History & Values

Imagination lights paths to new opportunities. 

Purposeful creativity ignites the innovation needed for a flourishing economy. Curiosity and playfulness are essential for solving complex problems. Artists, performers, makers and creators are catalysts for social progress and environmental stewardship. We will take risks together to fashion new worlds.

Championing a culture of creativity is life at Collarts.

You’re welcome here: be yourself – we like it that way.

Safety enables inclusion and diversity drives innovation. We’re serious about models of teamwork and leadership that are culturally responsive and anchored in the unique contributions of marginalised identities. Inclusion is our ambition, and we work hard to ensure everyone participates with pride.

We’re diverse by nature and inclusive by choice. Difference delivers results.

Storytelling is our superpower: we create new worlds. 

Too few voices have told the world’s stories. We weave lived experiences into fresh thinking that sparks our collective imagination for better futures. Whether it’s sounds or songs, written or spoken words, textiles or interiors, moving or still imagery, we commit to the liberation of diverse narratives, to new voices.

Stories create understanding. Storytelling unites us.

We don’t just dream it. We bring it to life and use it for good. 

Art is activism in pursuit of social change. Every social movement galvanises action through song, story, images. When we match passion with talent and networks, we can transform cultural and social institutions. Creative education powers up our ability to influence and makes a profound impact and legacy.

Collective power and unrestricted imaginations. Creativity on purpose.

Our student-centred thinking is exemplary. Our small classes, boutique campuses and online communities mean you are seen, known and cared for. You are part of an amazing community where you can explore cross-disciplinary practices and networks. We have a strong commitment to inclusion, and we believe difference is powerful and necessary for creativity. We are learning together how to make education accessible. We are proud of our student engagement results.

Our students say finding Collarts is finding home.

Our staff are outstanding. You will be taught by industry leaders who have worked with the world’s best fashion houses and music acts, produced award-winning albums, managed Australia’s best-known events, and created content for the world’s leading media outlets. Our teachers are leading thinkers in cutting edge technology and sustainable work practices – academics who are changing the shape of their industries for the better. You’ll meet sought-after filmmakers, actors, directors, animators, designers, photographers and writers.

Our students say our teachers accelerate their careers.

Our courses are specialised, and you’ll be immersed in your profession from the very start. Whether you’re studying online or on campus, you will be in small classes learning from the best in industry with access to leading technologies, equipment and resources. You will have opportunities to work at music festivals, recording studios, radio stations, and with brands and organisations at the forefront of contemporary culture. You’ll leave with more than a qualification – you’ll have a professional network and connections for life.

Our students say that Collarts opens doors for them.

Our courses are arranged to suit you. If you’re on-campus, you’ll study your degree in trimesters, which means we divide the year into three study periods (called trimesters) instead of two (semesters) like most universities. Because of this trimester structure, you can study 4 units per trimester and graduate with a degree after just two years of study. You can also study some of our units and courses online, fitting in with your work and life commitments.

Our students say that we’re flexible.

Our campuses are in the heart of the creative capital of Australia. We have a uniquely Melbourne feel – from the schools we engage with to the festivals we partner with. We’ve got a tonne of Melbourne cool. You will learn at four incredible inner-city campuses, located in Collingwood and Fitzroy, in recording studios or sewing rooms or photography studios or black box theatres or sound stages or mixing booths. And if you study online, you will still have access to all of our industry know-how, and you’re welcome on site with us at any time.

Our students say they never want to leave!

Our partnerships set us apart. We have friends across the creative industries in Victoria and beyond. Our long-term relationships with Melbourne Fashion Week and the Melbourne International Film Festival provide you with internships and exposure, building your networks. All our industry partners are passionate about fostering the next generation of creatives and provide you with hands-on experience. Step into Collarts and you step onto stage, onto set, into the agency, into the studio.

Our students say they have access all areas.

At Collarts, you are empowered to achieve your learning and creative aspirations and transition to your chosen industry. We teach with authenticity, with insight and with heart. 

• Authenticity: We network with industry and peers, we promote active learning, and our teachers are experts, modelling passion and expertise. 
• Insight: We teach you how to reflect, we create challenging and engaging experiences, and we embed feedback, critique and discussion. 
• Heart: We are person-centred, teaching people not units. We are respectful and inclusive, and we create safety, trust and support. 

Our students say they grow with us. 

Play, have fun, try new things, experiment, adapt and learn. Accept ambiguity and uncertainty. Embrace nuance and complexity. Ask questions and be open-minded.

Get to know people, be gentle and respectful. Ask for help and help others. Be generous, humble and compassionate. Make kindness the currency of authentic relationships.

Share information freely, listen deeply and be honest. Invite people in. Build trust. Find collaborators who yearn for the same things. Have faith in the power of the team. 

Take risks. Be ambitious and determined. Find your voice: speak up and be vulnerable. Persevere. Practise progress over perfection. Make failure a step towards success. 

Immerse in the creative process. Find your thing: show grit in the face of struggle. Hone your craft and artistry. Challenge yourself in the relentless pursuit of excellence.