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 and faculty who are working professionals and leaders in their disciplines. You’ll develop important skills with a particular emphasis on classical actor-training and the ability to work in pre-modern styles as well as contemporary performance.

These skills may include:

  • Creatively approaching story-telling using various acting styles, including Commedia dell’arte, Chekhov and Shakespeare
  • Using a self-disciplined approach to learning lines and rehearsing
  • Confident stage, screen, and vocal presence
  • Integrating improvisation, scene study, movement, and voice in performances
  • Screen acting, auditioning, solo creation, singing, voice-over, and stage combat
  • Taking direction and collaborating with directors, crew, and other actors to convey characters and stories 
  • Evoking a reaction and connecting with the audience
  • 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. Some career options may require further education or training.

Visit the National Occupational Classification website to research basic requirements and responsibilities of jobs in your field.

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

Make the most out of your program

Your experiences will open doors to new opportunities and help you understand 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 on LinkedIn

Find UBC Acting graduates on LinkedIn to learn about where they’re working, and their career and academic paths. 

More information

From 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.