Level 4 Professional Diploma in Theatre Sound Design & Operation

Award
Level 4 Professional Diploma in Technical & Production Practice for the Creative Industries
Awarded By
UAL Awarding Body

course overview

The Level 4 Professional Diploma in Theatre Sound Design and Operation is a comprehensive pathway that provides individuals with a fast-track career in the production industries. This programme provides a strong understanding of how to design, manipulate, and mix sound for live performances, ranging from plays, to musicals and experimental performances.

Throughout the programme you will acquire a range of technical skills that are essential for creating and manipulating sound in a live performance context. These include an understanding of sound equipment and technologies, signal processing techniques, and audio mixing software. Through hands-on training, you will gain the confidence and expertise necessary to work with sound equipment in a live performance environment. In addition to technical skills, the programme also emphasises the artistic and creative aspects of sound design. You will learn how to collaborate with directors, actors, and other members of the production team to create an immersive audio experience for the audience. They will explore the use of sound as a storytelling tool, and learn how to use sound to enhance the emotional impact of a performance.

By studying this course, you will develop a range of transferable skills that are highly valued in the creative industries. These include critical thinking, problem-solving, and project management skills. They will learn how to work collaboratively and communicate effectively with others, which is crucial in any professional context.

As you progress throughout the year, they will have the opportunity to work on larger and more complex projects, such as full-scale productions or collaborative projects with other departments, building a portfolio that showcases their skills and creativity. This hands-on experience will give them a competitive edge when entering the job market, and prepare them for a successful career in the theatre and live performance industries.

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.

2024 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:
UCAS Institution Code:
S55 (SGS)
Award:
Level 4 Professional Diploma in Technical & Production Practice for the Creative Industries
Programme Lead:
Duration:
1 Year
Fees:
Please see fee table below
APPLY VIA UCAS (FULL-TIME)APPLY ONLINE
(PART-TIME)
APPLY ONLINE
Applications for September 2025
open via UCAS on 3rd September 2024.
You can start your application now ahead of the opening date.
COURSE CLOSED FOR APPLICATIONS
ENQUIRY ONLY
Applications for September 2025 entry
open on our website on Tuesday 3rd September 2024.

MODULES

Year One / level 4
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Year Two / level 5
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Year three / level 6
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Year One / level 4
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application information

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.

  • 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.

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
Level 4 Professional Diploma in Theatre Sound Design & Operation
£9,000
£13,250
September 2025
Level 4 Professional Diploma in Theatre Sound Design & Operation
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.

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'.

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 2024
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
Chris OBrien
He/Him
Technical Theatre Course Lead & Lecturer in Production Arts
Dr Elizabeth Philps
She/Her
Programme Lead Acting and Touring Theatre & Lecturer in Contextual Studies
Jeremy CostelloRoberts
He/Him
Lecturer in Lighting & Technical Production
Tom Hatch
He/Him
Technical Theatre & Productions Officer