University of Adelaide

What you'll study

The program delivers practical and theoretical units across performance-making, acting, voice, movement, improvisation, ensemble practice and dramaturgy. In the early stages you build core skills in performance technique, script analysis and creative collaboration. Later units focus on professional practice: directing, devising original work, production development, and interdisciplinary projects that may include digital media, design and music.

Typical modules and learning activities include:

• Acting technique and character work
• Voice and speech training
• Physical theatre, movement and stage combat
• Devising and ensemble practice
• Scriptwriting and dramaturgy
• Stagecraft, production and technical awareness
• Performance workshop units and public presentations
• Industry placement, internships or collaborative projects with festivals and companies
• Theoretical units in performance studies, cultural contexts and research methods

Assessment typically combines studio work, performances, reflective journals, project portfolios and written assignments. The course encourages cross-disciplinary work with other creative arts disciplines and access to public performance opportunities.

Entry requirements

Admission is offered to applicants who meet the University of Adelaide's undergraduate entry standards. Domestic applicants are usually assessed on their secondary school results or recognised equivalents. International applicants are assessed on comparable tertiary entrance qualifications from their home country.

Because this is a practical performing arts specialisation, selection commonly involves an audition or interview, and sometimes the submission of a performance portfolio or short video excerpts. Applicants are expected to demonstrate commitment to performance practice and potential for development.

All applicants must meet the University's English language requirements. Recommended background preparation includes studies in English, drama, dance or related arts subjects, although mature-age applicants with relevant experience are also considered.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with practical performance skills, creative project experience and an understanding of the cultural context of performance. Career paths include:

• Actor, ensemble performer and voice artist
• Deviser, director or dramaturg
• Stage manager and production practitioner
• Arts producer, events programmer and festival worker
• Community arts coordinator and outreach practitioner
• Creative freelancer, company founder or independent maker
• Further study in postgraduate performance, pedagogy or research

Many graduates work across live theatre, television and screen, community and educational contexts, as well as in emerging platforms that blend live and digital practice. The degree also provides transferable skills valued by employers, such as collaboration, project management and public communication.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide combines university-level critical and academic study with intensive practical training in performance. Students benefit from working with academic staff who are practising practitioners and researchers, and from connections to the local cultural sector, including Adelaide’s active festival calendar and independent theatre companies.

The curriculum supports you to develop a professional portfolio through staged work, industry placements and collaborative projects. Facilities for rehearsal and performance, and opportunities to collaborate across creative disciplines, help bridge classroom learning and public practice. The program is suited to students seeking a rigorous, practice-based undergraduate training with clear pathways into professional creative life or further study.