At a glance
24 mo
Duration
7.0
IELTS
€22k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- Two-year, full-time intensive programDuration
- Conservatoire model with 30-40 contact hours/weekTeaching Style
- Focus on European and British classical textsCurriculum Focus
- Eligibility for Federation of Drama Schools American Showcase (for American students)Showcase Opportunities
- Strong industry connections and experienced staffIndustry Links
- Located in Birmingham, UKLocation
The MFA Acting program at Birmingham City University is an intensive, practice-based course designed for graduates seeking to advance their acting skills and enter the professional acting industry. Following a conservatoire model, the program delivers 30-40 hours of teaching per week, focusing on developing intellectual, imaginative, and physical skills essential for a professional actor. Students form an acting company, engaging in exercises, workshops, and productions to progressively develop their craft. This two-year, full-time program is specifically designed with international students in mind, with a focus on European and British classical texts. It aims to foster independently-minded practitioners who can apply diverse methodologies and create their own employment opportunities within the industry.
Curriculum
The MFA Acting course is delivered intensively over two years, focusing on developing the imaginative, intellectual, and creative skills required for acting. The curriculum includes acting for the camera and voice-over work.
- Year 1
- Ensemble work
- Psychological Realism tools
- Demands of classical texts
- Professional preparation
- Foundations for personal research
- Extended Shakespeare workshop (MFA only, 3rd term)
- Year 2
- Major Project (personal research and creative development)
- Three productions (challenging and developing ensemble and individual work)
- Acting for the camera
- Voice over work
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the MFA Acting program?
- You need a 2:2 or equivalent Honours degree in a related subject such as Acting, Drama, or Performing Arts, along with essential previous performance training. Applicants with degrees in other disciplines or relevant professional experience will also be considered. Admission is by audition.
- What is the English language proficiency requirement for international students?
- International students must achieve an IELTS score of 7.0 overall, with no less than 7.0 in Speaking and 6.5 in the other bands.
- How much does the MFA Acting program cost for international students?
- The tuition fee for international students is £18,970 for the 2026/27 academic year. This fee includes tuition, examination costs, Students' Union membership, access to equipment and software, and essential field trips.
- How long is the MFA Acting program?
- The MFA Acting program is a full-time, intensive course that lasts for two years.
- How do I apply for the MFA Acting program?
- Applications are made through UCAS Conservatoires. You will need to register, complete the application form in English, provide referee details, pay application and audition fees, and attend an audition.
- When is the application deadline for the MFA Acting program?
- Applications are typically due around the 1st of October in the year prior to entry, for example, October 2025 for September 2026 entry. Early application is advised.
Entry requirements
Honours degree2:2 or equivalent in a related subject (e.g., Acting, Drama, Musical Theatre, Performing Arts, English and Drama). Applicants with degrees in other disciplines or relevant professional experience will also be considered. Previous performance training is essential. Admission is by audition.
IELTS7.0 overall, with no less than 7.0 in Speaking and 6.5 in other bands
The university welcomes applications from individuals who may not meet normal entry requirements but possess appropriate performance skills and professional experience. Only a limited number of students are selected each year. Applicants should apply for only one Royal Birmingham Conservatoire postgraduate acting course per application cycle.
Fees
Tuition (international)£18,970 for the 2026/27 academic year. Fees for subsequent years may increase with inflation (capped at 5%). This includes tuition, examination costs, Students' Union membership, access to computer equipment, £5 print credit per year, essential field trips, Microsoft Office 365, key software (SPSS, Nvivo), key journal subscriptions, and essential playscripts.
Tuition (home)£12,880 for the 2026/27 academic year. Fees for subsequent years may increase with inflation (capped at 5%).
LivingAs part of your Student Visa application, you must show proof of sufficient funds for your first year of study.
Course fees do not cover project materials for the Major Project, which students are advised to keep minimal. The University provides theatre space and technical support for productions but does not cover personal project costs.
How to apply
1. 1. Register with UCAS ConservatoiresGo to the UCAS Conservatoires website and register by entering your personal details. A username will be generated, and you will choose a password. Make sure to note these down for future logins.
2. 2. Login and complete your applicationLogin to UCAS Conservatoires with your username and password. You can work on your application, save it, and return later. The application must be completed in English. For UK applicants, select 'Royal Birmingham Conservatoire' as the assessment method.
3. 3. Provide referee contact detailsNominate one referee who can comment on your academic and/or musical ability. This person should know you well and be able to assess your suitability for higher education. References from family or friends are not accepted. The university will contact your referee directly if a reference is required.
4. 4. Pay application and audition feesThere is a one-off application fee of £28.95 payable to UCAS upon submission. An additional non-refundable audition fee of £80 (or £120 for a double audition) for 2025 entry onward is collected through the UCAS system and payable to the Conservatoire. Payments can be made online via credit or debit card.
5. 5. Attend an auditionAdmission to this course is by audition. You will receive details and advice about auditions and interviews after submitting your application.
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the MFA Acting program?
+
You need a 2:2 or equivalent Honours degree in a related subject such as Acting, Drama, or Performing Arts, along with essential previous performance training. Applicants with degrees in other disciplines or relevant professional experience will also be considered. Admission is by audition.
What is the English language proficiency requirement for international students?
+
International students must achieve an IELTS score of 7.0 overall, with no less than 7.0 in Speaking and 6.5 in the other bands.
How much does the MFA Acting program cost for international students?
+
The tuition fee for international students is £18,970 for the 2026/27 academic year. This fee includes tuition, examination costs, Students' Union membership, access to equipment and software, and essential field trips.
How long is the MFA Acting program?
+
The MFA Acting program is a full-time, intensive course that lasts for two years.
How do I apply for the MFA Acting program?
+
Applications are made through UCAS Conservatoires. You will need to register, complete the application form in English, provide referee details, pay application and audition fees, and attend an audition.
When is the application deadline for the MFA Acting program?
+
Applications are typically due around the 1st of October in the year prior to entry, for example, October 2025 for September 2026 entry. Early application is advised.