skip to main content

HNC Performing Arts (general pathway)/ HND Performing Arts (acting pathway) (Level 4 / 5 Higher National Certificate / Diploma)

Pearson BTEC
Performing Arts

Course Overview

This dynamic, multi-disciplinary course offers a pathway to diverse careers both on stage and behind the scenes, including roles in community performing arts, broadcasting, dance, and professional theatre. Building on your prior qualifications and experience, the program enables you to enhance your skills in preparation for further studies at university level. The course is taught in the state-of-the-art Foyle Building, which features a 120-seat theatre, dressing rooms, stage craft room, costume store, rehearsal rooms and recording studios. Lighting and sound equipment are of the highest professional standards. Students have the chance to participate in numerous public performances, gaining valuable experience both on stage and in offstage support roles.
  • Start Date
    1 Sept 2026
  • Study Mode
    Full-Time
  • Duration
    1 Year (HNC) 2 Year (HND)
  • Campus
    Strand Road

Available Sessions

  • Course
    Campus
    Type
    Start Date
    Fees
  • Course: Pearson BTEC Level 4 / 5 Higher National Certificate / Diploma HNC Performing Arts (general pathway)/ HND Performing Arts (acting pathway)
    Campus: Strand Road
    Type: Full Time
    Start Date: 01/09/2026 (P)
    Fees:
    £2,500 per annum (subject to change)

Course Offering

  • Site location Strand Road

Course Modules

  • Professional development
  • The performing arts industry
  • Creative research
  • Sound Mixing
  • Lighting
  • Performance Project
  • Choreography 2
  • Auditioning
  • Directing
  • Acting 2
  • Acting 1
  • Acting for camera
  • Choreography 1
  • Stagecraft
  • Musical theatre history in practice (singing/ acting)
  • Dance for camera
  • Physical theatre
Want to book your place?
Apply Now

Entry Requirements

UK Requirements

32 UCAS Points plus satisfactory standard achieved at mandatory audition/ interview.

ROI Requirements

32 UCAS Points equivalent plus satisfactory standard achieved at mandatory audition/ interview.

Additional Requirements Prior to Entry

Interview Required

Work Placement

n/a

What's Next?

Further Study

Students can progress in to second year in a number of drama/performing arts degree courses at UCLAN, Queens, UU and into third year at University of West of Scotland. Previous students have also progressed to further study at LAMDA, RADA, Royal Birmingham Conservatoire and Mountview.

Career Prospects

Students can go on to work in a variety of areas within the arts including professional acting for stage and screen, backstage industries such as stage management, lighting, set and sound design and education.

Enquiry

  • Image of Tipsudar Cochrane
    I progressed from NWRC directly into final year of a degree programme at Glasgow School of Art, along with my twin sister.
    Tipsudar Cochrane
  • Image of Cian Fleming (Business)
    I got a lot of support at NWRC. I enjoy college life more than school because it offers greater freedom and you are treated like an adult.
    Cian Fleming (Business)
Your browser is out-of-date!

Update your browser to view this website correctly. Update my browser now

×