Programme summary for MA Acting

About the programme

This programme offers a unique postgraduate programme combining academic study in performance with a practice-based approach to performance. In collaboration with the MA Theatre Directing programme, you will produce and perform a range of work while undergoing a professional programme in actor training.

Programme structure

The MA Acting is offered both full- and part-time. Teaching is usually in the evenings and on occasional Saturdays.

Students take one or two modules a semester and there is a dissertation project to be taken over the final semester.

MA Acting students work in close collaboration with the MA Theatre Directing students throughout their programme.

Career opportunities

This programme will equip you with the theoretical knowledge and the practical skills required to work as an actor for the stage. You will be provided with the means to both produce your own work as well as find work in the wider arena through the involvement of working professionals. Final degree shows will act as a showcase for you to gain agents and develop your networks further.

You will be assigned your own professional mentor to help you build a personal network in the profession following your graduation. In addition, the Staging Performance module is mentored by a theatre company, which provides you with access to entry-level ways of performing your own work and an understanding of the funding system for the arts in general.

Support

The programme leader and other staff teaching on this programme will provide academic guidance and supervision throughout the period of study. Advice will be available from administrative staff in the School and the University on accommodation, finance, etc. Pre-sessional and sessional language support may be provided where necessary. Students will have access to the University library and facilities.

All students will be offered a professional mentor to guide them through their studies and onto the next phase of their career development.

Admission

Admission to the programme is by audition and interview. Graduates are usually expected to have gained a 2:1 in their undergraduate degree. Special provision is made for the interviewing of international students who are unable to come to the UK for an audition or interview. All international students will be required to have an IELTS score of 7 with an average of 6 in all sectors.