Technical Theatre Arts BA(Hons)
Develop specialised skills in stage management, lighting, sound and visual technologies, while gaining a thorough grounding in all aspects of technical production.
Key details
| Location | Penryn Campus |
| Course Duration | 2 years |
| Attendance | Full-time |
| UCAS code | 206X |
| Contact | 01326 254350 |
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Introduction
This condensed two year course is highly practical and will equip you with the technical expertise to succeed in many diverse areas of the industry, whilst also empowering you to take a creative and proactive approach to your work.
You will:
- Work in purpose-built studios and performance spaces within AMATA, our stunning professional venue which has a year-round performance programme.
- Be taught by technical and academic staff who are also practitioners, as well as working with skilled technicians.
- Have placement opportunities in your final term with some of the UK’s leading theatre and production companies including Kneehigh and Wildworks, as well as music festivals and producers, theatre venues and tourism events throughout Devon and Cornwall.
What our students do
Course details
What you'll learn
We’ll explore stagecraft techniques, equipment, technology, and processes, as well as modern performance practices and the industry’s history. You’ll have the chance to take on junior roles on live performances, work on our Summer Schools, conferences, events and artist residencies, and gain nationally recognised health and safety training.
Modules
Stagecraft 1
Performance, Culture and Contexts
Professional Development
Stagecraft 2
Practical Production
Venue Management and Technical Standards
Digital Performance Technologies
You’ll have the chance to collaborate with other courses on a performance project, work with professional staff on events on and off campus, and take on a work placement with one of our professional partners. You’ll also work on written projects focusing on design, project management, or both.
Modules
Design Project
Collaborative Project
Production Management, Design and Realisation
Industry Horizons in Technical Theatre
Professional Practice Project
The modules above are those being studied by our students, or proposed new ones. Programme structures and modules can change as part of our curriculum enhancement and review processes. If a certain module is important to you, please discuss it with the Course Leader.
From module information to course aims and assessment criteria, discover the full course details
How you'll learn
Learning by doing, you’ll take on practical, self-led projects. You’ll also work with industry professionals, and gain nationally recognised qualifications in equipment use, processes, and health and safety. Industry contacts will regularly visit to demonstrate new products and prototypes, and there’ll be opportunities to work on showcases for Island Records.
How you'll spend your time
Year | Timetabled teaching and learning activity | Guided independent study | Placements |
1 | 45% | 50% | 5% |
2 | 45% | 48% | 7% |
How you'll be assessed
Year | Written exams | Practical exams | Coursework |
1 | 0% | 39% | 61% |
2 | 0% | 27% | 73% |
The above percentages relate to 2019/2020 data.
Assessment methods
- 70% practical assessment around skills, professionalism and competencies.
- 30% academic written and portfolio submission.
Staff
You’ll be taught and supported by a team of professional technicians, lighting and sound specialists, theatre-makers, directors, production managers, production-focused academics and industry guests. Our teaching staff all have a working background in the national and international theatre industry.
Sasha Dobrota
Sasha has been producing and managing cultural projects, experiences and events for the last...
Peter Hooper
Peter trained in Stage Management and Technical Theatre at the Guildhall School of Music &...
Paul Joines
Since graduating in ‘Broadcast Studies’ from Falmouth College of Arts in 1996, Paul has spent...
Facilities
- 11 equipped performance studios.
- Recording studio with four control rooms.
- 11 practice rooms.
- Computer labs for CAD and audio software.
- Scenery workshop.
- Technical resource stores stocking a wide range of microphones for recording and live voice and music.
- Digital Audio Workstations, PA Systems, mixing desks, lighting kits, portable dimmers, cameras, projectors, and musical instruments.
- TV Studio and Cinema in the School of Film & Television.
How to apply
Apply via UCAS
Ready to join us? If you're applying through UCAS Apply and Track, you'll need to reference the university and course codes below.
- University code: F33
- Course code: 206X
Applying as an international student?
International students can apply for a course through UCAS, via an agent or directly with the university. For more information about how to apply as an international student, visit our International applications page.
We consider all applications on their own individual merit and potential. We invite all applicants to an interview day or audition to give them the opportunity to demonstrate this along with what inspires and motivates them in their field. Applicants will also be able to show their portfolio or give a performance depending on the course. We welcome applications from all subject backgrounds, whether you’ve specialised in STEM, the arts or humanities.
As a guide our typical offer at undergraduate level is 104 – 120 UCAS Tariff points, primarily from Level 3 qualifications such as but not limited to A-levels, a BTEC Extended Diploma or a Foundation Diploma.
For applicants whose first language is English we require you to have or be working towards GCSE English Language Grade 4 (C), or equivalent.
If English is not your first language you will need to meet the same standard, which is equivalent to the IELTS Academic 6.0 overall score, with at least 5.5 in Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening. We accept a range of in country equivalencies and approved tests.
If you need a Tier 4 student visa to study in the UK, you’ll need to take an approved Secure English Language Test (SELT). You can read our English Language Requirements for more information.
UK/EU applications: 15 January 2020 (for equal consideration)
Late applications will be considered if there are places available.
International fee payers can apply throughout the year. But we recommend applying as early as possible, to make time for visa and travel arrangements.
Interview information & application advice
How to Apply
Get application information including personal statement advice, interview tips and what to include in your portfolio.
Portfolio Advice
What is a portfolio and how do you make one? Read our guide.
Personal Statement Guide
How do you write a personal statement and what should you include? Read our advice.
Interview Information: Technical Theatre Arts BA(Hons)
Find out what to expect from your Technical Theatre Arts interview.
After You Apply
Find out what happens after you apply to Falmouth and what you'll need to do.
What we're looking for
We want someone who:
- Can work hard over long hours - as is often required in the industry.
- Is professional and enthusiastic about live performance, technical theatre arts and similar industries.
- Can work in various environments and with a range of people.
Fees, costs & funding
Tuition fees 2020-21
£11,100 - full-time UK/EU
£19,000 - full-time international
Tuition fees are set annually and are subject to review each year. The University may therefore raise tuition fees in the second or subsequent years of a course, in line with inflation and/or the maximum permitted by law or Government policy. Students will be notified of any changes as soon as possible.
Typical course costs
- Public Programme season tickets (student rate) costs found: amata.org.uk/seasontickets
- Students are advised to come with a torch, adjustable spanner, manual screwdrivers, clothing appropriate for all practical classes. Students must come prepared with suitable personal protective equipment (PPE) protective footwear and gloves, we will provide further PPE (safety glasses, helmet etc) and power tools as required. Estimated Cost £100-£150.
- Opportunities to opt-in to partake in subsidised formal industrial training will be available at a reduced cost. Estimated cost £80-£150.
If you need to bring equipment or materials with you, these will be outlined in your Welcome Letter.
The figures above don't include accommodation and living costs
Funding
For the two-year, accelerated degree, students may be eligible for an amount of Long Course Loan in addition to the standard maintenance loan, from Student Finance. The exact amount of funding support you'll receive will be calculated by your regional funding body on application.
For further information about funding, please visit our undergraduate funding page
Ask a student
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