- Undergraduate
Acting (Performance) BA (Hons)
Overview
Why study at UWL?
- Our dance and drama courses are ranked 2nd in the UK out of 85 institutes, in the Guardian's University Guide 2023
- In the top 30% of universities nationwide - The Guardian University Guide 2024
- University of the Year for Social Inclusion - Daily Mail University Guide 2024
- Best university for Student Experience and Teaching Quality in the UK - The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024
- Number 1 London university (non-specialist) - National Student Survey 2023**
Why study this course?
Learn how to become an imaginative, well-rounded actor on this innovative course that combines creative practice, critical thinking, and social enterprise to help you develop a distinct artistic vision and skillset for your entry into the performing arts and related industries.
Taught through practice, you will explore twenty-first-century acting techniques and a wide range of creative and critical approaches that will prepare you to become a multi-skilled, initiative-taking theatre-maker.
This course integrates technology with performance, equipping you with the skills and knowledge to join the industry in the twenty-first century.
Flexibility is built into the course to enable you to personalise your artistic development and become the creative practitioner you wish to be!
Select your desired study option, then pick a start date to see relevant course information:
Start date:
If your desired start date is not available, try selecting a different study option.
Why study Acting (Performance) with us?
What our students say…
Course detail & modules
As part of the course, you will undertake the LLCM in acting or teaching. The course combines skills-based workshops and practical projects putting you at the centre of your artistic development.
You will investigate established and new texts as well as performance practices from around the world in an inclusive way. You will work with solo and ensemble performance.
From scripted to devised work, holistically and intensively developing your skills as an actor and theatre maker. You will also learn to market yourself and future theatre companies.
Dialogue between students, industry and academia is essential to the course, and we will facilitate the development of creative partnerships both within and outside of the University in order to create new knowledge, produce new work and generate career opportunities.
Facilities
During your course, you will have access to flexible performance spaces with lighting and sound equipment, a dance studio and rehearsal rooms, and professional theatre venues beyond the university. See our facilities page to find out more.
Compulsory modules
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Acting: Preparing for Text
This module being taught alongside Introducing the Actor’s Instrument, will introduce you to the art of storytelling, both live and through introductory screen acting classes.
You will explore a variety of approaches to developing and performing stories. Through practical exercises, you will experiment with form, ritual, and narrative. The emphasis in this module will be on the actor’s role in storytelling, focusing on nonverbal behaviour and ensemble working in both live and recorded mediums. -
Introducing the Actor’s Instrument
This module introduces you to voice and movement work as actors, exploring the role of the voice and body in creative storytelling focusing is on self-discovery and growth.
Tutors will support you in identifying less efficient vocal and physical habits. You will learn exercises to support flexibility and range within this. Additionally, this module focuses on removing blocks, confidence-building, and team-work. You will learn more about collaboration techniques, and inclusive practices, and put these into action in your creative storytelling assessment.
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Devised Performance Project
In this module, you will work with other members of your group and a professional theatre director to create original performance material, drawing on a range of practical disciplines and also incorporating global storytelling practices; drawing from culturally diverse material.
Alongside your rehearsals for the devised work, you will participate in classes to develop your acting, voice and movement skills which will help you to build and develop your performance for assessment. You will also explore the models of working in an ensemble, experimenting with how leadership, collaboration and a focus on diversity can be balanced to create the most supportive and fertile working environment in the pursuit of original performance material.
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Acting: Performing Identity
In this module you’ll begin to explore character creation, working with both stage and screen approaches. We’ll be working on intercultural approaches to building character here, considering the ethics involved in creating and performing a character, and how to take on and release a character performance safely.
You will have the opportunity to work on a range of contemporary text, written for both stage and screen. We’ll begin by working on characters ‘closer’ to the self (in terms of age and context) and then build away from the self toward more challenging characters and circumstances. This module supports your work on the Responding to Text project which follows.
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Developing the Actor’s Instrument
This module continues the work of the Introducing the Actor’s Instrument module in semester one. The focus here will be on character creation and in developing the ability to respond in character to the given circumstances, vocally and physically.
It continues the focus on inclusive working practices, team-building and collaboration. In this module you will additionally be supported in reflecting on your practice, and identifying how you might improve less efficient habits.
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Responding to Text
You will be learning about adaptation in this module. In the first half you’ll work on a core play, such as A Doll’s House by Henrick Ibsen, exploring different adaptations of the text and how to make a play relevant today.
During each session there will be opportunities to perform and verbal feedback will be given continuously during this process. In the second half, you will be working in smaller groups on a section of the play which you will adapt for the assessment. You will also be working on a short film project which will complement your live performance. You will continue to develop skills-based training within the project module with regular classes in acting, voice, and movement training delivered alongside your rehearsals.
Compulsory modules
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Acting: From Method to Embodiment
Having looked at storytelling and then at creating character, in this module we ask, how does the actor embody emotion in performance?
We will explore a variety of approaches from different practitioners, but broadly tracing a line from American Method Acting to more current (and embodied) approaches to emotion and performance. Within this, we’ll look critically at the development of these different tools and ask which ones best support each of us as individuals. The module will have a screen acting focus.
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Creative Enterprise
This module introduces you to different pathways within the industry to supplement your actor training and support you in becoming proactive creative entrepreneurs.
You will take classes in multiple additional industry roles which might include: writing, directing, producing, or casting. You will be encouraged to critically reflect upon current industry practices, commercial procedures, and the role of creativity and inclusivity within this.
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Embodying the Actor’s Instrument
In this integrated voice and movement module you will learn techniques which complement ‘Acting: From Method to Embodiment’ by looking at the embodied actor in the context of heritage and culture. You will begin by examining your own identity position vocally and physically, and then develop this to adopt an accent and physicality dissimilar to yourself.
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The Actor as Creator
In this integrated acting, voice and movement module you will learn techniques which complement your ‘Performing with Technology’ and ‘Curating Performance’ modules in Level 6.
You will be focusing on adapting your performance skills to the space or medium, which may include screen, stage, motion capture, and /or audio acting.
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Project: Performing Language and Text
In this module you’ll have the opportunity to work on a range of performance styles which may include working on lyrical writing, such as Kae Tempest, comedic performance such as farce or sitcom, non-naturalist styles like epic theatre or absurdism, or other performance styles.
This will be led in part by the director and teaching team, but you will also have the opportunity to introduce performance styles to the group by bringing in work you would like to explore.
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Practice Research: Documentary Performance
This module introduces you to research methods and performance as research, supporting you as you progress to your research project in level 6.
Critical theories introduced in your ‘Creative Enterprise’ module will be strengthened and complementary research methodologies introduced through practical explorations. Additionally, you will be guided to explore documentary styles of performance, such as verbatim theatre or autobiographical theatre using multimedia.
Compulsory modules
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Performing with Technology
In this module you will create audio and film clips and edit these into your own voice reel and showreel to use as key marketing tools in the industry.
To create these pieces, you will need to identify your casting type and USP and find text to showcase this.
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Practice Research: Curating Performance
In this module, you will work in small groups to create and perform a small-scale performance piece, which may be presented in any / multiple medium(s).
This will be showcased at LCM Fest for a public audience. The module will be divided into a period of pre-production research and then a period of development where you will be assisted by a professional director who will support you in establishing the most appropriate approach to creating this production.
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Entering the Industry
This module supports you in understanding how to navigate your career after graduation. It will involve a series of taught sessions where the module tutor(s) and /or industry experts will lead practical workshops and seminar-style learning on key industry practices, such as: auditioning (live and recorded), networking, approaching agents and casting directors, choosing the ‘right’ agent, as well as online marketing, and completing tax returns.
We will interrogate what it means to be a self-employed actor today and consider how one might actively forward one’s own career. This module culminates in a public showcasing of work for invited industry guests.
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Production: Existing Repertoire
You will perform in a full-length public production, following industry standards, with an external director.
You will audition for the production and proceed through a full rehearsal process before opening the production to a public audience, giving you a full experience of how this process would work professionally. This will also act as a further opportunity to showcase your work to the industry, as well as friends and family
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Mastering the Actor’s Instrument
In this integrated voice and movement module you will learn techniques which complement ‘Entering the Industry’ by looking at the embodied actor in the profession.
This will involve continued work in voice and movement disciplines, in addition to masterclasses on intimacy training and stage combat. You will also receive holistic training in de-roling practices, managing rejection, and mental health management to best support you moving into the industry.
Entry requirements
These can include:
- A Levels at grade B, B and B, or above
- BTEC Extended Diploma with Distinction, Distinction, Merit
- Access to HE Diploma
- T Levels
You also need GCSE English and Maths (grade 9 – 4 / A* - C) or Level 2 equivalents.
Mandatory Audition
Your suitability will be determined through a mandatory audition which you will be required to attend. The audition will be informal and will also include a relaxed interview.
For advice and tips on auditioning for drama and music courses, check out this vlog by a London College of Music student. Please direct questions about admissions to Alex Loveless (alex.loveless@uwl.ac.uk).
Looking for BA (Hons) Acting (Performance) with Foundation Year?
Mature applicants (aged 21+): If you do not hold the qualifications listed but have relevant work experience, you are welcome to apply. Your application will be considered on an individual basis.
Level 5 (year 2) entry
To directly enter the second year of this course you will need to show appropriate knowledge and experience. For example, you are an ideal candidate if you have 120 undergraduate credits at Level 4 or a CertHE in a related subject area.
Level 6 (year 3) entry
To directly enter the third year of this course you need to show appropriate knowledge and experience. For example, you are an ideal candidate if you have 240 undergraduate credits (at Levels 4 and 5), a DipHE, Foundation Degree or HND in a related subject area.
Looking for BA (Hons) Acting (Performance) with Foundation Year?
You need to meet our English language requirement - a minimum of IELTS 5.5 for each of the 4 individual components (Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening). Visit our English language requirements page for information on other English language tests we accept.
You also need academic qualifications at the same level as UK applicants. In some countries where teaching is in English, we may accept local qualifications. Check for local equivalents.
We offer pre-sessional English language courses if you do not meet these requirements.
Looking for BA (Hons) Acting (Performance) with Foundation Year?
Mature applicants (aged 21+): If you do not hold the qualifications listed but have relevant work experience, you are welcome to apply. Your application will be considered on an individual basis.
Level 5 (year 2) entry
To directly enter the second year of this course you will need to show appropriate knowledge and experience. For example, you are an ideal candidate if you have 120 undergraduate credits at Level 4 or a CertHE in a related subject area.
Level 6 (year 3) entry
To directly enter the third year of this course you need to show appropriate knowledge and experience. For example, you are an ideal candidate if you have 240 undergraduate credits (at Levels 4 and 5), a DipHE, Foundation Degree or HND in a related subject area.
Looking for BA (Hons) Acting (Performance) with Foundation Year?
Fees & funding
The fee above is the cost per year of your course.
If your course runs for two years or more, you will need to pay the fee for each academic year at the start of that year. If your course runs for less than two years, the cost above is for your full course and you will need to pay the full fee upfront.
Government regulation does affect tuition fees and the fees listed for courses starting in the 2025/26 academic year are subject to change.
If no fee is shown above then the fees for this course are not available yet. Please check again later for updates.
Funding your studies
You may be eligible for a student loan to cover the cost of tuition fees, or a maintenance loan. Additional funding is available to some types of students, such as those with dependants and disabled students.
We offer generous bursaries and scholarships to make sure your aspirations are your only limit. In recent years, hundreds of students have received our Full-time Undergraduate Student Bursary.
Additional scholarships for Music, Performance Arts, Acting etc are also on offer.
View full details, including conditions and eligibility.
The fee above is the cost per year of your course.
If your course runs for two years or more, you will need to pay the fee for each academic year at the start of that year. If your course runs for less than two years, the cost above is for your full course and you will need to pay the full fee upfront.
Government regulation does affect tuition fees and the fees listed for courses starting in the 2025/26 academic year are subject to change.
If no fee is shown above then the fees for this course are not available yet. Please check again later for updates.
International students - funding your studies
We offer scholarships for international students including International Ambassador Scholarships.
Further information about funding and financial support for international students is available from the UK Council for International Student Affairs.
Teaching staff
Dr Isla Hall
I have a strong teaching background in Stanislavski, Shakespeare, Pinter, and cognitive, embodied actor training methods. My teaching style is holistic and inclusive; I ensure the learning experience is student-centred. In class, I actively work to create a safe space for students to experiment and make discoveries.
Courses taught:
- BA (Hons) Acting
- BA (Hons) Actor Musicianship
- MA Acting and Theatre Making
I have a strong teaching background in Stanislavski, Shakespeare, Pinter, and cognitive, embodied actor training methods. My teaching style is holistic and inclusive; I ensure the learning experience is student-centred. In class, I actively work to create a safe space for students to experiment and make discoveries.
Courses taught:
- BA (Hons) Acting
- BA (Hons) Actor Musicianship
- MA Acting and Theatre Making
Study & career progression
Upon graduating with your acting degree, you will be ideally set to develop a career in a variety of fields including:
- actor
- director
- playwright
- theatre-maker
- dramaturg
- creative producer
- arts administrator
- teacher
Past UWL graduates have gone on to appear in television shows including Eastenders (BBC), For Black Boys Who Have Considered Suicide When The Hue Gets Too Heavy (West End), It’s A Sin (Channel 4) and many more.
You can also go pursue further study at a postgraduate level. See our LCM courses.
How to apply
Head to the UCAS website where you can apply using:
- our institution code - W05
- the UCAS course code (below)
Want to ask us a question first? We would love to hear from you. Contact us free on:
- 0800 036 8888
- courses@uwl.ac.uk
We may invite you to an audition and interview at the university. Find out more about the audition process and what happens on the day.
Apply for this course
- Institution code
- W05
- UCAS code
- currentVariantData.field_p_cv_ucas_code
Next steps after making your application
We aim to make a decision on your application as quickly as we can. If we need any more information about your qualifications, we will be in touch.
In the meantime, come and visit us and find out more about what studying at UWL is like. Sign up for an open day or join a campus tour.
Visit us and see for yourself
Talk to our tutors and find out about our courses and facilities at our next open day or join a campus tour.
Our prospectus
All of our courses in one place - download now or order a hard copy.
We're here to help
Any questions about a course or studying at UWL? We're here to help - call us on 0800 036 8888 (option 2, Monday – Friday 10am-4pm) or email us on courses@uwl.ac.uk.
Head to the UCAS website where you can apply using:
- our institution code - W05
- the UCAS course code (below)
Want to ask us a question first? We would love to hear from you. Contact us free on:
- 0800 036 8888
- courses@uwl.ac.uk
We may invite you to an audition and interview at the university. Find out more about the audition process and what happens on the day.
Apply for this course
- Institution code
- W05
- UCAS code
- currentVariantData.field_p_cv_ucas_code
Next steps after making your application
We aim to make a decision on your application as quickly as we can. If we need any more information about your qualifications, we will be in touch.
In the meantime, come and visit us and find out more about what studying at UWL is like. Sign up for an open day or join a campus tour.
Visit us and see for yourself
Talk to our tutors and find out about our courses and facilities at our next open day or join a campus tour.
Our prospectus
All of our courses in one place - download now or order a hard copy.
We're here to help
Any questions about a course or studying at UWL? We're here to help - call us on 0800 036 8888 (option 2, Monday – Friday 10am-4pm) or email us on courses@uwl.ac.uk.
You can apply to us in two ways:
- on the UCAS website – you will need our institution code (W05) and the UCAS course code (at the top of this page)
- directly on our website – follow the ‘apply now’ link below
Want to ask us a question first? Our dedicated international students’ team would love to hear from you.
- Contact the team: international@uwl.ac.uk
We may invite you to an audition and interview at the university - or online, if you aren't able to travel here. Find out more about the audition process.
Apply for this course
Next steps after making your application
We aim to make a decision on your application as quickly as we can. If we need any more information about your qualifications, we will be in touch.
In the meantime, come and visit us and find out more about what studying at UWL is like. Sign up for an open day or join a campus tour.
Visit us and see for yourself
Talk to our tutors and find out about our courses and facilities at our next open day or join a campus tour.
Our prospectus
All of our courses in one place - download now or order a hard copy.
We're here to help
Any questions about a course or studying at UWL? We're here to help - call us on 0800 036 8888 (option 2, Monday – Friday 10am-4pm) or email us on courses@uwl.ac.uk.
You can apply to us in two ways:
- on the UCAS website – you will need our institution code (W05) and the UCAS course code (at the top of this page)
- directly on our website – follow the ‘apply now’ link below
Want to ask us a question first? Our dedicated international students’ team would love to hear from you.
- Contact the team: international@uwl.ac.uk
We may invite you to an audition and interview at the university - or online, if you aren't able to travel here. Find out more about the audition process.
Apply for this course
Next steps after making your application
We aim to make a decision on your application as quickly as we can. If we need any more information about your qualifications, we will be in touch.
In the meantime, come and visit us and find out more about what studying at UWL is like. Sign up for an open day or join a campus tour.
Visit us and see for yourself
Talk to our tutors and find out about our courses and facilities at our next open day or join a campus tour.
Our prospectus
All of our courses in one place - download now or order a hard copy.
We're here to help
Any questions about a course or studying at UWL? We're here to help - call us on 0800 036 8888 (option 2, Monday – Friday 10am-4pm) or email us on courses@uwl.ac.uk.
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Student life at UWL
Important notes for applicants
Disclaimer
*Modern universities - defined as higher education institutions that were granted university status in, and subsequent to, 1992.
**The National Student Survey 2022 and 2023 - Based on an average of all 27 questions. Excludes specialist institutions.
Testimonials - our students or former students provided all of our testimonials - often a student from the course but sometimes another student. For example, the testimonial often comes from another UWL student when the course is new.
Optional modules - where optional modules are offered they will run subject to staff availability and viable student numbers opting to take the module.
Videos - all videos on our course pages were accurate at the time of filming. In some cases a new Course Leader has joined the University since the video was filmed.
Availability of placements - if you choose a course with placement/internship route we would like to advise you that if a placement/internship opportunity does not arise when you are expected to undertake the placement then the University will automatically transfer you to the non-internship route, this is to ensure you are still successful in being awarded a degree.