Course Information

Bachelor of Arts (Acting)

Effective from 01-JAN-2024 : Code Y93

Studying acting at WAAPA is an inspiring and all-consuming experience. This degree produces graduates who are thoroughly prepared for a career in a wide variety of media, including theatre, television, film and radio, both in Australia and internationally. The course has evolved as an extensive conservatoire training program guided by a philosophy of discovery, application and embodiment, delivered at all times in a diverse and inclusive environment. The core innovation of the program is to unite rigorous skills-based actor training with local, national and international guest directors and organisations, to simulate real-life industry programs and productions. The combination of all these factors means that students graduate with more than just acting skills; they are self-determined, autonomous strategists who are resilient and elite performers at the top of their game.

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. Demonstrate broad and coherent knowledge of the theory, and methods encompassing the fundamental aspects of drama, acting, and theatre required for professional actors.
  2. Analyse the relationship between movement and acting in diverse contexts to successfully communicate knowledge and ideas in a variety of intentions and actions.
  3. Exercise critical thinking and judgement to identify and solve problems related to the research, rehearsal, development, and management of collaborative performance projects through effective preparation and performance.
  4. Review, analyse, and synthesise knowledge to adapt vocal use for a variety of acoustic environments or demonstrate intentions through movements to engage audiences.
  5. Demonstrate cross-cultural awareness, including awareness of Australian indigenous culture in relation to the creative industries, including the development and interpretation of media, design and visual culture.
  6. Adapt knowledge and skills in diverse contexts and genres to the rehearsal, production, technique, performance, management and evaluation of theatre ensemble productions.
  7. Demonstrate responsibility and accountability for own learning through reflective analysis of performances in rehearsals and technical aspects throughout the performance season.
  8. Demonstrate methods and philosophies of acting through creative resourcefulness to judge plan, solve problems and make decisions in auditions, rehearsals and performances.
  9. Collaborate in the production of works of creative expression for public display with the ability to evaluate team processes and outcomes.
  10. Apply innovation through the development of original products, using information, numeracy and technology literacy skills.
  11. Apply and evaluate principles of sustainability and global perspectives in problem solving related to creation, the exploitation of intellectual property and other issues relevant to creative industries.

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. Entry into this course is talent-based, and prospective students will be comprehensively assessed through an audition process which is held in November-December each year. Australia-wide auditions are conducted in Perth, Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane. Overseas students are assessed by auditions sent electronically. The audition includes a thorough assessment of inherent and trainable ability, the ability to meet the technical requirements of the course and suitability for the industry.

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

Performances and rehearsals may include evenings and/or weekends.

Course Coordinator

Ms Samantha CHESTER

Course Structure

Year 1 - Semester 1
Unit Code Unit Title Credit Points
ACT1101Acting Skills 115
ACT1102Foundations of Performance: History and Context15
ACT1003Foundations of Movement for an Actor15
ACT1004Discovering the Performer's Voice15

Note: ACT1102 Foundations of Performance: History and Context is a full-year unit.

Year 1 - Semester 2
Unit Code Unit Title Credit Points
ACT1105Acting Skills 215
ACT1006 #Integrating the Skills of the Actor15
ACT1007Movement for the Actor15
ACT1008Words and the Body15
Year 2 - Semester 1
Unit Code Unit Title Credit Points
ACT2101 #Theatre Production 115
ACT2002Movement for the Actor 215
ACT2003Extending Vocal Knowledge15
ACT2104Acting Skills 315
Year 2 - Semester 2
Unit Code Unit Title Credit Points
ACT2105 #Theatre Production 215
ACT2006Movement for the Actor 315
ACT2007Dynamic Voice15
ACT2108Extending and Exploring Acting Techniques Through Character and Screen15
Year 3 - Semester 1
Unit Code Unit Title Credit Points
ACT3101 #Theatre Production 315
ACT3002The Creative Physical Actor15
ACT3003Professional Voice15
ACT3004Acting for Screen30

Note: ACT3004 Acting for Screen is a full-year unit.

Year 3 - Semester 2
Unit Code Unit Title Credit Points
ACT3105Professional Preparation: Business Skills15
ACT3106Theatre Production 415
ACT3108Professional Preparation: Audition Techniques15

# Designated Unit - a Unit or Unit of Competency which a School has designated as a fundamental course requirement and may only be attempted once unless otherwise determined by the School Progression Panel.


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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