Vocal Studies and Performance
- Study level:
- Undergraduate
- Awarded by:
- Sheffield Hallam University

Course summary
Vocal Studies and Performance at The Arden School of Theatre offers a comprehensive programme that explores multiple sectors of vocal performance, aiming to prepare students for the professional performance industry.
The aim of the programme is to train and support professional vocalists in multi-genre performance including both musical theatre and pop music vocals with the scope to explore any genre the students would like to specialise in. The course is fast-paced and heavily practical, encouraging students to explore their individual artistic interests in order to develop as practitioners. The course is ideal for those with a passion for singing and a desire for a career in the performance industry.
The Arden School of Theatre utilises its working links with the professional community to provide the most up to date knowledge of vocal techniques and professional requirements. The programme explores a number of modules which engage students in performance technique and skills. The modules are designed to explore the voice as an instrument and understand the theory behind how we control it.
Each year of the programme has a unique focus in providing students with the techniques and knowledge of the voice. The first year will focus on the technical side of the voice which will then be applied to given challenges that you could face in the industry in the second year. The final year focuses on professional development and the modules are designed to give you the skills needed to market yourself as a professional vocalist.
Modules
Examples of current modules;
Level 4-
Skills for the Vocalist
Acting Through Song
Contextualising Performance
Ensemble Singing
Solo Singing
General Musicianship
Level 5
Advanced Skills for the Vocalist
The Art of Cabaret
Advanced Ensemble Singing
Advanced Solo Singing
Critical Performance Theory
Intro to Studio Production
Level 6
Professional Development
Vocal Showcase
Concert Performance
Theatrical Performance
Studio Project
Negotiated Research Project

Discover UCEN Manchester
Learn what it's like to study at UCEN Manchester. From key stats to campus highlights, open days, and more - find everything you need to know here.
How to apply
Apply by
31 January
Application codes
- Course code:
- W412
- Institution code:
- M10
- Campus name:
- City Campus Manchester
- Campus Code:
- M
Points of entry
The following entry points are available for this course:
- Year 1
International applicants
UCEN Manchester is unable to consider international applications due to UKVI regulations.
Entry requirements
Qualification requirements
UCAS Tariff - 96 points
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (first teaching from September 2016) - MMM
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Certificate (first teaching from September 2016) - DD
We strongly recommend that all applicants have GCSE English Language and Mathematics grades A*-C or level 9-4
UCEN Manchester particularly welcomes students with grade 5 Music Theory and grade 8 Singing, this will aid in the application.
Applicants who do not meet the standard entry criteria but have previous learning towards a degree-level qualification or relevant industry or life experience will be considered on an individual basis and may be invited to interview.
Mature applicants (aged 21 or over) who are able to demonstrate relevant skills or knowledge gained in employment or vocational activity will be considered and may be invited to interview.
Additional entry requirements
- Audition
- The audition will comprise of a vocal warm up, an individual song presentation of two contrasting genres and an interview Applicants are required to attend an audition to showcase skills in singing. This will be in both musical theatre and popular music. Applicants will need to prepare two songs that contrast in genre both with piano accompaniment.
- Interview
- There will be availability for Skype interviews – for overseas/applicants who have to travel. There will be a formal audition and then interview on the day of audition
English language requirements
Historical entry grades data
This section shows the range of grades students were previously accepted with - learn more. It is designed to support your research but does not guarantee whether you will or won't get a place. Admissions teams consider various factors, including interviews, subject requirements, and entrance tests. Check all course entry requirements for eligibility.
- Data from:
- This course and 6 other performing arts courses
- Date range:
- 2022-2024
Grades held by accepted students
- AAA
- Highest grades
- DDD
- Lowest grades
Offer rate for UK school & college leavers
Students aged 17/18 who applied to this course were offered a place.
How do you compare?
See how students with your grades have been accepted onto this course in the past.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
Location | Fee | Year |
---|---|---|
England | £8900 | Year 1 |
Northern Ireland | £8900 | Year 1 |
Scotland | £8900 | Year 1 |
Wales | £8900 | Year 1 |
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website.
Additional fee information
No additional fees or cost information has been supplied for this course, please contact the provider directly.