Acting

The Acting program at the University of Essex offers an immersive and comprehensive education designed to develop students' skills, creativity, and confidence in performing arts. This dynamic course combines practical training, theoretical understanding, and industry insights to prepare students for successful careers in acting across various media, including theatre, television, and film. Throughout the program, students engage in intensive workshops, rehearsals, and performances, enabling them to explore diverse acting techniques and develop a versatile approach to their craft. The curriculum emphasizes acting methodology, voice training, movement, and improvisation, ensuring graduates are well-equipped with a solid foundation in stage and screen performance. In addition to practical skills, students study drama and theatre history, critical analysis, and script work, fostering a deeper understanding of performance contexts and styles. The program also provides opportunities for students to work with industry professionals through guest lectures, masterclasses, and internships, enhancing their employability and industry awareness. State-of-the-art facilities, including dedicated rehearsal spaces, recording studios, and performance venues, support students’ development and allow for realistic practice environments. The passionate faculty, comprised of experienced practitioners and scholars, guides students through personalized mentoring and constructive feedback, fostering individual growth and artistic confidence. The Acting course at Essex encourages originality, risk-taking, and collaboration, preparing graduates to compete effectively in a competitive industry and make meaningful artistic contributions. Combining rigorous training with a supportive learning environment, the program aims to cultivate the next generation of versatile, innovative, and professionally prepared actors ready to succeed in a rapidly evolving entertainment landscape.

Detailed Course Facts

• GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
• GBP 11950 Year (Non-EEA)

• English

Course Content

We operate a credit framework for our awards, which is based on principles widely used across the UK university sector. Each module has a credit rating attached and our standard three-year course consists of 360 credits (120 credits in your first year, and 240 credits across your second and final years).
Please note that module information on our course finder provides a guide to course content and may be subject to review on an annual basis.

Year 1

Introduction to Acting Theory, Methods and Practice, Development from Self to Character;
Verbatim Theatre and Contemporary Scene Study;
British Plays from 1956 to 1978;
Improvised Living History;
Voice I;
Movement I;
Music and Singing I; and
Contextual Studies I.

Year 2

Development of Acting Methodology;
Extension of Acting Methodology;
Acting Techniques and Styles;
Shakespeare and Elizabethan Verse Drama;
Voice II;
Movement II;
Music and Singing II; and
Contextual Studies II.

Year 3

Production – Text and Technique;
Professional Preparation;
Notions of Realism;
Screen and Radio;
Final Productions/Skills;
Voice, Movement, Music and Singing; and
Contextual Studies.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

• Successful audition, plus A-level grades EE or BTEC Diploma grades PP, or equivalent qualification.
• GCSE English Language: C
• Achievement of the Access to HE Diploma with a minimum of 45 level three credits at pass (or above)

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of Essex.

Funding

For up-to-date information on funding opportunities at Essex, please visit: www.essex.ac.uk/studentfinance.

The Acting program at the University of Essex offers students an in-depth education in the craft of performance, focusing on developing practical skills, creative expression, and a comprehensive understanding of theatrical techniques. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for a wide range of careers in the performing arts industry, including stage acting, film, and television. Throughout the course, students engage with a variety of acting methodologies, voice training, movement, and stagecraft, ensuring a well-rounded training experience. The program emphasizes experiential learning, with numerous opportunities for students to participate in productions, workshops, and industry placements, fostering confidence and professionalism. Students benefit from the university’s experienced faculty, many of whom are active practitioners in the arts, providing mentorship and real-world insights. Additionally, the program encourages exploration of contemporary issues and diverse performance styles, promoting versatility and adaptability. The facilities include dedicated rehearsal spaces, performance theatres, and recording studios, supporting practical development. The university's strong connections with local theaters and arts organizations also enhance networking opportunities and industry exposure. Graduates of the Acting program are equipped with both technical skills and strategic know-how, enabling them to pursue careers as professional actors, performers, or to further their studies in related fields. The program is suitable for students passionate about theatrical arts and committed to developing their expressive abilities in a dynamic academic environment.