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HNC in Performing Arts (Acting, Dance, Musical Theatre and Technical Theatre)

NSCG Newcastle College

Knutton Lane, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire, ST5 2GB

HNC/HND/Higher Education Awards
Level 4
Arts, Media and Publishing

Available start dates

Available start dates

Thursday, 01 October 2026
NSCG Newcastle College
1 Year(s)
Full time
Daytime/working hours

Course Summary

Unleash your potential and set the stage with our�HNC/D in Performing Arts. Our tailored pathways offer students the opportunity to specialise in dance, acting, musical theatre or technical arts.Whether you're honing your skills on stage, behind the scenes, or in the studio, this program provides students an excellent foundation for�diverse careers in the performing arts industry.

Course Details

The HNC/D Performing Arts is taught by experienced industry professionals. You can choose between either the dance, acting, musical theatre or technical arts pathways, but you will study three mandatory units together. Dance Pathway BalletJazzCommercialChoreographyInvestigation of Specialism Acting Pathway ActingVoice and Speech for ActorsDevising Theatre and PerformanceActing for Camera Musical Theatre Pathway Jazz DanceSinging and Ensemble SingingActingMusical Theatre History and PracticeDevising Theatre and Performance Technical Arts Pathway Production CommunicationStagecraftLighting OperationSound OperationScenic ConstructionCrewing You will also receive advice and guidance on applying to study at university for a BA (Hons) degree on a �top-up� year.

How will it be delivered and assessed?

This course is entirely coursework based. It is taught as separate units of study that explore different areas of acting or dance. You will be assessed continuously throughout the year as you complete each task within a unit of study. Tasks vary and include practical work, written reports, presentations and performances.

Entry requirements

Typically, you will need to have achieved a minimum of�an overall merit in�a relevant BTEC Extended Diploma course in a performing arts�subject, OR 2 A Levels at grade C. The college also welcomes applications from mature students and students with relevant experience but without formal qualifications. Those already working within the creative industries who wish to obtain accreditation for their skills and to enhance them may also apply. All prospective students will need to provide a personal statement prior to interview. You will then be interviewed and auditioned where you will need to perform either two contrasting monologues, two contrasting dances or a song and a dance, for each pathway, or a portfolio of evidence from working on various events.

Your next steps...

The HNC is equivalent to the first year at university and is a recognised Level 4 qualification. On completion of the HNC, students may choose to progress onto a HND which is is equivalent to the second year of a Bachelors degree. The HND course is offered subject to numbers. On completion of a HNCD, you could then progress to dance or drama college, a �top-up� degree at university or go straight into the profession as actors, dancers, directors, writers, choreographers, or stage managers. Further study would allow you to complete teaching qualifications.

Additional information


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