Your degree in Acting

Skills you’ll develop

While studying Acting, you’ll take courses that are fully integrated with Theatre at UBC productions, and act in shows that are directed and coached by guest artists , graduate students, and faculty who are working professionals and leaders in their disciplines. You’ll develop important skills with a particular emphasis on text-based actor-training and the ability to work across various historical and modern modes of performance.

These skills may include:

  • Creatively approaching story-telling using various acting styles, such as Commedia dell’arte screen acting, or Shakespeare
  • Using a self-disciplined approach to analyzing and rehearsing scenes
  • Confident vocal and physical presence on stage and screen
  • Integrating improvisation, scene study, movement, and voice in performances
  • Collaborating with directors, crew, and other actors to create characters, illuminate ideas and tell stories 
  • Strategically approaching your career development through intensive practice of performance and auditioning skills

Career possibilities

Career opportunities vary across a range of fields including film, television, theatre, radio, community organizations, tourism, event management, public relations, arts administration, education, and others.

There are many career paths that can combine your academics, skills, and experience with your different interests. Read through the job titles below for ideas.

Visit the Job Bank Canada website to research basic requirements and responsibilities of jobs in your field. Some career options may require further education or training.

  • Acting teacher
  • Actor
  • Announcer
  • Artistic director
  • Camera operator
  • Casting director
  • Community arts coordinator
  • Critic
  • Drama therapist
  • Events coordinator
  • Extra wrangler
  • Festival organizer
  • Film location manager
  • Intimacy coordinator
  • Lighting designer
  • Lighting technician
  • Makeup or costume supervisor
  • Media relations officer
  • Movement coach
  • Performer
  • Playwright
  • Production assistant
  • Radio station manager
  • Script supervisor
  • Set designer
  • Stage manager
  • Stunt coordinator
  • Stunt person
  • Talent agent
  • Technical director
  • Television director or producer
  • Theatre company manager
  • Voice coach
  • Voice-over actor

Make the most of your program

Your experiences will open doors to new opportunities, develop your skillset, and help you clarify your values and interests.

Build your network

Employers often hire people they know, so help them get to know you. You can build your network through clubs, classes, informational interviews, and more. There are so many ways to make connections and find mentors.

The professional associations below are also great resources for meeting people, learning about specific industries, and finding job and volunteer opportunities. Most have reduced membership rates for students and new grads.

Connect with alumni

Learn about possible career paths by browsing alumni stories or viewing the profiles of UBC Acting graduates on LinkedIn.

As you read, take note of interesting job titles, organizations, and experiences you may want to explore. If a particular story or profile aligns with your goals, consider reaching out for an informational interview.

More information

Throughout your Arts degree, you’ll develop skills and experiences that can translate into many career paths. Check out other things you can do with your Arts degree.