Higher Education

Start Date: Duration: Level: Study mode: Course Location: Course Type:
September 2 Years Level 6 Full-Time Bede Campus University Level Qualification Apply Enquire

What’s it all about?

Expand your creative horizons with a course designed to refine and expand your talents as a performer, director, or creator in the dynamic world of performing arts. You’ll explore acting, singing, and movement in depth, while discovering your own unique voice in theatre and dance. Through practical workshops, performances, and collaborative projects, you’ll gain hands-on experience that mirrors real-world industry demands. Modules such as directing, classical theatre, and professional networking will enhance your expertise and confidence, preparing you for a career in this competitive field. With opportunities to connect with industry professionals and showcase your work publicly, you’ll graduate equipped with the skills, knowledge, and portfolio to thrive as a versatile artist. Whether you’re envisioning a future on stage, in education, or within the wider arts industry, this course empowers you to achieve your ambitions with creativity and professionalism.

A previous qualification up to level 5 is required, such as a Foundation Degree, HND, or equivalent.

All candidates will be interviewed and auditioned prior to an offer being made.

Here’s how to apply depending on your plans:

• If you’re applying to multiple Higher Education providers, submit your application through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) by the specified deadline for the relevant recruitment cycle. This ensures your application reaches all your chosen institutions efficiently.
• If this College is your only choice, you can begin the process by selecting the “Apply” button at the top of this course page, which will take you to the online application form for a simple and direct experience.
• For detailed information on UCAS applications and deadlines, https://www.ucas.com/applying .

Study level Cost Additional fees
HE Please enquire You may choose to purchase books from the recommended reading lists. Additionally, you will be expected to provide your own pens, paper, and folders. Students will be expected to fund field trips and master classes throughout their time on the course, some of these will be mandatory and some optional. The cost of these experiences will vary. Mandatory trip costs will not exceed approximately £200 per year.

Students on the course benefit from extensive academic support and pastoral care, with a focus on the individual aspirations and the needs of every student. This will be assured through a range of teaching strategies and engagement opportunities.
Teaching on modules is active and learning will be done in a supportive studio/classroom space, with clear intent and progression, delivered by an experienced teaching team. All sessions aim to enhance knowledge, skills and behaviours for lifelong learning. Methods used will encourage both independent and collaborative learning through use of:
• Practical workshops/rehearsals
• Interactive lectures
• Group seminars
• Resource-based Learning
• Self-directed study and group work
• Tutorials
Each module seeks to include engagement outside of the classroom and within the community; acknowledging that networking should be a consistent factor throughout your learning journey. There will be course related companies and practitioners that you will work alongside. In addition to this, attendance of performances and residences will be used to broaden learners’ concepts and practice.
Assessments are contextualised and carefully sequenced to allow for the continual progression of students via a ‘feed forward’ approach that challenges students to consistently set and maintain high standards. Verbal and written formative feedback are given at regular intervals. Assessment methods differ depending on the module however typical assessment methods used may include practical demonstrations and presentations, portfolios, viva-voces, performances, events, reflective journals/online blogs, essays and evaluations.

Individual or group projects for each unit will always culminate in public performance (when achievable). During your time studying with us, you will be introduced to numerous industry professionals and given the opportunity to have your work seen across numerous platforms including internal/external venues.

We have several links to industry; including partnerships to provide an outstanding learning experience and ensure you are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to progress to a career in industry.

These include regional performance/dance companies and industry practitioners as well as external performance venues that align with our in-module projects.

The aim is to nurture confident, versatile performers ready to excel in the ever-evolving performing arts industry. By honing your skills in acting, singing, and movement, alongside exploring playwriting, directing, and devising, you’ll develop a robust and adaptable skillset. This course fosters creativity, pushing boundaries to help you discover hidden talents and refine your craft. With a focus on industry expectations, you’ll gain the expertise to stand out, whether as a performer, creator, or practitioner. The ultimate goal is to empower you to succeed in your chosen path, armed with the confidence and knowledge to make a lasting impact.

You will study the following modules:
- Directing for Theatre: Vision and Action (20 credits)
- Classical Theatre: In Practice (20 credits)
- Performing Arts Industry: Self-Promotion and Networking (20 credits)
- Final Performance: Embodying Character (20 credits)
- Independent Project: Study and Practice (40 credits)

What’s next?

Graduates are well-prepared to pursue careers in performing, teaching, arts administration, or community arts, with the skills and experience to thrive in a competitive industry. Many may choose to build on their expertise through further academic study, such as a Master’s degree, or by gaining teaching qualifications to share their passion with others. With a strong portfolio and professional connections developed during their studies, opportunities in the performing arts industry are within reach, whether on stage, behind the scenes, or in creative leadership roles. The versatility gained ensures a dynamic and fulfilling future in the arts.

Validated by the University of Cumbria

This is a Higher Education course with Sunderland College and is validated by the University of Cumbria.

Visit the University of Cumbria website here.

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93% of our students have progressed to employment, university or further study

(*Destination data, all students, 2023-24)

Why choose Sunderland College?

Rated Outstanding in all areas by Ofsted

NSS, 2024

94% Overall pass rate for T Levels

2022-23

Top performing college group in the North East for student achievement

NARTS, 16-18 Students, 2024

We have International award winning Immersive Spaces at both Bede and City Campus