BA (Hons) Contemporary Theatre and Performance (Applied Acting and Devising) Bachelor's degree at West London
BA (Hons) Contemporary Theatre and Performance (Applied Acting and Devising) at West London was founded in 1990 and is delivered at The University of West London in Ealing and Brentford.
About this course
BA (Hons) Contemporary Theatre and Performance (Applied Acting and Devising) is a Bachelor's degree (BA (Hons)) at West London, based in Ealing / Brentford. It runs 4 years, studied full-time.
For Drama graduates from this provider, typical earnings around £24,000. (HESA Graduate Outcomes / LEO, via Discover Uni.)
For the typical curriculum, specialisations, career paths and graduate earnings for Music & Performing Arts, see the sections below.
Course evidence score
The arithmetic mean of the official measures available for this course: NSS satisfaction, graduate activity and continuation.
Published threshold met NSS publication requires sufficient responses; small differences are not a rank. NSS mean of 7 published themes (Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
Published threshold met Discover Uni suppresses continuation data below its publication threshold. Cohort 2022-23. Continuation 85% (2022-23; Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
Curriculum & modules
Real modules published for this course, grouped only where the source gives a year, stage or level.
Level 4 6 modules
- Drama/Theatre/PerformanceCompulsory
Module details
This module will discuss the importance of concepts, genres, and terminology. Beginning by focusing on the similarities and differences between drama, theatre and performance, and the tendency to interrelate these terms, the module then investigates dramaturgy in its broadest context and its increasing importance in the discipline today, particularly in terms of socio-cultural, political, and socio-geographical contexts. The module is taught through seminars and lectures, and you will be encoura
- Drama WorkshopCompulsory
Module details
Working through practical workshops, this module will encourage you to create a community of practice that develops your skills in creative collaboration, group creativity and team innovation. You will develop skills in communication, concentration, cooperation, collaboration, and commitment. The module further focuses on structuring drama. You are encouraged to reflect critically on your development. This module establishes the fundamentals of workshop practice and the collective essential for
- Performing TextsCompulsory
Module details
This module will look at the various approaches to analysing texts in preparation for performance. You will look at a variety of texts from varying genres, historical periods, and geographic locations. You will be encouraged to work with texts that affirm your identity, drawing from the rich heritage of work. The module encourages you to explore and develop an understanding that will prepare you for advanced work further in your studies. The work on this module dovetails with your work on Prepar
- Preparation for PerformanceCompulsory
Module details
In this module, you will explore a range of approaches to actor training. The module will work with an integrated approach to voice and movement, working towards embodying performance. The module encourages you to explore different approaches and to evaluate in terms of establishing your practice. The module evolves from the sense of the self and identity and allows you to use this as the frame to explore your practice. The work on this module dovetails with your work on Performing Texts, giving
- Socially Engaged TheatreCompulsory
Module details
This module encourages you to create a socially conscious performance using your workshop and acting skills. The topic is dependent on the demographic of the group and topical issues. The module encourages you to have a voice and to use it effectively. Projects could, for example, focus on marginalised communities, human rights, gender, and identity. You will be guided through working from stimulus texts and ideas, shaping narratives and the dramaturgical work in preparing the piece for performa
- The Actor's InstrumentCompulsory
Module details
The module works with you to introduce the fundamentals of voice and speech, and movement for the actor. An integrated workshop approach allows you to work on each aspect separately and then integrate them to enhance and embody your practice.
Level 5 6 modules
- Acting as StorytellingCompulsory
Module details
This module will be taught alongside Voice and Movement for Performance. This module will introduce you to the art of storytelling, both live and through introductory screen acting classes. You will explore a variety of approaches to developing and performing stories. Through practical exercises, you will experiment with form, ritual, and narrative. The emphasis in this module will be on the actor's role in storytelling, focusing on nonverbal behaviour and ensemble working in both live and recor
- Voice and Movement for PerformanceCompulsory
Module details
This module introduces you to voice and movement work as actors. It will explore the role of the voice and body in creative storytelling with a focus on self-discovery and growth. Tutors will support you in identifying less efficient vocal and physical habits. You will learn exercises to support flexibility and range within this. Additionally, this module focuses on removing blocks, confidence-building, and teamwork. You will learn more about collaboration techniques and inclusive practices, and
- Theatre HistoriesCompulsory
Module details
This module introduces you to contexts and histories which shape contemporary theatre-making, focusing on the development of theatre and performance as a practice and as a discipline. It offers a historiographic approach to field using performance forms as cultural phenomena and a lens to view the world. You will begin to identify and critique historical sources and information as you begin your journey into developing your own creative voice as recipients of the legacies of theatre and performa
- Directed ProjectCompulsory
Module details
The emphasis of this module will be focused on developing an understanding of how to create a performance from page (text) to stage. You will be led by an industry professional, learning appropriate rehearsal strategies and ensemble performance methods to prepare a play script or cultural text for performance. There will be an opportunity to stage the performance in either a conventional performance space or in an external site or venue, depending on the nature of the project. You will learn how
- Creating CharacterCompulsory
Module details
In this module, you will begin to explore character creation, working with both stage and screen approaches. We'll be working on intercultural approaches to building character here, considering the ethics involved in creating and performing a character, and how to take on and release a character performance safely. You will have the opportunity to work on a range of contemporary texts, written for both stage and screen. We will begin by working on characters 'closer' to the self (in terms of age
- Performing CharacterCompulsory
Module details
This module continues the work of the Voice and Movement for Performance module in semester one. The focus here will be on character creation and in developing the ability to respond in character to the given circumstances, vocally and physically. It continues the focus on inclusive working practices, team-building and collaboration. In this module you will additionally be supported in reflecting on your practice, and identifying how you might improve less efficient habits.
Level 6 1 modules
- Performing Heightened TextCompulsory
Module details
In this module, you will have the opportunity to work on heightened text, such as Shakespeare or Restoration Comedy. You will learn about the associated performance styles and how to approach the language form in performance. Working with a professional director, you will have the opportunity to perform in a (cut) full-length production of a heightened text that will be performed to external audiences.
Source: provider course page. Modules can change; required/optional status, credits, descriptions and assessment are shown only when explicitly published.
Course in depth
What this course covers, who it suits and where it leads.
What you'll study
You'll study the practice and principles of contemporary theatre and performance through applied acting and devising. A course like this typically moves from foundational performance skills and ensemble work in the first year through to deeper specialisation and final projects. You'll usually explore performance technique, script analysis, and collaborative devising methods. As you progress, you'll engage with specialist pathways such as performance, composition, or performance-based research, alongside professional development in the theatre industry. By the final year, you'll typically undertake a major project or public performance that demonstrates your integrated practice as both actor and creator.
Who it's for
This course suits students with A-levels or equivalent qualifications. Most accepted students held A-levels or equivalent, typically with a UCAS tariff of 112–127 points. You'll study in English and engage with both theoretical frameworks and hands-on performance work. The programme is designed for those committed to developing practical and analytical skills in contemporary theatre and performance contexts.
Careers & job market
Nationally, 90% of Music and Performing Arts graduates are in work or further study within 15 months of graduating. Of those working, 55% are in highly skilled roles or pursuing further study. Graduate earnings across the field range from £20,000–£28,000 at the 15-month point, £15,725–£22,200 after three years, and £19,975–£28,200 after five years. These are national figures from Graduate Outcomes and LEO data, not university-specific guarantees. First-year continuation stands at 85% across the student cohort.
University & format
The University of West London is a university located in Ealing and Brentford. This is a full-time, 4-year BA (Hons) degree taught in English. The University of West London is a recognised UK degree-awarding body, so your degree will be nationally recognised. The university received a Silver award for teaching quality in the Office for Students' TEF 2023.
Student satisfaction
How students on this course answered the National Student Survey, by theme.
Share of students responding positively.
Published threshold met NSS publication requires sufficient responses; small differences are not a rank. NSS mean of 7 published themes (Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
Applicant information
The next application dates for this course, followed by facts the provider publishes.
- 2027 entryCompleted applications can be submitted
Your application needs a reference before you can send it.
- 2026 entryFinal date for 2026 applications
Applications must reach UCAS by 18:00 UK time.
- 2026 entryLast day to add a Clearing choice
Check that this course still has a vacancy before adding it.
- 2027 entryEqual-consideration deadline
18:00 UK time for most undergraduate courses.
Show 5 later dates
- 2027 entryUCAS Extra opens
Applicants who used all five choices and hold no offer may be able to add another choice.
- 2027 entryLast day applications go directly to providers
Applications received after 18:00 UK time are entered into Clearing.
- 2027 entryClearing opens
Eligible applicants can see vacancies and release themselves into Clearing.
- 2027 entryFinal date for 2027 applications
Applications must reach UCAS by 18:00 UK time.
- 2027 entryLast day to add a Clearing choice
Check that this course still has a vacancy before adding it.
Entry & how to get in
Who gets in
What recently admitted students actually held, official admissions data, not a stated requirement.
UCAS tariff of entrants
Grades are the A-level equivalent of each points band. Tap a band to check your own chances below.
Qualifications held on entry
| Qualification | Share |
|---|---|
| A-levels or equivalent | 90% |
| another higher-education qualification | 5% |
| a Baccalaureate | 5% |
| No / unknown prior qualifications | 5% |
Entry & your chances
An honest read from the official entry data, plus your personal match.
Entry is set by the university and based on your offer. Use your predicted grades to see how you compare, then check the university's stated requirements.
Will you get in? Plot your grades
Pick your predicted A-levels and watch your UCAS points land on the real spread of students admitted to this course.
Each bar is the share of admitted students in that UCAS-points band (lower → higher). Grades show the A-level equivalent.
Based on the official admitted-student tariff distribution. Many universities make contextual (reduced-grade) offers, so a result below the range doesn’t rule you out.
How to apply
Undergraduate applications go through UCAS. Here’s what matters for this course, the right deadline, the grades to aim for, and the steps in order.
- 1Register on UCAS Hub
Create your UCAS application and add this course (code W498). One application covers up to five choices.
- 2Write your personal statement
A single statement covers all your choices, so keep it broad enough for similar courses while showing genuine interest in this subject.
- 3Submit by 13 January 2027, 18:00 UK time
UCAS equal-consideration deadline for most undergraduate courses. Source: UCAS 2027 dates.
- 4Reply to your offers
When decisions are in, pick a firm (first) choice and an insurance (back-up) choice with slightly lower grades.
- 5Results day & confirmation
On results day (mid-August) your place is confirmed if you meet the offer. Just missed? Talk to the university, or find a place through Clearing.
Fees & funding
What this course costs and how UK student finance covers it.
Tuition per year
Provider fee page (England 2026/27 cap where not stated).
Check fees at West London →For students who normally live in England
2026/27 Student Finance England figures. Maintenance support is means-tested and this two-point view is not an entitlement calculator. The course total uses its published length and home fee where both are available; a missing full-time fee uses the clearly labelled England-cap scenario, while part-time fees and unknown lengths are never guessed. Use the official calculator. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland use separate systems: SAAS, Student Finance Wales, and Student Finance NI.
Starting on or after 1 January 2027?
The Lifelong Learning Entitlement is a separate system. A new learner’s tuition entitlement is currently stated as £39,160 (about 480 credits at 2026/27 fee levels), subject to prior study and eligibility. Check the official LLE guide.
Paying for it
- Tuition Fee Loan: can cover eligible tuition up to the applicable limit and is paid straight to the provider.
- Maintenance Loan: up to £10,830/yr away from home outside London (England, 2026/27), means-tested on household income.
- Repayment: 9% of income above £25,000, nothing below it; written off after 40 years.
- Earn alongside: most students work part-time in term, part-time roles on the StudySmarter job board.
England figures shown; Scotland, Wales & NI run their own schemes, check gov.uk.
Scholarships & bursaries you could qualify for
That does not mean no funding exists. Check the university directory for current amounts, eligibility and application dates.
We only display a named award when its provider source identifies the award and who it is for.
Still deciding what to study?
StudyKit brings course choice, applications and funding together in one place, with a personal AI assistant. Find what really fits you and start your UCAS application step by step.
Careers & earnings
What Music & Performing Arts graduates actually earn, from real outcome data, 15 months, 3 years and 5 years after graduating.
Graduate earnings: this course
| When | Median | Typical range | Graduates |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 months after | £24,000 | £20,000 – £28,000 | 1875 |
| 3 years after | £18,500 | £14,500 – £22,000 | 20 |
| 5 years after | £24,500 | £16,500 – £34,000 | 20 |
Nominal earnings for graduates of this course/subject at this provider. Stronger evidence. Published sample: 1,875. Cohort 2021-22.
Graduate outcomes, 15 months on: this course
- 1Graduate roleFirst role after the degree · 0–2 yrs
- 2Specialist / PractitionerWorking in music & performing arts · 2–5 yrs
- 3Senior / LeadLeading work and people · 5–10 yrs
- 4Head of / ExpertSenior leadership or deep expertise · 10+ yrs
How pay grows: this course vs Music & Performing Arts nationally
National figures for Music & Performing Arts graduates, HESA Graduate Outcomes (15 months) and the Longitudinal Education Outcomes (LEO) dataset (3 & 5 years). These are national, not university-specific; actual pay varies by employer, region, role and experience. Different cohorts, so the bars are not one group over time.
Work out your pay
Headline figures hide a lot. Calculate realistic take-home pay for this field by role, region and experience, then check your CV before you apply.
What happened to 100 students?
Choose an outcome to translate the published percentage into a simple 100-person view. Each dot represents one percentage point, not an individual tracked student.
continued or completed
continued into the next year or completed their qualification
Source: Discover Uni, using Graduate Outcomes and continuation data. Cohorts: 2022-23. Stronger evidence. Published sample: 1,875. Cohort 2021-22. Each tab is a separate published measure; categories can overlap and should not be added together.
Value compared with similar courses
How this course’s 5-year median earnings compare with Music & Performing Arts courses at the same study level.
Compared with 527 courses with compatible official earnings data. This is a course-value comparison, not a quality ranking.
Job market & outlook
How Music & Performing Arts graduates fare in the labour market, and how AI is reshaping the work.
How AI is changing the work
AI doesn't replace the profession, it shifts it: routine tasks get automated, while judgement, working with people and using AI well become more valuable.
What AI takes off your plate
- Routine information gathering
- First-draft writing and summaries
- Standard analysis and admin
- Repetitive processing tasks
More human than ever
- Judgement and original thinking
- Working with and leading people
- Owning and sense-checking AI output
- Ethics and accountability
The strongest graduates pair subject depth with the ability to use AI tools critically.
Roles & employers
Where Music & Performing Arts graduates typically go, indicative destinations from graduate career data. Each role links to live openings on the StudySmarter job board.
Roles graduates go into
Where they work
- Orchestras & ensembles
- Schools & conservatoires
- Studios & venues
- Media & freelance
Jobs after this course
Current roles from the StudySmarter job board that suit Music & Performing Arts graduates.
Music Tech Beta Liaison & Support SpecialistinMusic Brands, Inc.Music QTSColmore Education Recruitment LtdMusic Teachers in HuddersfieldAcademicsMusic Rights Operations & Data Services LeadPPLMusic Engagement Officer - Alternative Provision · Coventry MusicMusiceducationukMusic Audio & Tech Support Desk SpecialistMandarin RecruitmentIs this course right for you?
The essentials UK applicants ask about: finance, outcomes, entry and quality.
Student finance
For comparison, the standard full-time England tuition cap is up to £9,790 per year in 2026/27; the actual fee varies by course and provider. If you normally live in England, eligible students can apply for a Tuition Fee Loan, plus a Maintenance Loan for living costs. Under Plan 5 you repay 9% of income above £25,000, nothing below that, and the balance is written off after 40 years.
Where graduates go
Most graduates were in work or further study, with a median salary of £24,000. See the full breakdown in Careers & earnings above.
Your entry chances
Use the UCAS points calculator above to see how your predicted grades compare with admitted students, and whether a contextual offer could apply.
Official-data snapshot
Averaging the official measures published for it, this course scores 8.3 out of 10: NSS 80.9% · continued 85%.
Who studies here and in this subject?
Provider- and UK subject-level context.
The University of West London
Design, and creative and performing arts across the UK
HESA student record 2024/25. Counts are rounded.
Local crime-data context
A neutral snapshot around the published teaching location.
Around Ealing / Brentford
2,092 street-level reports returned within roughly one mile across 2026-04 to 2026-06.
Police.uk street-level API. Approximate locations, not confined to campus. England, Wales and Northern Ireland; not Scotland.
Is Music & Performing Arts right for you?
Tick what applies to you and see how good a fit it is.
International students
What applying to West London from outside the UK involves: fees, English, visa, funding and living costs.
Tuition fees
International tuition is £16,250 / year for this course (from the provider’s fee page). You’re not eligible for UK Tuition Fee or Maintenance Loans, so plan for fees plus living costs upfront.
English language
Most UK undergraduate courses ask for around IELTS 6.0–6.5 (no band below 5.5–6.0), or an accepted equivalent. If you’re just short, most universities run a pre-sessional English course that counts towards the requirement.
Student visa
You’ll usually need a Student visa (Student Route). After you accept an offer the university issues a CAS; you then show funds for fees plus about £1,023–£1,334/month living costs and pay the Immigration Health Surcharge for NHS access.
Scholarships & funding
Many universities offer international/global scholarships (often £2,000–£6,000/yr), check West London’s funding pages.
Living costs
Budget roughly £1,100–£1,400/month outside London and £1,400–£1,800/month in London for rent, food and travel; the figure also matters for your visa.
Working while you study
A Student visa usually allows up to 20 hours/week in term time and full-time in holidays, useful alongside study, though not something to rely on for fees.
Visa rules and fees change. Always confirm the current requirements with West London and gov.uk before you apply.
Related courses
More at West London
Music & Performing Arts at other universities
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BA (Hons) Creative Industries Futures (including Foundation Year)ACMCommon questions
How competitive is entry?
What are the entry requirements?
What do graduates go on to do?
What will it cost me?
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