Acting for Stage and Screen

Our new BA Acting for Stage and Screen has been designed to reflect these changes, offering a dynamic and contemporary training experience that prepares students for careers across theatre, television, film, and digital media. This course builds on the foundations of traditional actor training while embracing the latest industry trends, including screen performance techniques, motion capture, voice work, and self-taping for auditions.

Rooted in professional practice, this course draws on our strong industry connections to deliver a curriculum that is rigorous, practical, and intellectually stimulating. Students will develop a deep understanding of performance craft, storytelling, and industry professionalism while exploring their creative identity as actors.

With a strong emphasis on employability, professional development, and sustainability in the arts, our BA Acting for Stage and Screen equips graduates with the skills, confidence, and adaptability to thrive in an ever-changing entertainment industry. Whether their passion lies in live performance, screen acting, or new digital platforms, this course empowers students to harness their talents and build flourishing careers in the performing arts industry.

Our Acting course has been successful in the 2026 Guardian University Guide:

Ranked 20th for Satisfied with Feedback for Drama and Dance*

Why choose the University of Northampton?

At the University of Northampton, you’ll benefit from a supportive, career-focused experience designed to help you succeed.

Personalised learning

Study in small groups led by expert academics, with dedicated one-to-one support. Our close-knit community ensures you receive individual guidance while being challenged to achieve your best.

Built for your future

Whatever your goals, we’ll help you get there. You’ll develop valuable skills, discover your strengths, and gain real-world experience - so you’re ready to stand out when applying for jobs or further study.

Guaranteed accommodation

We guarantee a room in our Halls of Residence for all new full-time first-year students who apply and accept their offer by June 2027**.

Exceptional student benefits

You’ll receive a brand-new laptop at no additional cost***, and all essential textbooks are available through our library - helping you save money throughout your studies.

A modern campus experience

Study at our student-led purpose-built Waterside Campus, designed to provide an inspiring and dynamic environment for learning and student life. Visit us at an Open Day to see it for yourself.

The Northampton Employment Promise

We’re confident you’ll graduate ready to launch your career. If you’re not in employment within six months, you’ll receive dedicated support from a Careers Development Consultant. If you’re still seeking opportunities after that, we’ll offer you a paid internship.

✱ Data taken from the 2026 Guardian University Guide Drama and Dance Subject table, filtered by Satisfied with Feedback
✱✱ eligibility criteria apply. See northampton.ac.uk/student-life/accommodation/ for more information
✱✱✱ eligibility criteria and terms and conditions apply. See northampton.ac.uk/benefits for more information

Course Modules

All modules are compulsory as they work together as a cohesive and holistic creative actor-training programme.

Stage 1:

• Improvisations for Actors

• Vocal Techniques for Actors

• Movement Techniques for Actors

• Ensemble Voice and Body

• The Actor and The Text on Screen

• The Actor and the Text on Stage

Stage 2:

• Devised Performance

• Classic Adaptation

• Mediated Voice

• Screen Acting

• Content and Media Creation

• Creative Ensemble

Stage 3:

• Professional Performance

• Socially Engaged Performance

• Professional Voice and Movement

• Industry Preparation

• Industry Preparation

• Fringe Festival Performance

Module information is quoted for 26/27 entry. Please note that modules run subject to student numbers and staff availability, any changes will be communicated to applicants accordingly. 27/28 entry modules will be released in June 2027.

The course is mainly assessed through practical work, performances and presentations, worth 80% of your final grade, but there is some written work in the form of journals and industry relevant tasks such as character studies and funding applications, worth 20% of your final grade.