Program Overview

---

Introduction to the Theatre BA (Hons) Program

The Theatre BA (Hons) program is a one-year online learning course, equivalent to Year 3 (FHEQ Level 6) of full-time study. This program is designed for students who have completed a Level 5 qualification in acting, musical theatre, or English and drama, as well as industry professionals with significant work experience.

Key Course Information

• Course Options: BA (Hons)
• Typical Offer: See entry requirements
• Start Date: September 2026
• Full Time: 1 year
• UK Fees: To be confirmed
• Overseas Fees: £23,700
• Subject Area: Theatre and performing arts
• Campus: Distance learning

Why Choose This Course?

• Get a degree from Guildford School of Acting (GSA), a leading UK conservatoire recognized worldwide for excellence in theatre education, taught by industry-active professionals.
• Study flexibly from anywhere with fully online, asynchronous learning designed to fit around work, life, and creative commitments.
• Benefit from the strength of a world-class research university, combining academic rigor with industry-focused, practical skills.
• Build global networks in a cohort of performing arts professionals and creative practitioners from across the UK and around the world.
• Gain a competitive edge through GSA's strong industry links, opening pathways to postgraduate study, creative partnerships, and career opportunities.

Is This Course Right for Me?

This program is aimed at students completing or holding a Level 5 qualification in acting, musical theatre, or English and drama. It also attracts industry professionals with a significant track record of work experience. The program may be suitable for you if:

• You have completed the first two years of your undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline and are set to progress onto your final year.
• You hold a Higher National Diploma (HND) or equivalent qualification and wish to get a full honors degree.
• You have significant professional experience and wish to get a full honors degree.
• You are looking to get a well-rounded theatre degree via online distance learning.

Statistics

• 3rd in the UK: For drama, dance, and cinematics in the Complete University Guide 2026.
• 10th in the UK: For drama, dance, and cinematics in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026.
• 1st in the UK: For drama and music in the Daily Mail University Guide 2026.

Course Details

The course is delivered through online learning and includes a range of modules that integrate professional experience with theory across a broad set of topics. Students will study five core modules and a final project with a series of options, including:

• Musical Theatre
• Theories of Performance
• Contemporary Performer Training
• Political Theatre
• Professional Development Planning
• Final Project: options include playwriting, musical theatre scenario, choreography, theatre design, or extended essay.

Course Structure

The academic year is divided into two semesters of 15 weeks each. Each semester consists of a period of teaching, revision/directed learning, and assessment. The structure of the programs follows clear educational aims tailored to each program.

Modules

Modules listed are indicative, reflecting the information available at the time of publication. Modules are subject to teaching availability, student demand, and/or class size caps. The University operates a credit framework for all taught programs based on a 15-credit tariff.

Teaching and Learning

The course is primarily a one-year online learning course. We provide teaching and learning materials electronically through the University's virtual learning environment, supported by three online weekend seminars. Study and assessment are made up of compulsory modules and a choice of final project for submission.

Assessment

We assess modules individually and award credits for the successful completion of each one. All assignments are submitted online via our virtual learning environment, Surrey Learn.

Career Opportunities

We offer careers information, advice, and guidance to all students whilst studying with us, which is extended to our alumni for three years after leaving the University. Many past graduates have progressed to further study or have gone on to gain Qualified Teacher Status (QTS Assessment only) and other subject-specialist teaching qualifications.

Hear from Our Students and Graduates

Graduates of this course work across the globe in leading drama schools, universities, schools, theatres, and production companies, as well as performing in the West End and on screen.

Entry Requirements

Prospective candidates are required to have successfully completed a three-year National Diploma at an accredited drama school or have significant industry experience and equivalent qualifications. GCSE or equivalent: English Language at Grade 4 (C) (or equivalent).

English Language Requirements

IELTS Academic: 6.5 overall with 6.0 in each element.

Selection Process

Offers are made on the basis of the completed application form and a short online interview with members of staff at the GSA.

Recognition of Prior Learning

We recognize that many students enter their higher education course with valuable knowledge and skills developed through a range of professional, vocational, and community contexts.

Fees and Funding

The annual tuition fees for courses starting in September 2026 are:

• UK: To be confirmed
• Overseas: £23,700

Scholarships and Bursaries

Discover what scholarships and bursaries are available to support your studies.