HNC in Performing Arts

Course Specification

This course is aimed at undergraduate students who wish to develop skills in the Performing Arts, especially those desiring to continue their studies at university or vocational drama school level. Graduates of this course have completed degree programmes at University, attended recognised Drama schools, become teachers and workshop leaders or found employment in the industry.

The ideal candidate will have a passion for the performance industry and will hold a Level 3 Diploma in Performing Arts or equivalent related qualifications, providing a minimum of 64 UCAS Points. Where you do not hold appropriate related qualifications, you may apply for the course by demonstrating academic ability through a portfolio of work.

You will develop skills within all the performance disciplines with a key focus on personal achievement and growth. Our specialist tutors will help you become competent, confident, and innovative within
your performance practice, whilst developing your knowledge of the underpinning theory.  

You will have the opportunity to perform in musicals, concerts, cabaret shows, plays, music gigs and audition scenarios, and to work collaboratively with outside agencies, thus adding to your
network of contacts.

This one-year course has been designed to provide Higher level Performing Arts training in a vocational environment. This course aims to enable aspiring performers and creatives to enter the profession.

The course structure will allow learners to develop skills within the three key performance disciplines (singing, dancing and acting) with a key focus on personal achievement and employability. Emphasis is placed on developing student autonomy and students are encouraged to take ownership of their own work. Our subject specialist tutors guide and support students to become competent, confident and innovative within the performing arts practice.

To complement the studies, learners will also have the opportunity to work alongside current industry professionals. In the past, we have had guest lectures and workshops from cast members of Urinetown, Les Misérables, Miss Saigon and the RSC. This gives students first-hand knowledge of current industry practices and demonstrates the standards that are required to be a successful practitioner.

Whilst studying, students have taken part in musicals, concerts, cabaret performances, plays, radio dramas, music gigs and major auditions. Past students have also gained work experience placements through our industry contacts, which has enabled access to employment and mentorship.

Alongside the performance skills, students will develop knowledge and experience of the ‘backstage’ environment, taking on production roles for performances not only in the college theatre but other venues, including the local professional theatre, Theatre Severn.

Such roles could include stage management (Stage Manager, Assistant Stage or Manager Deputy Stage Manager) lighting operation and sound operation. For those students with further interest and desire within this area, work experience in a professional venue can be organised. Visiting companies also use the college theatre and opportunities to work collaboratively with outside companies have been set up, allowing you to develop professional contacts and work experience.

This course includes the following units:

• Professional Development (15 Credits) Level 4
• Jazz Dance 1 (15 Credits) Level 4
• Devising Theatre & Performance (15 Credits) Level 4
• Singing 1 (15 Credits) Level 4
• The Performing Arts Industry (15 Credits) Level 4
• Production Communication (15 Credits) Level 4
• Acting 1 (15 Credits) Level 4
• Ensemble Singing (15 Credits) Level 4

*units are subject to change, dependent on the needs of the student group.

The majority of work is assessed through performance. Methods of assessment will include written assignments, controlled assessments, observations and presentations.

For the course, you will need a memory stick or hard drive with a high capacity, a journal or notepad, movement clothing and basic ballet shoes.

Throughout the year of study, students will develop skills in performance; singing; dancing and acting as well as skills used in directing and choreographing. These developments are enabled through the delivery of subject-specific modules and through the experiences gained on the course. The experiences gained on the course include performing in the town’s professional theatre, Theatre Severn, working with seasoned professionals, attending professional workshops as well as visiting regional theatres for live performances.

This course has historically offered students the opportunity to access an overseas trip, where students will visit a country to experience different cultures and gain a wider understanding of their subject area. Previous trips have been to Berlin, Barcelona and Verona.

If you wish to continue your studies there is the option of a top-up year to achieve an HND (subject to individual entry requirements).

A graduate of this course could go on to a career in the performing arts industry as a performer, undertaking work in entertainment, television, stage, touring productions or community work. Successful performer could also develop their skills as a ‘Creative’ in the field, obtaining directorial roles within the field on a self-employed basis.

To join this course you will first have to register with UCAS at www.ucas.com and then apply through UCAS. (Choose: Sign In–Students–Undergraduate–Apply–Register and follow the instructions.) You will then receive a confirmation email from UCAS and the College will be in contact with an interview date. Current Shrewsbury Colleges Group students should seek support from their tutor before applying.

If after reading this fact sheet, you are still undecided about the programme most suitable for you, please drop in to one of our Advice Events, ring Course Advice on 01743 653333 or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.