This nationally recognised qualification is the second year of the vocational dance program at WAAPA. The course takes a holistic approach to the needs of the dancer of the future building the skills required for lifelong sustainability in the dance profession. The course encourages dancers' individuality, confidence, flair and creativity. Students take classes in ballet, repertoire, pointe, contemporary, choreography, performance, dance history, music and acting for dance. The course prepares the talented practitioner for the demands of work in mainstream dance companies in Australia and overseas by providing intense practical experience, both technical and stylistic, in classes and through performance opportunities. Graduates can apply and audition for, and pathway into the Bachelor of Dance.

Applicants apply directly to WAAPA.

Admission is based on an audition where the candidate demonstrates competence in at least one dance style at Diploma level.

Candidates entering this qualification could be expected to demonstrate dance expertise through extensive vocational experience or in grades achieved in different dance styles through dance societies that run examinations linked to certification levels.

The Advanced Diploma of Dance (Elite Performance) at WAAPA achieves 18 units from the Live Performance Training Package. The Training Package rules require the seven core units plus eleven elective units. At WAAPA these 18 units of competency are clustered within the course delivery units of Ballet, Contemporary, Pas de Deux/Duo, Performance, Anatomy, Choreography, Dance History, Music for Dance, Nutrition.