NIDA is closely associated with the University of New South Wales, but is not part of it. The Teaching Program consists of classes, workshops and seminars. The Play Production Program provides practical experience in producing plays, musicals, film and television. Students from all courses work collaboratively to design, manufacture, manage and perform productions for presentation to the general public. Students undertake studies in acting, voice and speech, movement, music, singing, history of theatre, audition techniques and professional practice for theatre, radio, film and television.
Students undertake subjects in the theory and practice of theatre and film design.
The course aims to produce graduates skilled in scene design and painting, costume design and cutting and the design of properties.