What qualifications do you need to study drama?
Christopher Davis
Updated on March 24, 2026
Most actors study drama at a university or conservatoire. You’ll have to go through an audition or casting call before taking on a specific job. To get on to a relevant degree or diploma you may need 5 GCSEs A-C, including maths and English and at least two A levels.
What subjects are needed to study acting?
Required Qualification/s
- Bachelor of Arts (Drama)
- Diploma in Drama.
- BTech in Drama.
- Short courses in Drama/Acting.
- Workshops.
- Part-time acting classes.
What can I do with a drama and English degree?
Career opportunities These include roles in the theatre, film, television and radio, journalism, teaching and applied theatre. Some of our most recent graduates are currently pursuing further study in Film Studies, Creative Writing and Screenwriting.
Can I study drama at Unisa?
Under the guidance of highly experienced academics, industry practitioners and guest artists, you will study drama and music through performance practice and applied theory. This degree allows you to select two majors ensuring you graduate with a broad knowledge of two areas of interest.
What skills do you need to be an actor?
What skills do I need to be an Actor/Performer?
- Ability to take direction.
- Ability to work as a team and also individually.
- Good time keeping skills.
- Reliability.
- Ability to learn lines/directions.
- Confidence in being in front of an audience.
- Experience in improvisation/ad-libbing.
How many years does it take to study drama?
Common options include drama, set design, playwriting, film, theater, television, acting, directing and more. Most master’s degrees taken through colleges and universities take up to three years to complete; for master’s degrees at performing arts schools, three to four years is standard.
What is a actress salary?
Actress Salary
| Annual Salary | Hourly Wage | |
|---|---|---|
| Top Earners | $218,000 | $105 |
| 75th Percentile | $145,500 | $70 |
| Average | $91,401 | $44 |
| 25th Percentile | $26,000 | $12 |
Which acting stream is best?
The students who are having Science or Commerce stream in 12th standard, they can also go for acting courses if they are really interested in it. To get the admission in the career in acting you should have to sit and think that are you able to work hard.
What jobs can you do with drama?
Dramatherapist. Runner, broadcasting/film/video. Theatre director. Theatre stage manager….Jobs where your degree would be useful include:
- Arts administrator.
- Choreographer.
- Further education teacher.
- Media researcher.
- Music producer.
- Secondary school teacher.
- Special effects technician.
- Talent agent.
How do I become an actor?
Steps to Becoming an Actor
- Jump into theater in high school. The path to acting careers can actually begin in high school plays and musicals.
- Get experience outside of school.
- Get educated.
- Practice makes perfect.
- Build up an acting resume.
- Hire an agent.
What are the requirements for a drama degree?
Drama degree entry requirements. Some universities accept any subjects at A level, BTEC, IB or Scottish Higher. Some universities ask for at least one essay-based subject. Some universities require a subject such as drama, theatre studies, performing arts or English literature.
What do you study in drama and Performing Arts?
You can study music, performance studies, music technology, dance and drama, performing arts, theatre studies. Related subjects include production arts, film studies, psychology, philosophy, English, English literature, media studies. You’ll need to be able to listen to other team members and take on board each other’s opinions and ideas.
Is it possible to get into drama school with no experience?
Is it possible to get into a drama school with no experience? Honestly, it is quite unlikely. You are going to enter the fray along with other applicants who have been taking courses and took role in plays for years. That being said, school members and teachers are looking for potential.
How can I Advance my career as a drama teacher?
Drama teachers working in public schools can advance their career by going into a leadership or supervisory position within their district. Some may go on to drama programs in colleges and universities. Let’s review.
