Acting & Performance: HND

Performing arts students gathered in a studio rehearsal, reacting enthusiastically during a group improvisation exercise.

Qualification

HND

Study Mode

Full Time

Duration

1 Year - 2.5 Days per week

Start date

Aug 2026

Campus

Easterhouse

Apply now

Course overview

Deepen your craft and take your performance to a professional level.

This advanced course builds on the foundations of the HNC Acting and Performance, giving you the opportunity to refine your skills in acting, movement and voice through an intensive and creative two-year journey. You’ll explore complex techniques, collaborate on devised and scripted projects, and work in a professional, performance-led environment that mirrors the demands of the industry.

The course is highly practical and physically demanding, with conditioning work, partnering, contact-based movement, lifting, supporting and intensive physical training forming a core part of your development. A strong level of stamina and physical capability is essential, as you’ll be fully immersed in the physical and creative process of acting.

You’ll train with Glasgow Kelvin College’s industry-experienced Performing Arts faculty, take part in workshops led by visiting professionals, and perform in real theatre spaces including Platform Theatre. This direct industry exposure gives you valuable insight into the professional world and helps you build vital creative networks.

Many graduates from this programme progress to conservatoires and universities across the UK, or move directly into work in theatre, television, film, community arts and education. With Glasgow’s thriving arts scene on your doorstep, you’ll be in the perfect place to grow as a confident, versatile performer.

This course is ideal for:

Graduates of the HNC Acting and Performance who are ready to take their skills to the next level.
Ambitious performers aiming for professional training or conservatoire-level study.
Learners who thrive in physically demanding, performance-focused environments.
Those eager to collaborate, devise original work and develop their creative voice.

What you will learn

You’ll continue to strengthen your technique and artistic confidence through a series of advanced projects that prepare you for professional performance contexts.

Your studies will include:

Advanced Acting Technique – exploring text, subtext, and emotional depth.
Devising Techniques – collaborative theatre-making and ensemble work.
Movement Techniques – precision, stamina and expressive physical performance.
Voice Techniques – advanced vocal range, character voice and text interpretation.
Production & Performance Techniques – live staging, rehearsal processes and technical collaboration.
Professional Development & Etiquette – building a personal portfolio, audition preparation and industry standards.
Theatre-Making Technique – developing original performances from concept to production.
Live Performance – taking part in public shows and professional showcases.

Teaching combines studio practice, rehearsals, public performances, critical reflection and mentoring from experienced practitioners.

Two Acting & Performance students at Glasgow Kelvin College pose during an interview—one wears a mask and gives a thumbs up, while the other holds a microphone and smiles.

🎭 Acting & Performance at Kelvin | Behind the Scenes 🎬

Our Acting & Performance students took part in a practical theatre class exploring the use of masks in performance.

Through physical theatre techniques and character work, students experimented with expression, movement and storytelling beyond dialogue — developing confidence and stage presence in a hands-on environment.

Training that brings performance to life.

View on YouTube

Entry requirements

✅ Successful completion of an HNC in Acting and Performance (or equivalent qualification, such as HNC Musical Theatre)

✅ Entry by audition only – involving group workshop sessions and performance of two contrasting text pieces

✅ Demonstration of physical capability and readiness for intensive practical work

ℹ️ This course is physically demanding and requires stamina, focus, and full participation.

If you have specific needs or would like to discuss potential adjustments, we encourage you to contact us before applying. Our team is committed to fostering an inclusive environment and will work with you to explore reasonable adjustments where feasible.

ℹ️ For this course, if English is not your first language

you need to have SQA ESOL Higher (or equivalent, click here to see equivalent qualifications)

If you do not have a formal ESOL qualification but your language skills meet this level, you should apply for your course and then contact our Admissions team to organise an internal language assessment here at the College.

Career Opportunities

Graduates from this course go on to work in a range of creative and professional roles, including:

🎭 Stage or Screen Actor

🎬 Film/TV Performer

📝 Writer or Director

🎪 Physical or Community Theatre Practitioner

📚 Arts Educator or Facilitator

🌍 Touring or Cruise Ship Performer

Future prospects

After completing your HND, you can progress to degree-level study at universities or conservatoires across the UK — including UHI Perth at Kelvin, and other leading institutions — or move directly into professional work in the performing arts, education or creative industries.