Level 3 · UAL · Full-Time · 1 year full-time
You want to act, properly. Not just read scripts in a classroom, but get up, perform to real audiences, and understand what it actually takes to work as an actor. This course is built around doing: 60% practical performance, live shows, and collaborative projects with other performers. You'll study techniques, practitioners, and scripts, and then put it all into practice in our performance spaces. Most students continue into Year 2 for the Extended Diploma, giving you two years of intensive training and a qualification that drama schools and universities take seriously.
Specialist acting training with live performance, script work, and 30 hours industry placement
Other courses you might be interested in:
Level 2 UAL Level 2 Diploma In Performing & Production Arts
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Level 3 UAL Level 3 Diploma In Performing & Production Arts – Musical Theatre
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You won’t be sitting in rows reading scripts. From day one you’ll be on your feet — learning techniques from practitioners like Stanislavski and Brecht, breaking down characters, and performing to live audiences. You’ll rehearse in our dedicated drama theatre, work with directors, and develop the ability to create a character and hold a stage. By your end-of-year collaborative project, you’ll know what it actually feels like to act — not just study it.
You’ll also complete 30 hours of work placement in a professional performing arts setting and build the critical skills that set you apart at audition. There are no sit-down exams — it’s 60% practical performance and 40% written coursework (reflective journals and research, not test papers). Most students go straight into Year 2 for the Extended Diploma, which carries UCAS points for drama school and university applications.
Written assignments, research projects, and case studies that let you explore topics in depth.
Hands-on tasks and practical demonstrations in realistic working environments.
Collaborative projects that develop your teamwork and communication skills.
Actors, entertainers and presenters sing, portray roles in dramatic productions, perform comedy routines, gymnastic feats and tricks of illusion, train animals to perform and perform with them, and introduce and […]
Arts officers, producers and directors assume creative, financial and organisational responsibilities in the production and direction of television and radio programmes, films, stage presentations, content for other media, and the […]
Events managers and organisers manage, organise and coordinate business conferences, exhibitions, concerts and similar events.
Job holders in this unit group perform a variety of other teaching occupations.
Rehearsal Space
Full-length mirrors, professional sound system, sprung floors. This is where you'll train, learn, and rehearse. It's your space from day one.
Drama Hall & Performance Space
A dedicated performance space where you'll rehearse and stage live shows for real audiences throughout the year. This isn't a classroom with the desks pushed back, it's a working theatre space where you learn what it actually feels like to perform under proper conditions.
Industry Guest Speakers
Every year we bring in working professionals from across the performing arts industry: actors, directors, choreographers, producers, and backstage specialists. They work directly with our students. You'll hear how they got started, what the industry actually looks like, and get honest advice from people who do this for a living. It's one of the things our students consistently say makes the course feel real.
Our students performing in our own drama hall
Student Voice
College has helped me become more open-minded and step out of my comfort zone. I’ve loved the opportunities, especially the work placements. I plan to follow my passion for performing. It’s been a great experience—I’ve learnt loads and made memories with amazing people.
Students are often surprised by how friendly and welcoming college is. It's a supportive community where they'll build genuine friendships and feel part of something.
About student lifeCollege is a big change. Our wellbeing team is here for every student — whether they need someone to talk to, help managing stress, or ongoing support. No referral needed.
Wellbeing supportIf your child needs to resit GCSE English or Maths, it's built into the timetable — not bolted on as an extra. They'll get structured support alongside their main course.
About student supportThese are nationally recognised qualifications with real academic weight. Your child will develop practical skills and knowledge that employers and universities genuinely value.
See the full unit listLevel
Level 3
Duration
1 year full-time
Study Mode
Full-Time
Awarding Body
UAL
Entry
4 GCSEs Grade 4+ inc. Maths & English
Assessment
Coursework + Practical Assessment + Group Work
Progression Routes
Route A: Level 3 Diploma (Year 1) → Extended Diploma (Year 2) → Drama School, University, or Employment
Applications for September 2026 are open. Apply online in 10 minutes.
Questions? Call free 0800 358 7575 or email dcinfocentre@don.ac.uk