HNC/D in Performing Arts (Acting, Dance, Musical Theatre and Technical Theatre)

The HNC/D Performing Arts is taught by experienced industry professionals. You can choose between either the dance, acting, musical theatre or technical arts pathways, but you will study three mandatory units together.

Dance Pathway

• Ballet
• Jazz
• Commercial
• Choreography
• Investigation of Specialism

Acting Pathway

• Acting
• Voice and Speech for Actors
• Devising Theatre and Performance
• Acting for Camera

Musical Theatre Pathway

• Jazz Dance
• Singing and Ensemble Singing
• Acting
• Musical Theatre History and Practice
• Devising Theatre and Performance

Technical Arts Pathway

• Production Communication
• Stagecraft
• Lighting Operation
• Sound Operation
• Scenic Construction
• Crewing

You will also receive advice and guidance on applying to study at university for a BA (Hons) degree on a ‘top-up’ year.

Typically, you will need to have completed a relevant BTEC Extended Diploma course in a performing arts subject, OR 2 A Levels at grade C. The college also welcomes applications from mature students and students with relevant experience but without formal qualifications. Those already working within the creative industries who wish to obtain accreditation for their skills and to enhance them may also apply.

All prospective students will need to provide a personal statement prior to interview. You will then be interviewed and auditioned where you will need to perform either two contrasting monologues, two contrasting dances or a song and a dance, for each pathway, or a portfolio of evidence from working on various events.

This course is entirely coursework based. It is taught as separate units of study that explore different areas of acting or dance. You will be assessed continuously throughout the year as you complete each task within a unit of study. Tasks vary and include practical work, written reports, presentations and performances.

For more information, email performingarts@nscg.ac.uk

The HNC is equivalent to the first year at university and is a recognised Level 4 qualification. On completion of the HNC, students may choose to progress onto a HND which is is equivalent to the second year of a Bachelors degree. The HND course is offered subject to numbers.

On completion of a HNCD, you could then progress to dance or drama college, a ‘top-up’ degree at university or go straight into the profession as actors, dancers, directors, writers, choreographers, or stage managers. Further study would allow you to complete teaching qualifications.

There are two types of loans to help students cover the costs of their higher education course in college: tuition fee loans and living cost loans (also called maintenance loans). You pay these loans back when you finish your course and earn over £25,000. If you earn less than that, you won’t have to repay anything. If you’re earning more than that, we’ll work out your repayments at 9% of your income over that amount.

Maintenance loans are only available to students studying on a full-time basis. They are not available for students studying on a part-time basis. For more details visit nscg.ac.uk/finance

You can apply for an Advanced Learner Loan or Higher Education Loan to help with the costs of your course if you are 19 or older and the course you are studying is an eligible Level 3, 4, 5 or 6 course. If you have any queries with regards to the funding of your course, please contact Charlotte Robertson on 01782 254141 or email charlotte.robertson@nscg.ac.uk