We are in the process of finalising our postgraduate taught courses for 2026/27 entry. In the meantime, you can view our 2025/26 courses.
Develop your acting skills and gain a critical understanding of modern theatre with our BA Acting and Performance course.
You’ll explore diverse approaches to acting and performances and develop your craft through the study of plays, performances, films, influential theories and practical methods.
On this performance degree, you’ll learn from experienced tutors, professional practitioners and collaborate with theatre companies. Your course combines acting training with the opportunity to create original performance work.
Our Department proudly subscribes to the industry-leading BAFTA Albert scheme, which supports film-and-television makers in their efforts to work sustainably and limit their environmental impact. By studying with us you'll join one of the UK’s leading Universities in Environment and Sustainability’ Ranked 4th in the world in the People and Planet University Awards 2024/25.
At Reading, we’ll help you develop as an actor. Our lively Department of Film, Theatre & Television offers a creative, supportive and collaborative environment.
You’ll benefit from:
You can also join the Reading University Drama Society - an inclusive and welcoming space for everyone - and take part in their yearly showcase, 24-hour shows and major productions, recently including Much Ado about Nothing and High School Musical.
You’ll have access to a range of incredible industry-standard facilities at Reading, where you'll explore and experiment.
Our purpose-built Minghella Studios will be your home for the duration of your acting and performance degree. A place to create and collaborate with your peers and visiting practitioners.
The studios offer extensive facilities, including:
As you explore these industry-standard facilities, you’ll be supported by experienced and enthusiastic technicians and practitioners. They’ll provide hands-on advice, along with creative and technical guidance.
You’ll work with theatre companies, associated artists, and creative professionals to gain insight into the world of performance. We have strong industry connections at the local, regional and national levels. We work closely with a range of theatre partners, including Reading Rep Theatre, Rabble Theatre, and South Street Arts Centre.
Reading is one of the fastest-growing hubs in the UK's screen industry and the University is one of the founding members of Screen Berkshire, a partnership with Berkshire-based film production companies and studios like Shinfield Studios (hosts to the recent filming for Netflix’s Bridgerton, Disney’s Star Wars: The Acolyte, and Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire).
By studying at Reading, you can benefit from these connections, with opportunities including:
As a student or graduate, you can join Equity as an Education and Training member and receive a discount on the membership fee while still enjoying the benefits.
You will be assessed throughout your course. We will assess your practical skills, through live and recorded performances, group work, showreel and course work. Further written course work will evaluate your non practical skills.
In your third year, you will complete a module dedicated to professional development, preparing you for life after graduation. We will support you in:
Instead of a dissertation, you will create and host a major production, directed by a professional director and performed in front of a live public audience. This production will give you the opportunity to demonstrate the skills and theories you have learnt throughout your course.
There is an option to take a four-year degree with a placement year to gain extended industry experience and expand your professional networks. You'll be supported in finding your placement by your tutors, our industry contacts and partnerships.
Another way to gain skills, widen your understanding and make connections, is through an optional micro-placement. By studying with us, you’ll have access to our extensive network across the creative industry both locally and nationally for work experience. For example, some self-generated opportunities might include spending time shadowing an actor or director on a production at the Rabble Theatre.
