MA Acting

• Year 1

• Core modules

  • Dramaturgy for Actors (MACT702)

    Integrated with level 6 online 'Dramaturgy' module, students on this module will share some learning resources and experiences with final year BA students of the Directing programme. Rich blended-learning utilising online tasks and webinars is complemented by face-to-face tutorials and the development of practical performance work from play-texts.

  • Actor's Digital Profile (MACT704)

    This module will focus on exploring the different digital strategies and platforms, which serve to challenge and extend students' existing knowledge base and digital practice. This module is employment focused, using a part digital blended learning model to teach students key online materials to enhance and support their professional profiles and their personal brand.

  • Solo Showcase (MACT705)

    Being able to conceive, develop, market, promote and perform a tech-light one-hander show suitable for any festival or small-scale theatre venue is an invaluable employability skill, and this module facilitates the development of this skill through a 'real world' performance opportunity. Working with staff you will develop a full length one-hander to be performed either at Theatre Royal Plymouth Lab or The House Studio theatre which will showcase your performance abilities and which you can parlay into further professional employment, extending your audience and collaborator networks.

  • Advanced Acting Workshop (MACT706)

    Advanced Acting Workshop provides students with a rich and highly practical learning experience with fora and tutorials alongside the practitioner-led training classes, teaching European laboratory theatre approaches to actor training and the craft and practice of acting.

  • Philosophies of Training (MAPT703)

    A seminar based, research focused module in which students digest and analyse critical theory and philosophy in relation to varied training practice. In addition to skills acquisition, engagement with a form of training is also regarded as a means of self-development and improvement, and this is perhaps the emergent ideology of the contemporary. Students will learn about the historical and ideological components of training regimes and examine the politics, ideologies and concepts that define the notion and activity of training.

Every postgraduate taught course has a detailed programme specification document describing the programme aims, the programme structure, the teaching and learning methods, the learning outcomes and the rules of assessment.

The following programme specification represents the latest programme structure and may be subject to change:

MA Acting programme specification 6950

The modules shown for this course or programme are those being studied by current students, or expected new modules. Modules are subject to change depending on year of entry.

Our audition process is inclusive and accessible, and completely free. Applicants should submit a ‘showreel’ (all common media file formats are acceptable) comprising footage of two pre-selected audition pieces (max. 3 minutes each) and a personal statement (max 2 minutes). Up to 10 minutes additional showreel material can be included professional projects. Applicants will normally hold a 2:1 degree or above from a UK university, or equivalent professional experience. Candidates without a first degree will have to demonstrate evidence of a sustained engagement in relevant professional practice. Applicants need not necessarily hold an undergraduate degree in a theatre-related subject in order to apply.

IELTS score of 7 or equivalent required for overseas students. View our English language requirements. 

Accredited Experience Prior Learning (APEL) and Accredited Certified Prior Learning (APCL) up to 60 credits /equivalency will be considered on a case by case basis. Submission of additional showreel and a professional CV, as well as 500 word contextualising statement would be required in this case.

Initial enquiries should be made to the Programme Leader, Dr Alex Cahill (alex.cahill@plymouth.ac.uk). 

When to apply
Most of our taught programmes begin in September. Applications can usually be made throughout the year, and are considered until programmes are full.

Before you apply
Familiarise yourself with the information required to complete your application form. You will usually be required to supply:

If you require further information take a look at our application guidance. 

Disability Inclusion Services
If you have an impairment, health condition or disability, learn about the additional support the University provides.

International students
Support is also available to overseas students applying to the University from our International Office. Take a look at our how to apply information or email admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.

Submitting an application
Once you are happy that you have all of the information required you can apply using our online postgraduate application form (the blue 'Apply now' icon on this page). 

What happens after I apply?
You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeksof us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview (which in the case of overseas students may be by telephone or video conference) and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.

We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail. 

If you would like any further information please contact the Admissions and Course Enquiries team:

Admissions policy
More information and advice for applicants can be referenced in our admissions policy which can be found on the student regulations, policies and procedures page. Prospective students are advised to read the policy before making an application to the University.