Performing Arts - HND Performing Arts (Acting)

In Partnership with – Screen Yorkshire, Empath Action CIC and Actual Size Theatre.

This one-year, full-time Level 5 programme awards a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Acting. Upon completion, you will have the option to progress to a Level 6 BA top-up degree to obtain a full honours degree

Professional development is at the heart of this course, and you will have the opportunity to develop as a dramatic theatre artist in a truly creative and collaborative way. This course will provide you with the opportunity to apply your skills development in studio settings and in a diverse range of performances.

The Year One (HNC) focused on cultivating your core performance and theatre skills within a collaborative, supportive environment. In Year Two (HND), you will sharpen your professional edge by building on that foundation and pursuing independent lines of inquiry. By engaging directly with industry experts, such as Screen Yorkshire, you’ll gain the first hand insights and practical experience essential to evolving as a versatile performing arts actor and practitioner.

Professional development, industry standard training and academic study are at the core of this course, whether you wish to become a performer, a community arts practitioner, a teacher, or a combination of all three.

The course is designed to give those who wish to pursue a career in Acting and Theatre Arts the best possible start. In addition, you will also learn to become a ‘thinking and analytical’ performer with a breadth of knowledge relating to both the performing arts industry and related contextual studies. You will see the latest productions, perform in shows and work alongside industry professionals in order to gain a perspective of industry practice and to keep abreast of what’s happening in your particular field of study. This course is the first step on the ladder to success in one of the most exciting, rewarding and creative industries.

The HND Acting course offers students the opportunity to develop as original artists while gaining a respected and valuable qualification. Close links with local organisations, working Acting professionals, a range of theatre visits and an annual residential trip are among the highlights of this exciting and dynamic course. Beyond gaining the relevant skills to become a professional theatre practitioner, you will also gain valuable further experience in collaboration, communication and creativity.

Module B: Professional Creative Practice

B1: Personal Professional Development

B2: Professional Project

The course is assessed through coursework that you produce as you complete each assignment for the Module you are studying, this may include performance pieces, skills development, written work, research, presentations and reflective practice which allow you to evaluate your learning and highlight your strengths and areas for further development.

Assessment is ongoing within sessions and will comprise of peer and self-assessment as well as tutor assessment. There are at least 2 formative assessments during each module assignment and 1 summative submission that ends with a final grade.

Completed HNC Acting

All applicants are required to audition, consisting of an interview and a workshop, alongside preparing a monologue of your choice lasting between 1 and 1.5 minutes long.

The HND course is recognised as a qualification in its own right or can be combined with a top-up degree to obtain a full honours degree like our BA (Hons) Performance Industries course. Alternatively, you can study a PGCE or Certificate in Education to progress to teaching.