About the course

The Pearson BTEC Higher National Certificate/Diploma in Performing Arts (Acting Pathway).

With an emphasis on practical and vocational work, students will hone their acting skills through workshop sessions and rehearsals, whilst taking part in major practical projects and public performances. Throughout their time on the programme, students will experience setting up, running and touring with a self-contained theatre company and will also enjoy access to productions and workshops both on campus and across the North West region.

The Pearson BTEC Higher National Certificate/Diploma in Performing Arts (Dance Pathway)

With an emphasis on practical and vocational work, students will hone their dance skills through technique sessions, choreographic creative exploration and rehearsals, whilst taking part in major practical projects and public performances, alongside having the opportunity to work with an industry professional on an intensive project. The course offers a comprehensive and balanced training programme designed to develop versatile, industry ready dancers through a wide range of practical and professional studies. Students also benefit from Industry and Professional Development, regular tutorials and one to one support.

The Pearson BTEC Higher National Certificate/Diploma in Performing Arts (Musical Theatre Pathway)

The BTEC Higher National in Musical Theatre is designed to prepare you for professional training and employment in the performing arts industry by combining practical performance work with academic study. You will develop a strong understanding of Musical Theatre as both a historical and contemporary art form, exploring key practitioners, styles, and productions. This knowledge will support your performance work and help you make informed, stylistically appropriate creative choices.

Throughout the course, you will be encouraged to generate, develop, and refine your own creative ideas through research, rehearsal, and reflection. You will learn how to analyse text, music, and character so that you can justify your performance choices and respond positively to feedback. This process will support your development of audition material, performance pieces, and creative projects, helping you to become a more independent and reflective performer.

You will build and apply technical skills across voice, acting, and movement, learning how to select appropriate techniques for different Musical Theatre styles and performance contexts. There is a strong focus on safe, effective practice and adaptability, ensuring you can perform with confidence and technical security across a range of genres.

Professional practice is embedded throughout the course, preparing you for the expectations of the Musical Theatre industry. You will be expected to demonstrate professional rehearsal behaviour, time management, and collaborative working skills, alongside developing an understanding of audition processes and current industry standards. Professional conduct is expected in both studio-based and academic work.

Clear communication is central to your training. You will develop the ability to articulate your ideas and creative processes through performance, discussion, and written work, using appropriate language and formats for different audiences. This will enable you to present yourself and your work confidently and professionally as you progress into employment or further study.

Start Date/s

14/09/2026

Entry Requirements

All applications are subject to an audition and interview before admission to the course. UCAS Points: 104 (equivalent to DMM in BTEC or BCC in A Level) or previous experience of 5 years of training in performing arts. Applications from individuals with non-standard qualifications, relevant work or life experience and who can demonstrate the ability to cope with and benefit from degree-level studies are welcome to audition for the course.

Modules

Assessment

On this course, students will be assessed in various ways. These include practically in rehearsals, workshops and final performance. The themes for these assessments will be a mixture of being set by the awarding body and Burnley College. This allows us to cover both contemporary and traditional contexts on this course to give a more holistic experience and better prepare students for the workplace or continued study. You will also be assessed in written form through presentations, reports, essays, websites and portfolio work. All students receive 1:1 time with tutors as well as academic study sessions in order to support with this aspect.

Careers & Progression

Graduates of this course will continue their studies on the Higher National Diploma in Acting, Dance or Musical Theatre where they can continue to create a bespoke course relating to the specialisms and career aspirations. This will then lead to a third year topping up to a full BA (hons) in Performing Arts or a specialist are of their choice.

Additional Details

Information About Fees

Full time Fees (1 Year) - £7250