Course Information

Bachelor of Arts (Music Theatre)

Effective from 01-JAN-2025 : Code G44

WAAPA’s internationally recognised Music Theatre courses provide graduates with the skills and experience to pursue sustainable and diverse careers in the performing arts. Music Theatre students are trained by WAAPA’s world-class teaching staff whose expertise have been honed through extensive professional practice. In this way, the industry meets the classroom and students can expect a rigorous and contemporary approach to practice and learning that challenges students to reach their full potential. The three-year, full-time Bachelor of Arts (Music Theatre) degree comprises intensive technical training in the areas of singing, dance, acting and musicianship that prepares graduates for the competitive nature of the performing arts. The study of these core skills is complemented by training in film and television, research and critical thinking, arts administration and grant-writing that diversifies the skill-base of graduates. Students have regular opportunities to explore and apply their creativity through the development of new and original works in various media, exposure to the creative team and process, and in projects with industry partners. Students practice their craft through classroom presentations and workshops, and collaborate with WAAPA’s Production and Design, Stage Management and Music students in staged productions of both chamber and full-scale musicals. As with all ECU courses, the Bachelor of Arts (Music Theatre) degree has an embedded technology-enhanced learning program, explicit instruction in digital literacy, cultural awareness, and communication skills relevant to the discipline and broader workplace.

Disclaimer

This course information may be updated and amended immediately prior to semester. To ensure you have the correct outline, please check it again at the beginning of semester. In particular please check the course requirements and the unit and unit set offerings, as these differ according to course delivery location.

Course Learning Outcomes

  1. Apply skills and knowledge of the theory, methods and techniques required of the professional performer in the context of musical theatre and related industries.
  2. Exercise critical thinking and judgement in researching theatrical works, whether existing or original, and preparing for theatrical performance.
  3. Employ creative thinking to anticipate and solve interpretive problems, generate new ideas and innovate in the adaptation and development of theatrical processes & practices.
  4. Use digital information and communication technologies, to support and develop own creative practice, to manage and promote a professional identity, and to access and engage with relevant sources of information.
  5. Communicate clearly and effectively in a professional context using appropriate disciplinary communication conventions.
  6. Demonstrate a global outlook and respect for diversity, including an enhanced ability to empathise, communicate and work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
  7. Work collaboratively with other professionals in various settings according to relevant standards of ethical conduct, sustainable practice and professional accountability.
  8. Exercise self-reflection, judgement and responsibility in developing artistic practice and planning for and managing personal and professional growth and development.

Admission requirements

Admission requirement (Band 3)

All applicants must meet the academic admission requirements for this course. The indicative or guaranteed ATAR is as published (where applicable) or academic admission requirements may be satisfied through completion of one of the following:

  • AQF Cert IV;
  • Successfully completed 0.25 EFTSL of study at bachelor level or higher at an Australian higher education provider (or equivalent);
  • Undergraduate Certificate;
  • Skills for Tertiary Admissions Test;
  • University Preparation Course;
  • Indigenous University Orientation Course; or
  • Experience Based Entry Scheme.

English Language requirement (Band 3)

English competency requirements may be satisfied through completion of one of the following:

  • Year 12 English ATAR/English Literature ATAR grade C or better or equivalent;
  • Special Tertiary Admissions Test;
  • IELTS Academic Overall band minimum score of 6.0 (no individual band less than 6.0);
  • Successfully completed 1.0 EFTSL of study at bachelor level or higher in the UK, Ireland, USA, NZ or Canada;
  • University Preparation Course;
  • Indigenous University Orientation Course;
  • AQF Diploma, Advanced Diploma or Associate Degree;
  • Successfully completed 0.375 EFTSL of study at bachelor level or higher at an Australian higher education provider (or equivalent); or
  • Other tests, courses or programs as defined in the Admissions Policy.

Course Specific Admission Requirements

All applicants are required to attend an audition. In accordance with ECU's Admissions Policy, applicants are required to participate in an audition process (or supply specific audition material) in order to demonstrate capability as required for the course. Additionally applicants must attend an interview. The audition and interview are comprehensive, information relating to requirements and procedures is available from WAAPA.

Portfolio pathway applications are not accepted for this course.

Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) level

This course has been accredited by ECU as an AQF Level 7 Bachelor Degree Award.

Course Duration

  • Full Time: 3 Years

Course Delivery

  • Mount Lawley: Full Time

Non standard timetable requirements

Students will undertake regular timetabled classes during teaching weeks and intensive modular projects in specialist areas. Rehearsals and performances for large-scale productions require some evening and weekend commitments outside regularly timetabled hours. Overall scope of commitment is confined to WAAPA’s timetable.

Course Coordinator

Mr Craig DALTON

Course Structure

Year 1 - Semester 1
Unit Code Unit Title Credit Points
MTH1101Vocal Technique and Music 115
MTH1201Music Theatre Dance 115
MTH1301Acting 115
ACT1102Foundations of Performance: History and Context15
Year 1 - Semester 2
Unit Code Unit Title Credit Points
MTH1102Vocal Technique and Music 215
MTH1202Music Theatre Dance 215
MTH1302Acting 215
MTH2402Music Theatre History15
Year 2 - Semester 1
Unit Code Unit Title Credit Points
MTH2001Vocal Technique and Music 315
MTH2201Music Theatre Dance 315
MTH2301Acting 315
MTH2401Music Theatre Texts and Context15
Year 2 - Semester 2
Unit Code Unit Title Credit Points
MTH2002Vocal Technique and Music 415
MTH2202Music Theatre Dance 415
MTH2302Acting 415
MTH2405Music Theatre Production 115
Year 3 - Semester 1
Unit Code Unit TitleCredit Points
Complete the following three units:
MTH3101Vocal Technique and Music 515
MTH3301Music Theatre Production 215
MTH3401Music Theatre Industry Readiness15
Plus, complete one of the following three units:
MTH3251 ^Music Theatre Dance Specialisation 115
ACT3003 ^Professional Voice15
MTH3402 ^Acting for Camera15
Year 3 - Semester 2
Unit Code Unit TitleCredit Points
Complete the following two units:
MTH3002Vocal Technique and Music 615
MTH3302Music Theatre Production 3 and Showcase30
Plus, complete one of the following three units:
MTH3252 ^Music Theatre Dance Specialisation 215
MTH3402 ^Acting for Camera15
PMA2003 ^Directing Workshop15
As an alternative to the third year 15 credit point core option units (MTH3251, ACT3003, MTH3252, MTH3402, PMA3003), students may complete the following 30 credit point unit. ACT3004 Acting for Camera is a full year unit running across Semester One and Semester Two.
ACT3004 ^Acting for Screen30

^ Core Option


Disability Standards for Education (Commonwealth 2005)

For the purposes of considering a request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Commonwealth 2005), inherent requirements for this subject are articulated in the Unit Description, Learning Outcomes and Assessment Requirements of this entry. The University is dedicated to provide support to those with special requirements. Further details on the support for students with disabilities or medical conditions can be found at the Access and Inclusion website.

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