Course Overview
This programme is a two-year Higher National qualification designed to provide you with a strong vocational foundation in the skills, knowledge, and understanding required to perform at a high level within the global creative industries. It is ideal if you want to continue your education through applied, practical learning while preparing for the demands of a dynamic and fast-changing sector.
Developed to meet the needs of the contemporary creative industries, this programme allows you to explore performing arts through a focused pathway that supports progression into industry or further study. You will study the programme as two one-year stages, beginning at Level 4. On successful completion of the first year, you can progress to Level 5.
Throughout the programme, you will build on your existing experience in performing arts, musical theatre, and dance. You will study across a broad academic and vocational base, with your knowledge and skills developing progressively each year. In line with the awarding body specification, you will complete eight units in the first year and six units in the second year.
On successful completion of the Level 5 stage, you may progress to a university top-up course to achieve a full BA (Hons) degree. Alternatively, you may choose to enter employment, establish your own creative enterprise, or progress into a teaching qualification.
Entry Requirements:
64 UCAS points, IELTS Score: 6.5
Course Highlights
Validating Partners
This course is accredited by Hull College. It has been developed and quality assured by our experienced academic team, meeting rigorous standards to ensure a high-quality learning experience and a recognised higher education qualification.
HNC Performing Arts – Musical Theatre Pathway
In your first year, you will study the following units:
• The Performing Arts Industry
• Professional Development
• Jazz Dance 1
• Singing 1
• Acting 1
• Musical Theatre History in Practice
• Ensemble Singing
• Voice & Speech for Actors
Alongside these units, you will also take part in classes in musical theatre dance, fitness, acting for screen, and voice-over. These sessions help you further develop your performance skills and prepare you for progression to HND Level 5. Throughout the year, you will work towards live performances and creative projects linked directly to industry practice.
HNC Performing Arts – Dance Pathway
In your first year, you will study the following units:
• The Performing Arts Industry
• Professional Development
• Jazz Dance 1
• Ballet 1
• Commercial 1
• Tap 1
• Choreography 1
• Dance for Camera
In addition to these units, you will take classes in contemporary dance, fitness, house, and strengthening. These sessions are designed to support your technical development and prepare you for progression to HND Level 5. You will also work towards live performances and creative projects throughout the year.
Course Breakdown
Why Choose This Course
This programme combines high-quality practical training with industry-relevant learning, helping you develop both creative and professional skills. You will learn from experienced teaching staff who are vocational specialists. The programme places strong emphasis on live performance, creative projects, and professional development, giving you opportunities to apply your skills in realistic performance settings. You will also benefit from a supportive learning environment that encourages creativity, collaboration, and personal growth while preparing you for the expectations of the creative industries.
Progression & Next Steps
On successful completion of this programme, you can progress to a university top-up course to achieve a HND. You may also choose to enter employment within the creative and performing arts industries, establish your own creative enterprise, or continue your development through a teaching or performance-related qualification. The skills, experience, and professional practice developed throughout the programme prepare you for a wide range of progression routes within the creative sector.