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University Level

BA (Hons) Musical Theatre

Award
BA (Hons)
Awarded By
University of Gloucestershire

course overview

The BA (Hons) Musical Theatre programme places a strong emphasis on practical learning and training, providing you with an immersive environment that encourages you to embark on creative experimentation. Within this dynamic setting, you will have the opportunity to stretch the boundaries of your artistic imagination. Our goal is to guide you in refining your skills, moulding you into versatile triple-threat performers, innovative creatives, adept choreographers, and visionary theatre-makers, finely attuned to the ever-evolving demands of the performing and creative industries.

With a strictly limited number of places available each year, this intensive and demanding degree empowers you to directly apply your training in practice, immersing yourself in a diverse range of live projects, captivating theatrical productions, and fully immersive experiences. On average, students engage in a minimum of three performance projects annually. Throughout your time at BIPA, you'll discover that learning extends beyond the confines of the studio. You'll have the chance to dive headfirst into real-world scenarios, applying your skills and techniques in practical settings that mirror the challenges of the entertainment world.

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19+ Advanced Learner Loan - Helping you cover tuition fees.
Students 19+ at the start of the course may qualify for an Advanced Learner Loan. These loans help you to pay the tuition fees. Most students aged 19 and over will qualify for these loans from the UK Government. It’s easy to apply, your household income isn’t taken into account and there’s no credit check. You won’t have to pay anything back until your income is over £25,000. Please note, there is no maintenance element to the Advanced Learner Loan, therefore students would need to be able to cover personal, living and travel expenses and any associated additional costs.

2025 Application Information
Full-time Fee (Per Year):
£9,000
Full-time Duration:
3 Years
Part-time Fee (Per Year):
£4,500
Part-time Duration:
6 Years
Start Date:
September 2024
UCAS Application Code:
W312
UCAS Institution Code:
S55 (SGS)
Award:
BA (Hons)
Programme Lead:
Duration:
1 Year
Additional Fees:
Please see fee table below
APPLY VIA UCAS (FULL-TIME)APPLY ONLINE
(PART-TIME)APPLY ONLINECOURSE CLOSED FOR APPLICATIONS
ENQUIRY ONLY

MODULES

Year One / level 4
AT4004
Actor Training
This module uses a variety of approaches to actor training, developing your skills of voice, movement and characterisation and applying them to a range of texts which require a psychologically realistic performance. This module will introduce you to a range of historical and contemporary actor training techniques through practical and theoretical exploration of the pedagogies of key practitioners. Physical, vocal and imaginative training will be the core aspect of this module as you develop the skills needed to be a good performer.
MT4001
Dance Technique
This module aims to develop your dance technique in appropriate styles to enable you to perform in a variety of contexts Ballet, Jazz and Tap will be the core dance styles taught but other styles may be introduced as appropriate.
MT4002
Musical Theatre Skills
This module aims to examine the conventions and traditions of British and American Musical Theatre through research, practical examination and performance of examples from musical theatre repertoire. There will be opportunities to study and perform extracts of traditional work with the aim of exploring the structure and relationship between song, dance and libretto in a variety of musical theatre styles.
MT4003
Performance Development
This module builds on previous modules by continuing to explore the conventions and traditions of British and American Musical Theatre through research, practical examination and performance of a full-scale production from the established Musical Theatre repertoire.
Year Two / level 5
MT5001
American Musical Theatre
The aim of this module is to develop your knowledge and understanding of the historical discourse of American Musical Theatre, enabling you to apply contextualised ideas to performances. You will be supported to perform extracts from, and engage in a full production of, a piece that relates to your studies. Technical skills will be developed alongside your studies to ensure you are well prepared for the selected roles.
MT5002
Musical Theatre Performance
The aim of this module is to develop your professionalism as a performer by demonstrating engagement in the planning and preparation related to a successful performance. You will develop an understanding of the ideas underpinning the concepts that led to the development of key texts within the Musical Theatre performance space; and you will develop your ability to work successfully in relation to fellow performers on a Musical Theatre production. Your research and conceptual learning will inform your performances, both of extracts and a full production, with a focus of the module being your engagement in the entire process, from the selection of a piece to rehearsal and final performance.
MT5003
Acting for Screen
This module will help you develop a critical vocabulary relating to the concepts and contextual understanding required for performance to camera. It will provide an opportunity to develop the technical skills necessary for onscreen performance as-well as developing your practical experience in the rehearsal and conclusion of a short project involving performance for screen.
MT5004
Workshop Leadership
This module aims to develop your understanding of how to apply a range of methodologies to your own workshop creation and develop additional resources to support the project aims. You will consider a range of related theory, leadership styles and influential thinkers which will facilitate a deeper understanding of the creative process of workshop design.
Year three / level 6
MT6001
Contemporary Musical Theatre
In this module you will critically research and explore the work and approaches of innovative practitioners such as Stephen Sondheim, Jason Robert Brown, Matthew Bourne and John Doyle. You will contribute to, and perform, an original interpretation of a contemporary Musical Theatre piece that has been created since 1980. You will be encouraged to explore alternative approaches to movement, music, acting and staging.
MT6002
Major Performance
In this module you will be able to apply your Musical Theatre skills to a major performance project. This will take the form of a full-scale production of a musical chosen by the tutor, either from established repertoire or a new composition. You will consider the demands and requirements made on a performer by the style, structure and context of the production.
MT6003
Professional Practitioner
Upon entering the industry you will find that actors, theatre makers and dancers are expected to have a working knowledge of the mechanics of creating, preparing and producing performances to tour. This module aims to prepare you for the role(s) you may be expected to fill in order to have a successful career as an independent practitioner. As well as choosing appropriate texts or performances, you will be expected to research and choose venues, market to a target audience, fundraise if necessary and liaise with venue contacts to produce and deliver a touring performance.
MT6004
Practical Research Project/ Dissertation
You will identify an area of practice, a practitioner or an equivalent negotiated aspect for research. This research is intended to be closely relevant to your own area of practice. You will, through negotiation with your dissertation supervisor, identify an appropriate topic of interest and undertake in depth research to produce either: 1. A formal written dissertation of 5,200 words. OR 2. An identified research project that would lead to a practical outcome (e.g. a performance) supported by a critical and evaluative text of 2,600 words. Both pieces will require a research proposal to be submitted in the first semester to help ensure the research design is appropriate and well researched.
Year One / level 4
AT4004
Actor Training
This module uses a variety of approaches to actor training, developing your skills of voice, movement and characterisation and applying them to a range of texts which require a psychologically realistic performance. This module will introduce you to a range of historical and contemporary actor training techniques through practical and theoretical exploration of the pedagogies of key practitioners. Physical, vocal and imaginative training will be the core aspect of this module as you develop the skills needed to be a good performer.
MT4001
Dance Technique
This module aims to develop your dance technique in appropriate styles to enable you to perform in a variety of contexts Ballet, Jazz and Tap will be the core dance styles taught but other styles may be introduced as appropriate.
MT4002
Musical Theatre Skills
This module aims to examine the conventions and traditions of British and American Musical Theatre through research, practical examination and performance of examples from musical theatre repertoire. There will be opportunities to study and perform extracts of traditional work with the aim of exploring the structure and relationship between song, dance and libretto in a variety of musical theatre styles.
MT4003
Performance Development
This module builds on previous modules by continuing to explore the conventions and traditions of British and American Musical Theatre through research, practical examination and performance of a full-scale production from the established Musical Theatre repertoire.
application information
Entry Requirements
Fees & Costs
How to Apply

We understand that every individual is unique and we are committed to ensuring that every applicant has an equal opportunity to pursue their passion. We have a comprehensive policy of equal opportunities for students, where individuals are selected and treated based on their relevant merits and abilities.

typical offer/entry requirments
  • UCAS Tariff - 96
  • GCSE English - 4/C
  • GCSE Maths - 4/C
  • Interview/Audition - Yes


You can achieve 96 UCAS Tariff points in various ways.  We encourage applications from students who have studied BTECs, T Levels, A Levels, Access to Higher Education and many other qualifications. As a guideline, here are some combinations that will get you the required 96 UCAS Points to study one of our undergraduate programmes.
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  • A Level - CCC
  • BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma - MMM
  • BTEC Level 3 National Diploma - DM
  • UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma in Performing & Production Arts - M

We welcome mature students (aged 21+) without our typical offer/entry requirements to apply, applicants will be assessed on individual merit and their previous experiences.
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Individuals whose first language is not English are required demonstrate an acceptable minimum level of competence in English through the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) (Band 6.5).

When it comes to pursuing a higher education programme, the investment you make is significant. That's why we are committed to helping you take charge of your finances by providing the necessary support. As an undergraduate student, you will face two major expenses: tuition fees and living expenses. We understand the challenges that come with managing these costs and we're here to assist you every step of the way. As we're part of SGS, you will be eligible to apply for SGS higher education bursaries and scholarships.

Start Date
Programme
UCAS Code
Fee (UK)
per year
Fee (International) 
per year
September 2024
BA (Hons) Musical Theatre
W312
£9,000
£13,250
September 2025
BA (Hons) Musical Theatre
W312
TBC
TBC
*subject to approval
additional costs

During your programme, you'll be required to purchase various items, such as scripts, equipment, and kits that will aid your studies and contribute towards both UK and overseas trips. Additionally, we encourage you to attend numerous professional performances and engage in activities that prepare you for industry. The specific details regarding these additional costs may differ each year and between programmes. The most up-to-date information will be provided in your offer letter.

The application process varies depending on your country of residence and the level of the course you wish to pursue. To assist you with your application, we've provided comprehensive information on this page about how to apply through UCAS, how to apply as an EU or international student, how to apply as a mature student, or how to make a direct application for specific courses.

don't forget we're part of SOUTH GLOUCESTERSHIRE AND STROUD COLLEGE AND THEREFORE YOU'LL NEED TO SEARCH FOR 'SGS' ON UCAS WHEN APPLYING.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
I'm currently at School or College and want to study at BIPA full-time, how do I apply?
UCAS.com manages the applications of students in all schools and colleges in the UK, as well as a limited number of institutions abroad. In order to apply through your current educational institution, you will need to acquire a "buzzword" from your tutor or career adviser, which will identify the organisation you are applying from and enable your referee to include a reference in your application. Once you have completed the application, you must submit it to your referee who will then forward it on your behalf.

To cover the application fee, you can either pay online with a credit or debit card. The cost of applications is £20 for a single choice and £26 for two to five choices.
I'm a mature student (21+) and want to study full-time
We welcome mature students on all our degree courses. If you possess experience in a field related to the course you are interested in, we are willing to evaluate your application on its unique merits, even in lieu of typical academic entry requirements. If you are unsure of your eligibility, we encourage you to contact our admissions team and provide them with a summary of your qualifications and experiences. They will carefully review your submission and provide you with guidance on your next steps.

All applications from UK mature students for full-time undergraduate courses are made through UCAS.com, to cover the application fee, you can either pay online with a credit or debit card. The cost of applications is £20 for a single choice and £26 for two to five choices.

I'm an International student
We accept international applications on all our degrees. However, please note that courses are very competitive with places filling up quickly, so we recommend applying as early as possible. You should be aware that students requiring a student visa to travel to the UK for their course are bound by CAS request deadlines.
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We strongly recommend you contact us directly to discuss applying as an international student before submitting an application. Once we've discussed your application we will prompt you to complete an application.
I would like to study part-time
You'll need to apply through our website for part-time study. You can only apply for one part-time course at a time and once you start your application you'll need to complete your application. (You can't save your progress and come back to it). Therefore, we recommend you set aside 20-25 minutes to fully complete a part-time application.
I can't find you on UCAS
As we're part of SGS, try searching 'South Gloucestershire and Stroud College' or 'SGS' on UCAS when submitting your application. Once you've selected SGS on UCAS all of our courses will appear and you'll be able to select your preferred course. You'll also be able to select the location as 'Bristol Institute of Performing Arts'.
Entry Requirements
Fees & Costs
INTERVIEW

We understand that every individual is unique and we are committed to ensuring that every applicant has an equal opportunity to pursue their passion. We have a comprehensive policy of equal opportunities for students, where individuals are selected and treated based on their relevant merits and abilities.

typical offer/entry requirments
  • Successful completion of a Level 3 qualification such as an Extended Diploma (Merit)/A Levels (C)/T Level (M) or equivalent
  • GCSE English - 4/C
  • GCSE Maths - 4/C
  • Interview - Yes
  • Students need to be 18+ at the start of the course

We welcome mature students (aged 21+) without our typical offer/entry requirements to apply, applicants will be assessed on individual merit and their previous experiences.
‍
Individuals whose first language is not English are required demonstrate an acceptable minimum level of competence in English through the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) (Band 6.5).

19+ Advanced Learner Loan - Helping you cover tuition fees.
If you're 19 or older you may qualify for an Advanced Learner Loan. These loans help you to pay course tuition and assessment fees.
Most students aged 19 and over will qualify for these loans from the UK Government. It’s easy to apply, your household income isn’t taken into account and there’s no credit check. You won’t have to pay anything back until your income is over £25,000. Please note: there is no maintenance element to the Advanced Learner Loan, therefore students would need to be able to cover personal, living and travel expenses and any additional associated costs.

Start Date
Fee (UK)
18 and under
Fee (UK)
age 19+
Funding options for
age 19+
Materials Fee (all students)
September 2025
W312
Free
£4,670
Advanced Learner Loan
£620
Fees are calculated by students age on the 31st of August.
additional costs

During your programme, you'll be required to purchase various items, such as scripts, equipment, and kits that will aid your studies and contribute towards both UK and overseas trips. Additionally, we encourage you to attend numerous professional performances and engage in activities that prepare you for industry. The specific details regarding these additional costs may differ each year and between programmes. The most up-to-date information will be provided in your offer letter.

Prospective applicants must be prepared to undergo an interview as part of the entry requirements for the course. During the interview, you will have the opportunity to discuss their past experiences, future ambitions, and elaborate on relevant skills. While we encourage you to bring examples of their previous work, experiences, designs, or projects as potential talking points, it is not mandatory. The interview serves as an opportunity for you to convey your unique experiences and aspirations, providing a holistic understanding of your suitability for the course.

Facilities

a campus designed to stand out

3 acting studios
Each of our acting studios offers soft flooring and black-out curtains/blinds, Bluetooth speakers and large presentation TV screens.
6 dance studios
Filled with natural light and well-ventilated, our six dance studios are equipped with ballet barres, Bluetooth sound system, and premium Harlequin dance flooring.
2 Rehearsal studios
Our rehearsal studios are adaptable spaces that can quickly be transformed for production and group rehearsals, singing workshops, and movement spaces.
2 academic rooms
Our academic rooms are designed to facilitate lectures, tutorials, and contextual studies. These dedicated spaces are equipped with a bank of laptops and presentation facilities.
OLYMPUS THEATRE
Our Olympus Theatre has been producing and receiving theatre on a local and regional scale since opening in 2005 and its cultural and creative significance has exceeded expectations. Students will feel at home performing in our 250 seat auditorium, which is home to over 30 productions a year.
STUDIO THEATRE
Our 80 seat Studio Theatre is our most diverse performance space, with fully flexible seating accommodating a variety of production design styles. This 'black box' space is designed for intimate productions, showcases and cabaret performances.
scenic workshop
Our workshops are designed to cater to a variety of interests and skill levels, offering students the necessary tools and equipment to bring their creative designs to life. In the scenic arts workshop, students have access to a wide range of equipment, from traditional woodworking tools to advanced computer-aided design software.
tv studio
Based on campus in the Brunel Centre, the state-of-the-art green screen studio enables high-quality video content production for online and offline audiences.
Costume & props store
With over five thousand costume pieces ranging from period to contemporary, our collection offers limitless possibilities for bringing our productions to life. Additionally, our prop store houses hundreds of prop pieces.
fitness gym
Located within the Brunel Centre, our state-of-the-art on campus gym boasts stations for cardio, strength, and conditioning training, all set in a welcoming and serene environment. To ensure a safe experience, students are required to undergo an induction and reserve their training sessions through SGS Sports dedicated Strength and Conditioning (S&C) department.
Library plus+
At LibraryPlus+, you'll find a collaborative learning environment that is enhanced by the expertise of our dedicated staff in information finding, referencing, and digital technologies, as well as an extensive collection of theatre history, make-up, costume and theatre arts books, along with plays, scores, journals, and research resources.
starbucks hub cafe
The 'Hub' is the beating heart of our campus serving a range of hot and cold food throughout the day and evening. This lively hub is more than just a place to grab a bite, its a place to unwind and socialise.
Jack Maurice
He/Him
Artistic Director & Head of Bristol Institute of Performing Arts
Jake Aston
He/Him
Programme Lead Commercial Dance for Stage & Screen / Lecturer in Dance & Choreography
Alice Ettle-Iles
She/Her
Lecturer in Commercial Dance & Jazz
Annie Duggan
She/Her
Stage & Screen Combat Instructor
Corey Jones
He/Him
Lecturer in Voice, Performance & Musical Theatre
Derek Nelson
He/Him
Associate Lecturer in Performance for Screen
Dr Elizabeth Philps
She/Her
Programme Lead Acting and Touring Theatre & Lecturer in Contextual Studies
Elian West
She/Her
Lecturer in Musical Theatre Performance & Professional Practitioner
Grace Martinson
She/Her
Musical Director & Lecturer in Vocal Performance
Holly Smith
She/Her
Lecturer in Dance Technique & Performance
Lauren Davies
She/Her
Lecturer in Voice Pedagogy & Musical Director
Matt Richardson
He/Him
Musical Director & Lecturer in Vocal Technique
Natalie Champion
She/Her
Lecturer in Dance Technique
Stu Mcloughlin
He/Him
Lecturer in Performance & Producing
Valerie Voisey
She/Her
Lecturer in Dance Technique & Performance

"The guidance and mentorship provided by the lecturers has been invaluable"

"My time at BIPA has been an incredible journey of personal and technical growth. I have enjoyed the range of experiences offered within the course and the work has challenged me to think critically both as a performer and creative. The guidance and mentorship provided by the lecturers has been invaluable, pushing me to my full potential. I have developed not only a strong foundation in performing but also a newfound confidence in my abilities. This course has not only equipped me with the skills and knowledge necessary for my future career but has also shaped me into a well-rounded and self-assured individual. I am immensely grateful for this journey and the countless opportunities it has presented me."
Jordan
BA (Hons) Musical Theatre