Elective |
| Design and apply special make-up effects | Elective |
| Design and apply specialised make-up | Elective |
| Design digital applications | Elective |
| Design digital simulations | Elective |
| Design e-learning resources | Elective |
| Design games | Elective |
| Design information architecture | Elective |
| Design interactions | Elective |
| Design specifications for animation and digital visual effects | Elective |
| Design user interfaces | Elective |
| Design virtual and hybrid events | Elective |
| Design, apply and remove make-up | Elective |
| Develop and discuss ideas for own creative work | Elective |
| Develop and extend design skills and practice | Elective |
| Develop and implement own self-care plan in the creative industries | Elective |
| Develop and implement production work plans | Elective |
| Develop complex cascading style sheets | Elective |
| Develop content for publication | Elective |
| Develop nonfiction works for publication | Elective |
| Develop public relations campaigns | Elective |
| Develop social media engagement plans | Elective |
| Develop sound designs | Elective |
| Develop storylines and treatments | Elective |
| Develop sustainability of own professional practice | Elective |
| Develop, implement and monitor program schedules | Elective |
| Direct performers for screen productions | Elective |
| Direct rehearsals of performers | Elective |
| Direct television programs and segments | Elective |
| Edit complex media productions | Elective |
| Edit dialogue | Elective |
| Edit digital content for fast turnaround | Elective |
| Edit sound | Elective |
| Edit texts | Elective |
| Establish innovative work environments | Elective |
| Establish legal and risk management requirements of new business ventures | Elective |
| Extend expertise in specialist creative fields | Elective |
| Implement design solutions | Elective |
| Implement lighting designs | Elective |
| Implement sound designs | Elective |
| Incorporate and edit digital video | Elective |
| Interpret and respond to a design brief | Elective |
| Interpret and use legal information | Elective |
| Licence to perform dogging | Elective |
| Licence to perform rigging advanced level | Elective |
| Licence to perform rigging basic level | Elective |
| Licence to perform rigging intermediate level | Elective |
| Maintain and protect cultural values in the organisation | Elective |
| Maintain make-up and hair continuity | Elective |
| Make presentations | Elective |
| Manage and operate technical requirements for virtual and hybrid events | Elective |
| Manage budgets and financial plans | Elective |
| Manage copyright arrangements | Elective |
| Manage feedback on creative practice | Elective |
| Manage fundraising and sponsorship activities | Elective |
| Manage locations for media productions | Elective |
| Manage media assets | Elective |
| Manage project procurement | Elective |
| Manage project risk | Elective |
| Manage recruitment and onboarding | Elective |
| Manage safety aspects of screen productions | Elective |
| Manage team effectiveness | Elective |
| Negotiate contracts | Elective |
| Obtain revenue to support operations | Elective |
| Operate master control | Elective |
| Organise and facilitate rehearsals | Elective |
| Participate in organisational governance | Elective |
| Perform advanced editing tasks | Elective |
| Perform advanced writing tasks | Elective |
| Perform primary and secondary colour correction | Elective |
| Perform writing and editing tasks | Elective |
| Plan and conduct interviews | Elective |
| Plan finances for new business ventures | Elective |
| Prepare to work safely in the construction industry | Elective |
| Prepare to work with confronting material and processes in the creative industries | Elective |
| Produce programs and program segments | Elective |
| Produce sound recordings | Elective |
| Provide technical support during virtual and hybrid events | Elective |
| Pull focus | Elective |
| Realise productions | Elective |
| Record and document Community history | Elective |
| Record sound on location | Elective |
| Refine digital art techniques | Elective |
| Refine on-air presentation techniques | Elective |
| Repair and maintain broadcast equipment and facilities | Elective |
| Reproduce sound for post-production | Elective |
| Review and apply the constitution | Elective |
| Select and apply hair extensions | Elective |
| Set up and operate lighting cues and effects | Elective |
| Shoot different screen content | Elective |
| Shoot material for screen productions under special conditions | Elective |
| Shoot screen content in a multi-camera environment | Elective |
| Style hair for productions | Elective |
| Style wigs and hairpieces for productions | Elective |
| Undertake project work | Elective |
| Use casting and moulding techniques to make props | Elective |
| Vision mix productions | Elective |
| Write and apply scripting language in authoring | Elective |
| Write creative nonfiction material | Elective |
| Write extended stories | Elective |
| Write narration and material for productions | Elective |
| Write persuasive copy | Elective |
Job prospects
The Diploma of Screen and Media sets you up for roles like these, but the skills you learn could take you even further.
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Artistic Director
ANZSCO 212111
Artistic Directors determine and oversee implementation of artistic policies for performing arts organisations such as theatre companies, dance companies, music ensembles, festivals or venues.
Recommended education level:
Bachelor degree or higher -
Media Producer
ANZSCO 212112
Ensure that the production of media content runs smoothly; be the administrative lead during the production of entertainment, information or news and current affairs content.
Recommended education level:
Bachelor degree or higher -
Radio Presenter
ANZSCO 212113
Present radio programs related to news, sports or culture; conduct live or recorded interviews, introduce or curate music, commentate on current issues and compere special events.
Recommended education level:
Bachelor degree or higher -
Art Director (Film, Television or Stage)
ANZSCO 212311
Art Directors (Film, Television or Stage) plan, organise and control artistic aspects of film, television or stage productions.
Recommended education level:
Bachelor degree or higher -
Director (Film, Television, Radio or Stage)
ANZSCO 212312
Directors (Film, Television, Radio or Stage) interpret and approve selection of scripts, and direct and instruct cast and crew during filming, recording or performance of productions.
Recommended education level:
Bachelor degree or higher -
Cinematographer
ANZSCO 212313
Cinematographers plan, direct and coordinate filming to control the quality and style of photography in films or videos.
Recommended education level:
Bachelor degree or higher -
Film and Video Editor
ANZSCO 212314
Make and implement editorial decisions regarding mood, place and climax of films, television programs, video productions or commercials.
Recommended education level:
Bachelor degree or higher -
Program Director (Television or Radio)
ANZSCO 212315
Program Directors (Television or Radio) compile and direct programs for television or radio.
Recommended education level:
Bachelor degree or higher -
Stage Manager
ANZSCO 212316
Stage Managers plan, organise, supervise and coordinate the activities of workers responsible for placing sets and properties, and operating lighting and sound equipment as part of film, television or stage productions.
Recommended education level:
Bachelor degree or higher -
Technical Director
ANZSCO 212317
Technical Directors control the quality of pictures and sound for television or radio programs by directing technical teams and planning and organising technical facilities.
Recommended education level:
Bachelor degree or higher -
Video Producer
ANZSCO 212318
Video Producers create films, television programs, video productions or commercials by filming, adding sound and editing in digital or analogue format.
Recommended education level:
Bachelor degree or higher -
Other Film, Television, Radio and Stage Director
ANZSCO 212399
Other Film, Television, Radio and Stage Directors includes jobs like Audio Director, Casting Director, Lighting Director, and Location Manager (Film or Television).
Recommended education level:
Bachelor degree or higher -
Copywriter
ANZSCO 212411
Copywriters design and compose written material to advertise products and services.
Recommended education level:
Bachelor degree or higher -
Illustrator (including Animators)
ANZSCO 232412
Illustrators (including Animators) plan, design, develop, and prepare pictures and diagrams to communicate messages, clarify meaning, assist in presentations and illustrate stories, using traditional and digital media such as drawing, painting, drafting, collage, models, photography, and image capture and manipulation software.
Recommended education level:
Bachelor degree or higher -
Multimedia Designer
ANZSCO 232413
Multimedia Designers plan, design and develop the production of digitally delivered information, promotional content, instructional material and entertainment through online and recorded digital media using static and animated information, text, pictures, video and sound to produce information and entertainment tailored to an intended audience and purpose.
Recommended education level:
Bachelor degree or higher -
Web Administrator
ANZSCO 313113
Web Administrators design, build and maintain websites, and provide web technology solutions and services.
Recommended education level:
Diploma, Advanced Diploma or Associate Degree -
Other ICT Support Technician
ANZSCO 313199
Other ICT Support Technicians includes jobs like Applications Packager, Computer Systems Technician, and Telecommunications Computer Systems Technician.
Recommended education level:
Diploma, Advanced Diploma or Associate Degree -
Broadcast Transmitter Operator
ANZSCO 399511
Broadcast Transmitter Operators operate consoles to control radio or television broadcast transmitters.
Recommended education level:
Certificate III or IV -
Camera Operator (Film, Television or Video)
ANZSCO 399512
Camera Operators (Film, Television or Video) set up and operate cameras to photograph scenes for film, television or video productions.
Recommended education level:
Certificate III or IV -
Light Technician
ANZSCO 399513
Light Technicians position and control lighting equipment for film, television or video productions or stage performances.
Recommended education level:
Certificate III or IV -
Make Up Artist
ANZSCO 399514
Make Up Artists design and apply make up to actors, presenters and other performing artists.
Recommended education level:
Certificate III or IV -
Musical Instrument Maker and Repairer
ANZSCO 399515
Musical Instrument Makers or Repairers build, repair and restore musical instruments, and modify and tune them to owners' specifications.
Recommended education level:
Certificate III or IV -
Sound Technician
ANZSCO 399516
Sound Technicians operate audio equipment to record, enhance, mix and amplify sound in support of television, radio, film or video productions, or stage performances.
Recommended education level:
Certificate III or IV -
Television Equipment Operator
ANZSCO 399517
Television Equipment Operators operate television equipment to record, edit, mix and prepare material for broadcast.
Recommended education level:
Certificate III or IV -
Other Performing Arts Technician
ANZSCO 399599
Other Performing Arts Technicians includes jobs like Continuity Person, Microphone Boom Operator, Performing Arts Road Manager, Special Effects Person, and Theatrical Dresser.
Recommended education level:
Certificate III or IV
Training providers delivering Diploma of Screen and Media
It's a good idea to research multiple training providers to make sure you're getting the right training for you.
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TAFE QUEENSLAND (RTO code 0275)
Government funding
- Skills Assure Supplier
Contact this provider
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Australian Institute of Advanced Studies (RTO code 40730)
Government funding
- Skills Assure Supplier
Contact this provider
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Demi International (RTO code 32542)
Government funding
- Skills Assure Supplier
Contact this provider
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AUSMUSIC LTD (RTO code 0109)
Contact this provider
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AUSTRALIAN CHARIS COLLEGE (RTO code 40892)
Contact this provider
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Australian City Design College (RTO code 45353)
Contact this provider
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Australian College of Make Up and Special Effects (RTO code 90910)
Contact this provider
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Colour Cosmetica Academy Pty Ltd (RTO code 40055)
Contact this provider
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Community Media Training Organisation (RTO code 91800)
Contact this provider
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Contour Systems Pty Ltd (RTO code 90504)
Contact this provider
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GORGEOUS COSMETICS (RTO code 21399)
Contact this provider
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Headmasters Advanced Academy Training (RTO code 4639)
Contact this provider
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INSTITUTE OF MAKEUP ARTISTRY (RTO code 45423)
Contact this provider
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International College of Queensland (RTO code 1749)
Contact this provider
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International Screen Academy (RTO code 40725)
Contact this provider
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LATROBE COLLEGE OF ART & DESIGN (RTO code 22248)
Contact this provider
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LEXIS TESOL TRAINING CENTRES (RTO code 41178)
Contact this provider
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Queensland School of Film & Television (RTO code 32265)
Contact this provider
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RICH GAMING ACADEMY (RTO code 6537)
Contact this provider
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Skills Strategies International (RTO code 2401)
Contact this provider
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TAFE NSW (RTO code 90003)
Contact this provider
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The Academy of Interactive Entertainment Ltd (RTO code 88021)
Contact this provider
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The Australian Academy of Cinemagraphic Makeup (RTO code 31527)
Contact this provider
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The Australian Academy of Media (RTO code 45017)
Contact this provider
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THE MAKEUP TECHNICIANS PTY LTD (RTO code 40774)
Contact this provider
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The National Institute of Dramatic Art (RTO code 90349)
Contact this provider
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WIN College (RTO code 91175)
Contact this provider
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Workright Australia (RTO code 0366)
Contact this provider
How to enrol in this course
To enrol, choose a training provider that offers this course. You can see provider details on this page.
When you find one that you think suits you, visit their website or contact them directly to confirm details like start dates, fees, funding, delivery locations and delivery options.
The provider will guide you through the enrolment process.
How do apprenticeships and traineeships work?
Apprenticeships and traineeships let you combine hands-on work experience with training. You’ll gain job-ready skills and earn an income while you complete a qualification.
As an apprentice or a trainee, you work with an employer while completing your training. Most of your time is spent learning on the job, with some classroom or online training to support the skills you're developing in the workplace.
For some jobs, you may need to do an apprenticeship or traineeship before you are allowed to work as a qualified tradesperson. For example, you need to do an apprenticeship if you want to work as a licensed electrician.
Find out more about apprenticeships and traineeships.
See more information about the apprenticeship or traineeship you’re interested in pursuing on the Queensland Training Information Service.
How long will this course take?
This course is competency-based training, which means you progress as you demonstrate your skills and knowledge, rather than in a set amount of time.
The duration shown here is an estimate for full-time study based on how long most people take to complete the course. You may finish earlier than other people, or it may take you a bit longer.
If you’ve already completed training or have worked in a relevant area, you could get credits or recognition of prior learning. This can reduce the training you need to complete a qualification, which could reduce the time needed for training.
Duration for apprenticeships and traineeships
Apprenticeships and traineeships take longer than doing the qualification on its own, but you learn valuable hands-on skills.
For some jobs, you may need to do an apprenticeship or traineeship before you are allowed to work as a qualified tradesperson. For example, you need to do an apprenticeship if you want to work as a licensed electrician.
Learn about how courses are delivered
Different courses have different delivery options. Consider your needs when you’re researching courses. Some courses may be delivered entirely online or partially online. Others may be delivered in a classroom.
Some courses, like those delivered through apprenticeships and traineeships, are mostly based in the workplace but with some classroom or online study.
If a certain type of delivery is important to you, talk to your provider before you enrol to make sure they offer that delivery option.
How to reduce the cost of your course
There are lots of ways you can reduce the cost of your course.
- The government could partly or fully cover the cost of your course. See information about financial help and government funding on this page.
- The government also offers funding for some costs related to your course.
- If you’ve already completed training or have worked in a relevant area, you could get a cost credit or recognition of prior learning. This can reduce the training you need to complete a qualification, which could reduce the cost.
Learn about financial help and government funding
The main cost of training is usually the course fees, which vary depending on things like which course and training provider you choose.
You may be able to get your training for free or at a reduced cost, or you could get help with paying for training-related costs. You can also pay for some courses with a VET Student Loan.
Find out more about getting help paying for your training or check if you're eligible.
What are entry requirements?
Some courses have conditions you need to meet before you can enrol in the course. They help make sure you have the right background or skills for the training.
Entry requirements might include a certain education level, skills or knowledge, work status, or experience.