Performing Arts (Drama) (Top-up)

Aimed at students who have previously studied performing arts disciplines such as drama, dance or music production/performance, this course will allow you to further develop your skills in a specific area, whilst also giving you a good overview of the industry. In the first semester you will work with other students on the same pathway to develop your team work abilities, before going on to hone your performance skills in the Final Major Project during the second semester. Validated by The Open University, the BA (Hons) Top-Up in Performing Arts: Drama is an innovative programme located in new, purpose-built facilities of a professional standard. The course prepares students for employment, further study and self-fulfilment within a wide field. An emphasis on ‘state of the art’ contemporary practice will be a feature of the course, with regard to industry developments and curriculum content, ensuring that students are very aware of current professional demands and likely developments. The course combines contextual elements with an extensive concentration upon practical skills and will appeal to those seeking to work in performance.  Professionals currently working in the industry will be a significant part of the curriculum delivery in order to ensure student contacts and links are developed in every way. Teaching and learning will take place via lectures, seminars, tutorials, workshops, presentations and performances. The course year comprises of two semesters. The first semester (September to January) will focus on Professional Practice and students will study alongside students on the BA (Hons) Top-Up courses in Performing Arts: Musical Theatre to develop transferable skills. Students will also complete a minor project which will help in the further development of performance skills, team work and production. Towards the end of the first semester, students will begin work on their specialist route, pre-planning their final major project. In Semester 2 students will complete their final major project which accounts for 60 credits of the 120 credit course. This major project will be carefully monitored and the project will replicate industry experience including performing a production before a live audience as well as being responsible for all aspects of the production. Students will also analyse their own personal development over the course in a summative evaluation. Modules have been designed, after discussions with industry specialists, to offer specialist study but also allow a broader context for the subjects, ensuring students are able to cope with an era of convergence in media, music and performing arts generally.   The teaching team has wide-ranging expertise both as industry experienced practitioners with individual specialisms and as higher education academics. Some colleagues are working towards Fellowships of the Higher Education Academy. In addition, specialist practitioners who are experts in areas such as dance and music techniques are involved in delivery of the course. Guest lecturers will also offer a variety of specialist and focused sessions.

UCAS Tariff - 96 points
Applicants are required to have a Level 5 qualification in an appropriate subject, such as a foundation degree or equivalent in Performing Arts, Drama, Musical Theatre or an associated subject. Students should also have GCSE English at grade C or above or an equivalent (i.e. Level 2 Functional Skills). Applicants need a genuine interest and passion for the subject and be able to demonstrate this articulately, along with motivation, confidence and creativity. Mature applicants with extensive work experience and/or a range of professional qualifications in their work sector will be considered on an individual basis. References, alternative experience and skills will all be taken into account.