Bachelor of Performing and Screen Arts (Acting for Screen and Theatre)
Course details
| NZQF Level | 7 |
|---|
About the course
Working in an environment that is framed by the values of our Te Noho Kotahitanga partnership, you will learn practical and professional skills in an environment of wrap around support.
Throughout the three years of training, you will be challenged to strengthen your capacity for expression in your body and voice, while working to deepen your understanding of character. You will also build the professional skills you need, not only to get jobs and make your own work, but make ends meet as a working artist.
Highlights
- Numerous opportunities for live and screen performance.
- A vibrant collaborative environment that includes dance, screen arts, design and contemporary arts.
- Close links to the live performance and screen industry
- 30 years training experience with a rich history of successful graduates, many of whom are now influencers and leaders in the industry.
- Masterclasses, workshops and projects led by local and international practitioners
- Strong international connections.
- Pathway to Postgraduate Diploma in Creative Practice or Master of Creative Practice.
Programme Structure
Year One: Begin to develop core skills in voice, movement, singing, and acting for screen and stage. Apply new skills in scene work and collaborations with screen students. Dive into Mātauranga Māori and Māori performing arts, as you start to discover who you are as an artist.
Year Two: Deepen your skills in acting, voice, and movement. Perform publicly and collaborate with other students on screen and live performance projects. Work on specialized skills including accents and audition technique. Expand your knowledge of the industry and how to operate as a professional actor. Explore other creative practices through electives including writing for comedy, hybrid art, and more.
Year Three: Apply your learning in master classes, scripted live performance, screen work, and devised theatre while engaging in industry secondments and professional skills development. Work towards entering the industry with excellent relationships, skills, and professional practices.
Auditions
Each year we have a large number of applicants for the 24 places offered in Year One.
If you’re not sure that you’re ready to audition for this highly competitive programme yet, please look at the New Zealand Certificate in Study and Career Preparation (Level 4) – Screen Arts, Acting and Technical Production, which is a semester-long (full-time) programme designed to help upskill students who are interested in progressing to the degree.
Career Options
- Actor for theatre, film and television
- Theatre deviser/creator
- Presenter
- Performing arts manager
- Acting trainer/teacher
Annual Tuition Fees
Domestic/NZ students
$11,500(NZD)
(Approximate fees only - includes GST but excludes the Compulsory Student Services Fee (CSSF) levy. Your final study costs depends on a number of factors including the courses you select to study. View options for funding your study and fees-free eligibility)
International students
$26,415 (NZD) (approximate fees for 120 credits) Save up to $2,000 (NZD) with the Unitec International Study Grant 2026. Terms and conditions apply.
Semester Dates
Sem 1 2026: 23 Feb – 28 Jun
Sem 2 2026: 20 Jul – 22 Nov
For course and class timings, refer to the specific course webpage.
For StudyLink purposes, please ensure your application states your earliest course start date.
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Downloads and resources
Programme regulations - Bachelor of Performing and Screen Arts (Acting for Screen and Theatre) Order a personalised brochure Scholarships and awardsStudent LifeFor Māori studentsFor Pacific studentsFor International students
Entry requirements
You must have completed at least one of the following:
- At least 3 ‘C’ passes in the New Zealand University Bursaries Examinations; Or
- 42 credits at NCEA Level 3 or higher including:
- 14 credits in two different approved subjects; and
- 14 credits from up to two subjects (approved or non-approved)
- 14 credits in NCEA Level 1 or higher in Mathematics or Pangarau
And meet one of the English entry requirements;
- University Entrance Literacy: 8 credits at Level 2 or above in English or Māori (4 in Reading, 4 in Writing); or
- Evidence of English language proficiency as outlined in the NZQA Rules on the Unitec English Language Requirements for International Students Web-page.
Don’t meet these Academic requirements?
- If you don’t meet the academic criteria, our Bridging Education Programmes can help you qualify. Simply apply online, and we’ll discuss your next steps.
- If you don’t meet the above criteria, special or discretionary admission may apply (PDF, 731KB); your eligibility will be determined at the interview.
Non-academic requirements
- Complete a medical declaration form.
- Interviews, submissions, and/or auditions will be required – we’ll notify you of what is required.
About the provider
Unitec is New Zealand’s largest institute of technology offering a wide range of work-oriented programmes and short courses. We offer leading employment-focused education at our two campuses in Mt. Albert, and Waitākere. At Unitec we think the traditional view of spending hours in a lecture theatre is out-dated. And that's why we approach learning differently. With our unique combination of world-class theory and hands-on experience, you'll get the skills to meet the changing needs of employers. And because our tutors are industry-based, they know what it takes to make it in the real world. We offer a friendly and diverse learning environment with flexible study programmes, lots of support, and hands-on experience to build the skills you need for your career and your future.