Program Overview

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Acting for Stage and Screen BA (Hons)

Key Facts

• UCAS Code: W410
• Level: Undergraduate (UG) BA (Hons)
• Duration: Full Time: 3 years
• Starting: September
• Entry Requirements: BBC at A-Level or DDM at BTEC/Cambridge Technical
• UK Fees 25/26: Full Time: £9,535
• International Fees 25/26: Full Time: £15,700
• Location: Innovation Centre

Overview

The performing arts industry has evolved significantly over the past decade, shaped by global shifts in technology, audience engagement, and industry demands. The rise of digital streaming platforms, the impact of the pandemic on live performance, and the increasing importance of screen acting, and self-produced content have transformed the landscape for emerging actors.

Our new BA Acting for Stage and Screen has been designed to reflect these changes, offering a dynamic and contemporary training experience that prepares students for careers across theatre, television, film, and digital media. This course builds on the foundations of traditional actor training while embracing the latest industry trends, including screen performance techniques, motion capture, voice work, and self-taping for auditions.

Rooted in professional practice, this course draws on our strong industry connections to deliver a curriculum that is rigorous, practical, and intellectually stimulating. Students will develop a deep understanding of performance craft, storytelling, and industry professionalism while exploring their creative identity as actors.

With a strong emphasis on employability, professional development, and sustainability in the arts, our BA Acting for Stage and Screen equips graduates with the skills, confidence, and adaptability to thrive in an ever-changing entertainment industry. Whether their passion lies in live performance, screen acting, or new digital platforms, this course empowers students to harness their talents and build flourishing careers in the performing arts industry.

Highlights

• High-profile guests delivering world-class acting workshops throughout the year.
• Links to prestigious Royal and Derngate Theatre.
• An opportunity to join the IDEK Theatre Company, specialising in physical theatre in education.
• Guaranteed paid internship with the Northampton Employment Promise.
• HP laptop and software included with this course for eligible students* (*see Eligibility criteria and Terms and Conditions).

Entry Requirements

A typical offer for BA Acting for Stage and Screen is:

• BBC at A-Level or,
• DDM at BTEC/Cambridge Technical or
• M at T Level

in conjunction with an extensive audition.

We welcome applications from a range of non-traditional education or professional qualifications, and from students with a mix of A levels and BTEC/Cambridge Technical qualifications.

Auditions

Once your application has been reviewed, you may be invited to attend an audition with us. During your audition, you will need to perform two monologues: one classical/Shakespeare piece and one contemporary piece. Both pieces should be no more than two minutes long and you should know them by heart.

We’ll also do some vocal, movement, and acting workshops with you, so please come prepared in loose-fitting clothing so you can move around easily and be comfortable.

Following your performances and the workshops, there will be an interview with a member of the Acting for Stage & Screen team. You’ll also have the chance to meet with some current students on the course and ask them any questions you might have about training to be an actor at UON.

The audition is in a group setting with other applicants, and you should expect to be with us for 4-6 hours.

We do require you to attend face-to-face for your audition, but we will accommodate virtual auditions if you cannot attend face-to-face.

English Language Requirements

All International and EU students applying for a course with the University of Northampton must meet the following minimum English language requirements:

• IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent) with a minimum of 5.5 in all bands for study at undergraduate level

For information regarding English language requirements at the University, please see our IELTS page.

The Martin Lawrence Acting Award

Each year Martin Lawrence MBE sponsors The Martin Lawrence Acting Award, which helps to fund the best actor and best actress from the programme into the profession.

Course Content

The BA Acting for Stage and Screen offers a dynamic, hands-on training that prepares students for the demands of contemporary performance across theatre, film, and television.

In Year 1, you’ll build core acting skills through voice, movement, and text-based work, with a focus on ensemble practice and foundational techniques for both stage and camera.

Year 2 deepens your craft through scene study, character development, and industry-focused classes, while introducing you to more complex performance projects and filmed work. You’ll also begin to explore your own creative voice through devising and collaborative work with peers and visiting professionals.

In your final year, you’ll refine your professional practice, preparing for entry into the industry through audition technique, showreel development, and workshops with agents and casting directors. The course culminates in a major public performance project, where you’ll take part in a professional-directed production for stage or screen, showcasing your skills to a live audience and invited industry guests.

Throughout the three years, you’ll experience a rich blend of rehearsal, production, and academic study – equipping you to graduate as a confident, versatile performer ready to launch your career.

List of Modules

• Stage 1
  • ACT1020 Improvisation for Actors (20 Credits)
  • ACT1021 Vocal Techniques for Actors (20 Credits)
  • ACT1022 Movement Techniques for Actors (20 Credits)
  • ACT1023 Ensemble Voice and Body (20 Credits)
  • ACT1024 The Actor and The Text on Screen (20 Credits)
  • ACT1025 The Actor and The Text on Stage (20 Credits)
• Stage 2
  • ACT2024 Devised Performance (20 Credits)
  • ACT2025 Expressive Movement and Technology (20 Credits)
  • ACT2026 Expressive Voice and Technology (20 Credits)
  • ACT2027 Screen Acting (20 Credits)
  • ACT2028 Professional Portfolio (20 Credits)
  • ACT2029 Creative Collaborations (20 Credits)
• Stage 3
  • ACT4007 Professional Performance (40 Credits)
  • ACT3019 Socially Engaged Performance (20 Credits)
  • ACT3020 Professional Voice and Movement (20 Credits)
  • ACT3021 Industry Preparation (20 Credits)
  • ACT3022 Fringe Festival Performance (20 Credits)

Student Perks

At the University of Northampton, everything we do, from funded trips to paid internships, is to give you everything you need to make a difference when you leave.

If you join this full-time Acting for Stage and Screen degree at Northampton, you will receive a laptop when your course begins*. The laptops are built to a bespoke custom specification ideal for use in the seminar room, collaborative group work, or studying at home.

Whatever your ambitions, we’re here to help you to achieve them. We’ll support you to identify the skills you’re learning during your Acting course, find your strengths, and secure practical experience so that when it comes to applying for jobs or further study, you’ll feel confident in standing out from the crowd. We’ve created the Northampton Employment Promise because we are so confident that if you focus on your studies and complete one of our awards, you’ll be highly employable by the time you graduate. Putting you in a great position to secure employment or continue your studies.

To check out the full list of perks, visit our Student Perks page or dedicated International Perks page.

*UK fee payers only (see Terms and Conditions for further details).

FAQs

• What is the Acting for Stage and Screen course about?

This course is designed to prepare students for professional work in theatre, film, and television. You will develop a range of performance skills as well as a deep understanding of acting techniques, industry practices, and creative collaboration.

• How will I be taught on Acting for Stage and Screen?

You’ll be taught through a combination of practical workshops, rehearsals, skills classes, and performance projects. The course blends traditional stagecraft with on-camera techniques, ensuring you graduate as a versatile performer. Teaching will take place in studio-based settings with industry-standard equipment, led by experienced professionals and visiting practitioners.

• What kind of performance opportunities will I have?

Students will participate in a variety of performance projects, including stage productions, filmed scenes, and devised work. Final-year students often take part in a showcase for industry professionals and have opportunities to work on short films and public performances. There is also an opportunity to go to France and work as part of a theatre ensemble.

• Are there opportunities to work with industry professionals?

Yes. Throughout the course, you’ll engage with visiting directors, actors, casting agents, and filmmakers. Industry links are a key part of the programme, helping you build networks and gain real-world insight.

• What facilities will I have access to?

You’ll train in dedicated rehearsal studios, black box theatre spaces, and have access to film and TV recording equipment. Editing suites and technical support are also available to help bring your screen work to life.

• How will I be assessed on BA Acting for Stage and Screen?

Assessment is through practical work, performances, recorded scenes, reflective journals, and occasional written tasks. There are no formal written exams – the focus is on demonstrating your skills in action.

• What careers can this course lead to?

Graduates can pursue careers in acting for theatre, film, and television, as well as related fields such as directing, writing, voiceover work, and arts education. The course also equips you with transferable skills useful across the creative industries.

• Do I need previous acting experience to apply?

While prior experience can be helpful, it’s not essential. We’re looking for potential, commitment, and a willingness to learn. All applicants will be auditioned as part of the admissions process.

• What makes this course different to other acting degrees?

This course places equal emphasis on stage and screen training, reflecting the demands of today’s industry. With small class sizes, regular contact hours, and tailored feedback, you’ll receive personalised support to develop your craft.

• How much independent study is expected?

You’ll be expected to engage in around 10 hours of independent study each week. This includes script work, character development, research, and rehearsal outside of scheduled classes.

Intensive Training Abroad Opportunity

In the second year of the programme, there may be an opportunity to train abroad for a month*, living and working intensively in an actor training environment aimed at giving students a taste of what an Artistic Residency can give performance practitioners, as well as an opportunity to encounter another cultural setting distinct from their own.

The Artist Residency takes place in the South of France.

*This opportunity is dependent on funding on a yearly basis and students will need to be approved by the academic team.

Fees and Funding

• 2025/26 Tuition Fees
  • UK – Full Time: £9,535
  • International: £15,700

Fees quoted relate to study in the Academic Year 2025/26 only and may be subject to inflationary increases in future years. UON will adjust UK fees annually in line with Government Policy.

• Additional Costs

Potential additional costs include:

+ Show Reel: £120 (approx.)
+ Head shots: £70 (approx.)
+ Spotlight membership: £100 (not compulsory)

Scholarships and Bursaries

For information on the scholarships available to you, please see our scholarships page.

For more information about possible funding options, please visit our Fees and Funding pages.

2024/25 Tuition Fees

Fees quoted relate to study in the Academic Year 24/25 only and may be subject to inflationary increases in future years.

• UK – Full Time: £9,250
• International: £15,200

Staff

• Senior Lecturer in Acting & Drama
  • Gemma Boaden
  • Lisa Lapidge
  • Luke Clarke
  • Rory O'Neill
  • Paul Morrison
  • Emmett Tams
  • Owain Rose

Careers and Employability

Our Acting for Stage and Screen graduates go on to work in all forms of creative and performing arts roles:

• Performance & Voice Work
  • Stage & Screen Actor (theatre, film, TV, streaming)
  • Voice Artist (audio drama, animation, games, commercials)
  • Commercial & Digital Content Actor (ads, YouTube, TikTok)
• Creative Leadership
  • Director or Producer (independent or with companies)
  • Theatre-Maker (devising original work)
  • Creative Entrepreneur (founding your own projects or companies)
• Education & Community
  • Drama Teacher or Lecturer (with further training)
  • Youth Theatre Practitioner or Drama Facilitator
  • CPD Trainer for Drama Educators
• Behind the Scenes
  • Stage Manager or Theatre Technician
  • Casting Assistant or Director
  • Movement or Voice Coach
  • Script Reader
• Other Creative Roles
  • Presenter or Host (events, media, online)
  • Performance Coach (communication, public speaking)
  • Stunt Performer or Fight Choreographer (with specialist training)

Facilities and Special Features

Specialist facilities and features on the Acting degree include:

• Six bespoke rehearsal rooms that are stimulating and at the same time practical, safe, and ideal for learning the craft of acting
• Lecturers with professional experience as actors and directors
• Direct links to the prestigious Royal and Derngate theatre who also audition students for their main house productions
• Student Equity card
• Talks and workshops by world-class directors and actors and other industry figures
• In recent years, actors such as Samantha Bond and Lesley Joseph have spent time with our students.

Related Courses

• Hair, Make-Up and Prosthetics for Stage and Screen BA (Hons)
• Creative Film, Television and Digital Media Production BA (Hons)