Programme Specification
UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL LANCASHIRE
Programme Specification
This Programme Specification provides a concise summary of the main features of the
programme and the learning outcomes that a typical student might reasonably be expected to
achieve and demonstrate if he/she takes full advantage of the learning opportunities that are
provided.
Sources of information on the programme can be found in Section 17
1. Awarding Institution / Body
University of Central Lancashire
2. Teaching Institution
University of Central Lancashire – Preston Campus
3. University Department/Centre
School of Film, Media and Performance
4. External Accreditation
None
5. Title of Final Award
BA (Hons) Contemporary Theatre & Performance
6. Modes of Attendance offered
Full-time & Part-time
7. UCAS Code
CLANC / C30/ W441
8. Relevant Subject Benchmarking
Group(s)
Dance, Drama and Performance
9. Other external influences
none
10. Date of production/revision of
this form
September 2014
11. Aims of the Programme
The specific aims of BA (Hons) Contemporary Theatre and Performance are:
1.
To give students a broad practical, critical, analytical and contextual understanding of
contemporary theatre practices, that will equip students with skills that can be directly
transferred into the work place.
2.
To give students opportunities to develop the skills and attributes needed in order to
devise original creative works in the area of contemporary theatre practices.
3.
To prepare students with the knowledge of industrial networks and the skills required to
prosper in challenging industry
4.
To equip students with subject specific and generic transferable skills in line with the
National Subject Benchmarks for Theatre and Dance degree courses.
12. Learning Outcomes, Teaching, Learning and Assessment Methods
A. Knowledge and Understanding at level 4
A1.1 Identify the essential features of examples of contemporary practice. (RP1001)
A1.2 Define key elements of contemporary performance and apply these in class-based tasks.
(PF1000)
Teaching and Learning Methods
Across all modules and at all levels teaching and learning are synthesised from a variety of
learning activities and opportunities. Knowledge and Understanding at level 4 is characterised
by knowledge of the history and background of practice and practitioners. Learning situations
include:
 lectures
 case studies
 seminars and discussion groups
 practical tutor – led workshops
 technical guidance
 group tutorials and verbal feedback
 individual tutorials
Assessment methods
 practical activities
 workshops
 rehearsals and performances
 written submissions and presentations.
B. Subject-specific skills at level 4
B1.1 Apply skills in a range of performance outcomes.(PF1000)
B1.2 Identify strategies to improve technical, improvisation and performing skills. (PF1001)
Teaching and Learning Methods
Practical study occurs within
 analysis of contemporary and historical practice
 workshops
 rehearsals
 lecture/demonstrations
 performance/installation
 self-reflection and peer group evaluation.
Assessment methods
At this level the following activities are used for assessment:



performance/installation
processes leading to performances
class contribution
C. Thinking Skills at level 4
C1.1 Appreciate artistic intention and result. (PF1000)
C1.2 Discuss theoretical concepts using appropriate critical language.(RP1001)
C1.3 Contextualise your own practice within wider performative frameworks. (RP1001)
Teaching and Learning Methods
 lectures
 workshops
 screenings
 study visits
 seminars and discussion groups
 individual and group tutorials
Assessment methods
At this level the following activities are used for assessment:
 performances
 presentations
 written assignments
D. Other skills relevant to employability and personal development at level 4
D1.1 Identify activities that assist in the creation of a positive group dynamic within
performance and other group work (PF1001)
D1.2 Review the key factors in successful research and presentation of personal work,
personal, team and time management skills. (RP1001)
Teaching and Learning Methods
 lectures
 seminars
 screenings
 skills-based workshops
 ensemble rehearsals
Assessment methods




practical and performance work
personal development plans
class contribution
peer responses
A. Knowledge and Understanding at level 5
A2.1 realise performance with reference to an understanding of key performance theories;
(PF2101 & PF2104))
A2.2 challenge the conventions of performance with reference to an understanding of key
performance theories; (PF2102, PF2103 & PF2104)
A2.3 formulate research into academic presentation material.(RP2001)
A2.4 analyse the professional demands made on practitioners (RP2002)
A2.5 appraise current criteria for arts funding proposals (RP2002)
Teaching and Learning Methods
A variety of teaching and learning methods are synthesised across all modules at level 5.
Learning situations include:
 workshops
 rehearsal
 seminars and discussion groups
 lectures
 individual and group tutorials
 screenings
 study visits
 peer review
 technical induction
Assessment methods
At this level the following activities are used for assessment:




performances
presentations
written assignments
class contribution
B. Subject-specific skills at level 5
B2.1 Explore appropriate methodologies towards the creation of:

given and/or original text;

visual theatre and performance

physical performance;
(PF2101/2/3/4)
B2.2 Apply a knowledge of ‘production value’ in the generation of theatre performance;
(PF2000)
B2.3 Apply current methodologies in devising theatre performance. (PF2001)
Teaching and Learning Methods
Practical study occurs within
 analysis of contemporary and historical practice
 workshops
 software training
 rehearsals
 lecture/demonstrations
 performance/installation
 self-reflection and peer group evaluation.
Assessment methods
At this level the following activities are used for assessment:
 performance/installation
 processes leading to performances
 class contribution
 screenings
C. Thinking skills at Level 5
C2.1 Test and contextualise methodologies towards the generation of interdisciplinary
performance texts; (PF2000)
C2.2 Employ appropriate critical language to: (PF2101/2/3/4 & RP2001)

dissect given text.

interpret visual discourse

access and interpret physical vocabulary

interrogate meaning within the diversity of contemporary arts practice
C2.3 Demonstrate awareness of relevant critical and theoretical issues (PF2001)
C2.4 Appreciate cultural value within theatre making and performance. (PF2001)
Teaching and Learning Methods
 lectures
 seminars
 workshops
 screenings
 supervised rehearsals
Assessment methods
At this level the following activities are used for assessment:
 performances
 written assignments
 class contribution
 submission of interactive media hard copy
D. Other skills relevant to employability and personal development at level 5
D2.1 Demonstrate strategies to direct and operate under direction. (PF2000)
D2.2 Appraise and apply research methodologies appropriate to the development of
contemporary practice; (RP2001)
D2.3 Exploit personal development strategies based upon past and current
opportunities.(RP2002)
D2.4 Employ effective collaborative approaches. (PF2001)
Teaching and Learning Methods
 Seminars
 Tutorials
 Workshops
 Study visits
 Practitioner-led events
Assessment methods
At this level the following activities are used for assessment:



performances
processes leading to performances
class contribution
A. Knowledge and Understanding at level 6
A3.1 Construct and conduct workshops that investigative and evaluate approaches to
performance; (PF3001)
A3.2 Apply appropriate research techniques; (RP3001)
A3.3 Demonstrate a critical knowledge and understanding of interdisciplinary performance
work(RP3006)
A3.4 Critically examine the cultural value of devised theatre/performance. (PF3012,PF3011)
A3.5 Formulate a research question that supports both theoretical and practical investigation
and outcomes. (RP3002)
Teaching and Learning Methods
Knowledge and Understanding at level 6 is characterised by a synthesis of the relationships
between theory and practice, intention and technical realisation.
Learning situations include:
 lectures
 case studies
 seminars and discussion groups
 practical tutor – led workshops
 technical guidance
 group tutorials, peer review and formative verbal feedback
 one-to-one tutorials
Assessment methods
At this level the following activities are used for assessment:
 performances
 processes leading to performances
 presentations
 written assignments
 viva voce
B. Subject-specific skills at level 6
B3.1 Define and apply an appropriate working methodology where theory and practice inform
each other; (RP3002)
B3.2 Realise, through the application of appropriate methodologies, interdisciplinary
performance material for small scale performance; (PF3000)
B3.3 Apply a range of methodologies to the devising process (PF3012,PF3011)
Teaching and Learning Methods
Practical study occurs within
 analysis of contemporary and historical practice
 workshops
 software training
 rehearsals
 lecture/demonstrations
 performance/installation
 self-reflection and peer group evaluation.
Assessment methods
At this level the following activities are used for assessment:
 performances
 processes leading to performances
 viva voce
C. Thinking Skills at level 6
C3.1 Critically evaluate and contextualise your working process and ensuing product.
(PF3000)
C3.2 Plan and organise a personal programme of study within non-negotiable deadlines;
(RP3001/2/3)
C3.3 Incorporate critical thinking into the creative process (PF3012, PF3011)
C3.4 Critically evaluate and contextualise innovative practice across a range of performance
disciplines (RP3006)
C3.5 Evaluate strategies to initiate creative work through practice-based study (PF3001)
C3.6 Select learning opportunities (performance strategies, techniques and knowledge) in the
furtherance of a performance methodology. (PF3001)
C3.7 Demonstrate critical knowledge in an area that is of personal interest and also reflects
the general content and ethos of the subject. (PF3012, RP3001)
C3.8 Plan for, and engage in a process in which practical investigation leads to an informed
or enhanced practical output. (RP3002)
Teaching and Learning Methods
 lectures
 seminars
 workshops
 tutorial guidance
Assessment methods
 performances
 presentations
 written assignments
 viva voce
D. Other skills relevant to employability and personal development at level 6
D3.1 Manage and administrate human and technical resources within a public production;
(PF3000 & RP3003)
D3.2 Produce a body of written work that respects academic conventions. (RP3001/6)
D.3.3 Disseminate your research findings in a form that respects academic conventions.
(RP3002)
D3.4 Reflect and evaluate the professional demands made on your own professional practice.
(RP3003)
Teaching and Learning Methods
Outcomes within this category at level 6 are designed to bring to maturity the transition from
study to workplace. They relate to the ability to administrate, manage and lead a team.
Learning at level 6 should be independent and determined by self-devised goals and stimuli.
Assessment methods
At this level the following activities are used for assessment:





performances
processes leading to performances
presentations
written assignments
viva voce
13. Subject Pathways
14. Awards and Credits
Major Honours
Level
Module
Module Title
Code
Credit
rating
Level 6
PF3000(L6)
Performance 3
20
RP3002(L6)
RP3001(L6)
Practice-as-Research Project
Dissertation
40
20
PF3012(L6)
Devising: Text Visuality and the
body
20
20
PF3011(L6)
PF3001(L6)
Contemporary Theatre Practices
Student Defined Study
20
RP3006(L6)
RP3003(L6)
Critical Studies
Professional Practice 2
20
20
PF2000(L5)
PF2101(L5)
PF2102(L5)
PF2103(L5)
PF2001(L5)
PF2104(L5)
Performance 2
Text and Performance
Visual Performance
Body in Performance
Devising Technique
20
20
20
20
20
40
RP2002(L5)
RP2001(L5)
Professional Practice
Performance Research
20
20
RP1001(L4)
Performance Contexts
40
PF1001(L4)
PF1000(L4)
Preparation for Performance
Performance 1
40
40
Level 5
Contemporary Performance
Skills
Level 4
Bachelor of Arts Degree
with Honours
Requires 360 credits including
120 at Level 5 and including
120 at Level 6
Bachelor of Arts Degree
Requires 320 credits including
120 at Level 5 and including
40 at Level 6
Diploma of Higher
Education
Requires 240 credits including
120 at Level 5
Certificate of Higher
Education
Requires 120 credits including
100 at Level 4
15. Personal Development Planning
Personal Development Planning (PDP) is a key aspect of all the performing arts courses at
UCLan. PDP is integrated within all modules and across the totality of study. PDP, through the
creation of a personal document referred to as a Progress File, helps you to define and focus
your educational and professional aims and goals; it will assist you to consider how you can
engage with the learning opportunities your course offers to achieve your personal career and
professional objectives.
This course consists of modules with fixed syllabi that together enable you and your colleagues to
gain the knowledge and develop the skills essential if you are to be a successful practitioner.
However the course is designed to allow you to choose or negotiate many aspects of your
learning in ways which are appropriate to your abilities, learning preferences and vocational
intentions. Thus is referred to as a student-centred learning approach. When coupled with the selfmonitoring and evaluation of PDP, you find that study shifts from a tutor-led/teaching activity to a
personally-defined learning experience. This is close to the way many professional artists operate
and the terms ‘reflective practitioners’ or ‘thinking artist’ describe the kind of graduate we expect
you to become.
16. Admissions criteria
Programme Specifications include minimum entry requirements, including academic
qualifications, together with appropriate experience and skills required for entry to study.
These criteria may be expressed as a range rather than a specific grade. Amendments to
entry requirements may have been made after these documents were published and you
should consult the University’s website for the most up to date information.
Students will be informed of their personal minimum entry criteria in their offer letter.
UK Applicants:
Except in exceptional circumstances, UK applicants must attend an interview with
audition. Once your application has been processed you will be sent a letter stating the
date you that you are required to attend, and what will be required of you
If it is not possible for you to attend on the date proposed, please contact us to rearrange
a date or agree alternative arrangements.
All successful candidates must have achieved the following:
 Achieve a minimum of 260-300 UCAS tariff points at A2 or equivalent
 Grade C in GCSE Maths and English or an equivalent; UK equivalents include key
skills level 3 or functional skills level 2
European Applicants:
European applicants may not be able to attend an interview in the UK. Once your
application has been processed, you should submit an e-portfolio, CD or DVD of your
recent work; this will be followed by a telephone interview.
International Applicants :
International applicants may not be able to attend an interview in the UK. Once your
application has been processed, you should submit an e-portfolio, CD or DVD of your
recent work; this will be followed by a telephone interview.
Additionally International students for whom English is not your first language, will be
required to evidence an IELTS score of 6.0 or equivalent. Equivalences include:
 TOEFL Written examination score of 550 plus a test of written English (at 4)
 TOEFL Computer Equivalent score of 213 and TWE at 4
 Proficiency in English (Cambridge) at Grade C or above
17. Key sources of information about the programme




www.uclan.ac.uk
UCAS/Trottman guides
BA (Hons) Contemporary Theatre & Performance fact sheet
UCLan prospectus
18. Curriculum Skills Map – level 4
Please tick in the relevant boxes where individual Programme Learning Outcomes are being assessed
Programme Learning Outcomes
Module
Level Code
Module Title
Core (C),
Compulsory
(COMP) or
Option (O)
Knowledge and
understanding
L4
A1.1 A1.2
PF1000
(L4)
Performance 1
PF1001
(L4)
Preparation for Performance
RP1001
(L4)
Performance Contexts
x
COMP
Subject-specific
Skills
B1.1 B1.2
x
Thinking Skills
Other skills
relevant to
employability
and personal
development
C1.1 C1.2 C1.3 D1.1 D1.2
x
x
x
COMP
COMP
x
x
x
x
Curriculum Skills Map – level 5
Please tick in the relevant boxes where individual Programme Learning Outcomes are being assessed
Programme Learning Outcomes
Core (C),
Compulsory
Module
(COMP) or
Knowledge and
Subject-specific
Level Code
Module Title
Option (O)
understanding
Skills
Thinking Skills
Other skills relevant
to employability and
personal
development
L5
A2.1 A2.2 A2.3 A2.4 A2.5 B2.1 B2.2 B2.3 C2.1 C2.2 C2.3 C2.4 D2.1 D2.2 D2.3 D2.4
PF2000
(L5)
PF2101
(L5)
PF2102
(L5)
PF2103
(L5)
PF2001
(L5)
PF2104
(L5}
RP2002
(L5)
RP2001
(L5)
Performance 2
COMP
Text and Performance
O
Visual Performance
O
Body in Performance
O
Devising Technique
Contemporary Performance Skills
x
x
Professional Practice
COMP
Performance Research
COMP
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
COMP
O
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Curriculum Skills Map – level 6
Please tick in the relevant boxes where individual Programme Learning Outcomes are being assessed
Programme Learning Outcomes
Module
Level Code
Module Title
Core (C),
Compulsory
(COMP) or
Option (O)
Subjectspecific
Skills
Knowledge and
understanding
Other skills
relevant to
employability and
personal
development
Thinking Skills
L6
A3.1 A3.2 A3.3 A3.4 A3.5 B3.1 B3.2 B3.3 C3.1 C3.2 C3.3 C3.4 C3.5 C3.6 C3.7 C3.8 D3.1 D3.2 D3.3 D3.4
PF3001
(L6)
RP3001
(L6)
RP3002
(L6)
PF3000
(L6)
PF3011
(L6)
PF3012
(L6)
RP3003
(L6)
RP3006
(L6)
Student Directed Study
COMP
Dissertation
O
Practice-as-Research
O
x
x
x
x
x
O
Critical Studies
COMP
x
x
x
Performance 3
COMP
Contemporary Theatre
Practices
COMP
Devising Text, Visuality and
the Body
O
Professional Practice 2
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x