BA (Hons) Acting & English

We offer the only combined actor-training and English degree in the UK, allowing you to develop your acting skills while studying English literature, giving you a firm knowledge base from which to work in either field.

Acting is the practical realization of text and is closely linked to the discipline of English. This unique combination of study will open up many options for work or further academic study. In addition, you’ll find; you’ll have a range of options, which will allow you to tailor the course to fit your particular interests, and have the chance to develop allied skills such as theatre directing.

Acting classes cover acting for both stage and screen. They will include substantial workshop performances and public productions in the final year, including the opportunity to present your own fully supported show at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. This course is aimed at those interested in both practical acting and English literature. You’ll enhance your performing skills to industry standard while studying English literature in its cultural-historical context. The course is split evenly between the study of English literature and the study of acting.

Suitable applicants will usually be invited to attend an audition and interview as part of the selection process. This applies to all years of entry. 

Our entry requirements indicate standard and Minimum qualifications with which we usually accept students. However, competition for places varies yearly, and you aren't guaranteed a business if you meet the minimum qualifications.

Audition and application

Your audition plays a big part in the selection process, but we are looking for a demonstrated interest in acting, whether in subjects at school or clubs, societies, etc. In addition, we're looking for passion, self-motivation, strong imagination, and a willingness to be open to new ideas. If you show potential in the audition and meet the academic criteria, we can offer you a place on our course.

The audition will be in three parts:

• a classical speech (Shakespeare) - we will send you a selection to pick from

• a two-minute devised piece that might reflect something about yourself

• a song to be sung, a cappella (like your best 16 bars of music).

Minimum year 1

SQA Higher

Standard Entry Requirement

BBCC, including Grade B in English.

Minimum Offer Entry Requirement

BCCC, including Grade C in English.

A Level

CCD, including Grade C in English.

Irish Leaving Certificate

H3, H3, H3, H3 at HL, including English.

HNC

Pass HNC in a relevant, performance-based subject, with a Grade B in the graded unit. A grade B in Higher English is also required.

BTEC (QCF) Extended Diploma Level 3

Minimum grades MMM (Merit, Merit, Merit) in a related subject. A grade B in Higher English is also required.

International Baccalaureate Diploma

Award of Diploma with 26 points overall with three HL subjects in grades 5, 5, and 5, including English.

T Level

Grade Pass

T Level must be completed in an English/Literary subject, or A Level English may be required.

Minimum year 2

SQA Advanced Higher

BBC, including Grade B in English.

A Level

BBB, including English.

HND

Pass HND in a relevant, performance-based subject, with a Grade B at SCQF Level 8 in all graded units.

A grade B in Higher English is also required.

20 hours per week