Institute of Technology or Polytechnic
Ara Institute of CanterburyBachelor of Music Theatre
This course is available
On-Campus
Level of Study
Bachelor's Degree
Summary
Please note that this programme is pending approval with NZQA.
This three-year degree will give you the skills needed to succeed in several branches of the performing arts.
You'll gain practical experience in performance and production work in key theatre disciplines such as acting, singing and dance, as well as studies in spoken voice, music theory, theatre history, technical theatre skills and research methods.
From the second year, you’ll learn to integrate the skills acquired in your first year. In the final year, most assessment is performance focused with the option to pursue an independent capstone project of your own design. This project allows for work-integrated learning in industry settings—including the possibility of working in professional productions—and further specialisations to develop other, related skills within the worlds of applied theatre and theatre for the stage. You'll learn from experienced performers and teachers who are dedicated to helping you make the most of your career.
Note: Successful applicants will be invited to audition in Christchurch or Auckland and will be contacted with specific time slots.
Audition dates:
- Wellington: 13 September, Te Whaea National Dance & Drama Centre
- Auckland: 20 September, Auckland Theatre Company
- Christchurch: 25–27 September, NASDA
- Christchurch: Late Auditions
Entry criteria
Academic RequirementsUniversity Entrance as specified by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA)
OR New Zealand Certificate in Performing Arts (Level 4) or equivalent
If you have undertaken examinations other than NCEA (e.g. International Baccalaureate, Cambridge Examination), Ara will assess your qualification for academic entry equivalency.
* NZQA approved subjects: see https://www2.nzqa.govt.nz/ncea/understanding-secondary-quals/university-entrance/
Additional RequirementsSubmit a completed Audition form with the requested information
Attend an audition. Absentee auditions may be arranged (such as overseas applicants) via digital media platforms such as Skype or Face Time or via YouTube and Vimeo with applicants interviewed by telephone.
Alternative RequirementsStill want to study but don't meet the Academic Requirements?
If you show that you have equivalent skills for tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, you may be able to gain alternative entry.
Note: The number of courses you have to complete for this qualification may be reduced where you have relevant credits from previous study, or evidence of similar learning or experience in the workplace.
English RequirementsWhat if English is not my first Language?
Overall IELTS 6.0 Academic
- 5.5 Listening
- 5.5 Reading
- 5.5 Writing
- 5.5 Speaking
If English is not your first language, we want to make sure that you will be successful in your chosen programme of study.
- Please provide a result from a test or qualification on the acceptable alternatives
- English Proficiency Outcomes Chart.
- If you are a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident, complete an Admission and Enrolment form and Ara will contact you regarding a free assessment.
- If you are not a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent resident, please book a PTE Academic test through the Ara Examination Centre or complete an NZQA-approved English language test in your home country.
- IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form and are valid for two years from the date of the test.
- What if I have achieved NCEA Level 3 University Entrance?
- You do not need to provide additional evidence of English Language skills.
Applicants are responsible for submitting the completed Additional Requirements form with the requested information
Applications are accepted throughout the academic year
Candidates must attend an audition which includes solo singing, a monologue, a dance/movement audition and a programme advisement interview.
Candidates are assessed and awarded scores under the following headings:
Interpretation, Communication, Intonation, Technique, Vocal Quality, Sense of Pitch and Rhythm, Comprehension, Acting Technique, Spoken Voice Quality, Alignment, Physical Expressiveness.
Candidates are ranked and based on this ranking together with the rest of the application, ākonga may be offered a place in the BMT.
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