Course Overview
The CertHE Musical Theatre is an intensive 28-week programme designed to develop your performance skills while supporting your progression towards further conservatoire training and opportunities within the creative industries. Through expert-led classes in acting, singing and dance, alongside integrated rehearsal projects, you will build strong technical foundations and learn how to combine these disciplines to create engaging musical theatre performances.
The programme is delivered through a single 120-credit Level 4 module studied over 28 weeks. Its linear structure enables technical training, rehearsal projects, academic study and professional development to build progressively throughout the course, with each stage preparing you for the next.
Across the programme, you will progress from ensemble-based performance work to increasingly challenging repertoire, building confidence, stamina and storytelling skills through practical projects and regular performance sharings. Alongside your studio training, you will develop the analytical, reflective and professional skills expected of Level 4 study through presentations, portfolio work and written assignments closely connected to your practical learning.
The focus then shifts towards audition preparation, professional identity and creative independence. You will prepare audition material, take part in mock audition experiences, develop a professional portfolio and explore a range of progression routes and career pathways. In the final stage of the programme, you will collaborate on a student-led creative project before participating in a professionally rehearsed public performance that brings together the technical, artistic and professional skills acquired throughout the course.
By the end of the programme, you will have strengthened your technical ability, performance confidence, creative independence and professional awareness, enabling you to make informed decisions about your next steps, whether progressing to further training or exploring wider opportunities within the creative industries.
The CertHE Musical Theatre is delivered through a practice-led approach that combines studio training, collaborative project work, academic teaching and independent study. Learning is designed to integrate practical experience with critical reflection, enabling you to apply academic knowledge directly to your performance practice.
Studio classes develop your skills in acting, singing and dance through demonstrations, guided practice, technical exercises and regular feedback. Project classes provide opportunities to apply these skills in rehearsal and performance, working collaboratively to explore musical theatre repertoire while developing communication, creativity and ensemble practice.
Academic teaching is delivered through lectures, seminars, presentations and tutorials, supporting the development of research, critical thinking and reflective practice. Independent study enables you to rehearse, prepare for classes, undertake research and complete written and portfolio-based assessments that draw upon your practical experience.
Throughout the programme, regular formative feedback from staff and peers supports your progress, helping you reflect on your development and prepare for both practical and academic assessments.
Throughout the CertHE, you will benefit from regular contact with experienced tutors who provide ongoing feedback to support your development. Assessment is integrated across the 28-week programme, enabling you to demonstrate your progress as your technical, creative and professional skills develop.
You will be assessed through a range of practical and academic activities, including performance projects, technical skills assessments in acting, singing and dance, presentations, written assignments, a professional portfolio and a reflective viva voce. Each assessment builds on previous learning, allowing you to apply your skills in increasingly challenging contexts as the programme progresses.
The programme culminates in a professionally rehearsed public performance, bringing together the technical, interpretive and collaborative skills developed throughout the course.
To be considered for the CertHE Musical Theatre, applicants must:
- Be aged 16 or over at the start of the programme.
- Hold GCSE English Language or GCSE English Literature at Grade 4/C or above (or an equivalent qualification).
- Successfully complete an audition and interview as part of the admissions process.
Applicants who are under the age of 18 at the point of entry are considered in accordance with the University of Portsmouth admissions policy for students under 18. Admission is subject to the University being satisfied that appropriate academic, pastoral and safeguarding arrangements can be put in place to support the applicant throughout their studies.
International Applicants:
Please note that we are currently unable to sponsor Student visas. As a result, we are only able to consider applicants who hold UK or Irish citizenship, have settled or pre-settled status in the UK, or have the right to reside in the UK without visa sponsorship.
Click HERE for further information on our application and audition process.
Supported Admissions Scheme: Laine operates a Supported Admissions Scheme which covers audition fee waivers and assistance with attending auditions. Click HERE for further information.
Click HERE for further information on fees and funding.
Click HERE for a list of frequently asked questions.
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