The BA (Hons) Top-up in Performing Arts: Musical Theatre is an innovative new programme. Located in brand new, purpose built facilities of a professional standard, the course prepares students for employment, further study and self-fulfilment within a wide field.
An emphasis on 'state of the art' contemporary practice will be a feature of the course, with regard to industry developments and curriculum content; ensuring that students are acutely aware of current professional demands and likely developments within their industry. Professionals currently working in the industry will play a significant part of the curriculum delivery in order to ensure that student contacts and professional links are developed.
The course combines contextual elements with en extensive concentration on practical skills, and will appeal to those hoping to work in performance. Teaching and learning will take place via lectures, seminars, tutorials, workshops, presentations and performances.
The course (delivered over one year) comprises of two semesters. The first semester (September - January) will focus on Professional Practice, and student will study alongside other students on the BA (Hons) Top-Up course in Performing Arts: Drama in order to develop transferable skills. Students will also complete a minor project that will help in the further development of performance skills, team work and production. Towards the end of the first semester, students will begin work on their specialist route, pre-planning for their final major project.
In Semester 2, students will complete their final major project, which accounts for 60 credits of the 120 credit course. This major project will be carefully monitored and the project will replicate industry experience, including performing a production in front of a live audience, as well as being responsible for all aspects of the production.
All of the modules have been designed (after discussions with industry specialists) to offer specialist study, but also allow a broader context for the subjects, ensuring students are able to cope with an era of convergence in media, music and performing arts in general.
From 2021/22, university level fees at The Sheffield College will be £7,500 per year.
Teaching Team
The teaching staff have wide ranging expertise both as higher-education academics, and in individual specialisms. Some colleagues are working towards Fellowships of the Higher Education Academy. In addition, specialist practitioners (who are experts in their areas such as dance and music techniques) are involved in the delivery of the course. Guest lecturers will also offer a variety of specialist and focused sessions.
Composition of the Course
Time in College
There are 450 scheduled delivery hours for the course, plus performances of rehearsed work in November and March. This includes rehearsal time, workshops, lectures, seminars and tutorials.
Self-Directed Study
It is expected that students will spend around 450 hours in rehearsals, research and self-directed study time.
Feedback
Formative assessment is continuous throughout the projects, with summative feedback given after each assignment.