• Undergraduate

Acting for Stage and Screen BA (Hons)

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Overview

Overview

Why study at the University of West London?
  • Ranked 30th university in the UK - The Guardian University Guide 2025
  • Number 1 London university for overall student satisfaction - National Student Survey 2024**
  • Best university for Student Experience and Teaching Quality in the UK - The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024
Why study this course?

Learn how to become an imaginative, well-rounded actor on this innovative Acting for Stage and Screen 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.

Top-up course option

A top-up course is equivalent to the final year of an undergraduate degree and allows you to 'top up' an existing qualification (such as a Higher National Diploma, NVQ Level 5 etc.) into a full honours degree.

Select your desired study option, then pick a start date to see relevant course information:

Study options:
We support flexible study by offering some of our courses part-time or via distance learning. To give you real world experience before you graduate, we also offer some courses with a placement or internship. All available options are listed here. Your choices may affect some details of your course, such as the duration and cost per year. Please re-check the details on this page if you change your selection.
With Foundation Year
Duration: 4 years

Start date:

If your desired start date is not available, try selecting a different study option.

Why study Acting for Stage and Screen with us?

Why study Acting for Stage and Screen with us?

A collage of students
A collage of students

What our students say…

The course has shown me how to become a creative alongside my passion for acting. I am very fortunate to be studying at LCM - I have such a wonderful support base of teachers and fellow students, who always encourage me in all of my crazy creative endeavours. This course has helped me to engage with the creative side of the performing arts industry in depth and with confidence. Undertaking my first professional job as Assistant Director for ‘Much Ado About Not(h)ing’ (which opened at The Cockpit in June 2019) helped me to gain this insight – an opportunity which arose thanks to the invaluable connections I made in my first year. I couldn’t have picked a more perfect course.

Zsara Jaeger

The best thing about my course was I made the best friends and the best connections as well. In my third year, I made a West End connection and a Netflix connection, and I’ve got auditions for that already. UWL is seriously a great thing in my life. I’m so happy. The teaching and diversity, they included it all!  

Kalvin Lobo, BA (Hons) Acting
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Course detail & modules

Course detail & modules

As part of the Acting for Stage and Screen 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

  • 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.

  • Voice and Movement

    You will explore spoken voice and movement skills and theories with a focus on heightened texts such as Shakespeare, poetry, lyrics etc. You will explore spoken voice through practical sessions which integrate anatomical theory with creative application. Through movement, you will focus on the actor’s awareness and understanding of the body as a tool for the creation of character. You will consider both conscious and unconscious physical choices, creating a greater understanding of the ‘self’ as the centre for all creative decisions.

  • 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

  • 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.

  • Creative Project

Compulsory modules

  • Acting as Storytelling

    This module will be taught alongside Voice and Movement for Performance. This module 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. 

  • Voice and Movement for Performance

    This module introduces you to voice and movement work as actors.  It will explore the role of the voice and body in creative storytelling. The focus 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 teamwork.  You will learn more about collaboration techniques, and inclusive practices, and put these into action in your creative storytelling assessment.

  • Performing Stories

    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.

  • Creating Character

    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.

  • Performing Character

    This module continues the work of the Voice and Movement for Performance 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.

  • 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

  • Performing Heightened Text

    In this module, you’ll have the opportunity to work on heightened text such as Shakespeare or Restoration Comedy.  You will learn about the associated performance styles and how to approach the language form in performance.  Working with a professional director, you will have the opportunity to perform in a (cut) full-length production of a heightened text that will be performed to external audiences in schools or community centres.

  • Performing with Emotion

    Having looked at storytelling and then at creating character, in this module we ask, how does the actor embody and respond to emotion in performance? We will explore a variety of approaches from different practitioners, looking at how emotion works in both drama and comedy. This module will have a screen-acting focus.

  • Voice and Movement for Stage and Screen

    In this integrated voice and movement module you will learn techniques which complement Performing with Emotion 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.

  • Documentary Performance Project

    This module introduces you to research methods and performance as research, supporting you as you progress to your creative project in level 6. You will be guided to explore documentary theatre methodologies, such as verbatim theatre or autobiographical theatre. Working with a professional director, the group will use their own research on a given subject to devise a piece of documentary theatre that you will then perform for an external audience (school or community centre).

  • 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.

  • The Actor - Creator

    In this integrated acting, voice and movement module you will learn techniques which complement your ‘Performing with Technology’ and ‘Creative Project’ 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.

Compulsory modules

  • 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.

  • 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

  • Voice and Movement for Production

    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.

  • 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.

  • Creative Project

    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) including theatre or short film. 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 your project.

Entry requirements

Entry requirements

120-128 UCAS points required from level 3 qualifications

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 for Stage and Screen with Foundation Year?

View Foundation Year course
Whether you are changing career or don't have the exact subjects and grades required for this course, you might want to choose this course with a foundation year. This will give you an extra year's study to prepare you for the standard degree programme, where you can go on to graduate with a full Honours degree. Follow the link to see full details of the course 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 for Stage and Screen with Foundation Year?

View Foundation Year course
Whether you are changing career or don't have the exact subjects and grades required for this course, you might want to choose this course with a foundation year. This will give you an extra year's study to prepare you for the standard degree programme, where you can go on to graduate with a full Honours degree. Follow the link to see full details of the course with foundation year.
6.0 IELTS or above

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.

Find out more about our English Language courses.

Looking for BA (Hons) Acting for Stage and Screen with Foundation Year?

View Foundation Year course
Whether you are changing career or don't have the exact subjects and grades required for this course, you might want to choose this course with a foundation year. This will give you an extra year's study to prepare you for the standard degree programme, where you can go on to graduate with a full Honours degree. Follow the link to see full details of the course 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 for Stage and Screen with Foundation Year?

View Foundation Year course
Whether you are changing career or don't have the exact subjects and grades required for this course, you might want to choose this course with a foundation year. This will give you an extra year's study to prepare you for the standard degree programme, where you can go on to graduate with a full Honours degree. Follow the link to see full details of the course with foundation year.
Fees & funding

Fees & funding

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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.

Funding your studies
{{ formatCurrencyValue(currentVariantData.field_p_cv_int_main_fee.name) }} per year

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.

 

Financial support for international students
Teaching staff

Teaching staff

Isla Hall

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

Study & career progression

Actors at the London College of Music

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

How to apply

Search for courses

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 2023 and 2024 - Average of answers to all questions by registered student population. 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.