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All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source. |
| SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY |
| REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: |
| Bachelor of Arts in Acting |
| SAQA QUAL ID | QUALIFICATION TITLE | |||
| 123667 | Bachelor of Arts in Acting | |||
| ORIGINATOR | ||||
| African Academy of Cinematic Arts | ||||
| PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY | NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK | |||
| - | HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework | |||
| QUALIFICATION TYPE | FIELD | SUBFIELD | ||
| National First Degree | Field 02 - Culture and Arts | Performing Arts | ||
| ABET BAND | MINIMUM CREDITS | PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL | NQF LEVEL | QUAL CLASS |
| Undefined | 360 | Not Applicable | NQF Level 07 | Regular-Provider-ELOAC |
| REGISTRATION STATUS | SAQA DECISION NUMBER | REGISTRATION START DATE | REGISTRATION END DATE | |
| Registered | EXCO 0730/25 | 2025-03-11 | 2028-03-11 | |
| LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT | LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT | |||
| 2029-03-11 | 2034-03-11 | |||
| In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise. |
This qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification. |
| PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION |
| Purpose:
The Bachelor of Arts in Acting aims to equip learners with knowledge, skills, and competencies to pursue a career in the acting and performance industry. This qualification will provide learners with a comprehensive understanding of the theories and practices of acting, including methods and techniques in voice, movement, and screen performance. The qualification will develop advanced critical thinking skills and the ability to analyse dramatic literature, cultural anthropology, and art criticism relating to acting and performance. Learners will apply a nuanced understanding of the psychology of production and how to create and sustain a character in performance. The qualification will provide learners with a well-rounded education in acting and performance, preparing them to pursue a successful career in the entertainment industry. The qualification will equip learners with the knowledge, skills and competencies to excel in the chosen field, and to develop a unique artistic voice that reflects their individuality and creativity. On completion of the qualification, qualifying learners will be able to: ¿ Produce and perform in a range of productions, including classical and contemporary works, and use these experiences to develop a unique artistic voice. ¿ Create and execute an original script, or adapt an existing work for performance, demonstrating a mastery of the principles of scriptwriting. ¿ Explore the business and marketing aspects of the entertainment industry and apply the principles of brand management to promote themselves and other artists. ¿ Use research methodologies to analyse and explore topics related to acting, performance, and the entertainment industry, and communicate their findings through written and oral presentations. ¿ Work effectively, and respectfully with fellow performers, production staff, and creative collaborators, demonstrating the ability to collaborate and work effectively in a team. Rationale: The entertainment industry is a multi-billion-dollar industry that plays a critical role in the global economy. It encompasses various fields, including film, television, music, theatre, and art. This industry has always been highly competitive and fast-evolving, but some recent developments have led to a rapid change in the entertainment industry. The Covid-19 pandemic in 2019 had a major impact on the global industry and the South African Industry. This resulted in a loss of 38% of local businesses, a decline of 28% in local content production and subsequently, a decline in training and skills development opportunities in the industry. However, following the pandemic, there was a boom in the industry, with production companies eager to produce content. Although they succeeded in reviving the industry, there were new competitors such as independent online content creators, who rose to fame during lockdown. The 2023 African Business Report suggested that production companies must be agile in content creation, or face extinction. Africa is at the centre of global internet content with more content creators rising to internet fame than any other country. The Senegalese Italian, Khabane "Khaby" Lame is the most infamous internet sensation today due to the growing accessibility of the internet and data in Sub-Saharan Africa. This qualification was therefore developed to provide learners with a comprehensive knowledge of the current industry landscape and equip them with the skills and knowledge required to create and produce quality content, create, and manage their brand and that of others, successfully navigate the legal system within the industry, and collaborate on the highest level with world-class teams, using the latest technology and equipment. Actors will not only be trained to be highly skilled performers, but also to be innovators in their field, entrepreneurs, content creators and powerful individuals. African Business experts estimate that music and video streaming will be at the top of the African revenue chain by 2026, which means that individuals who are living on monetization of content will be earning top dollar as much as or more than famous Hollywood stars. Africa created a spotlight for itself and has been positioned in the industry as a key player. Streaming platforms such as Netflix have recognised the phenomenon early and have been investing in African and South African local content since 2016, as well as training in the sector since 2020. The success of local content produced by Netflix can be observed in the public eye with films such as "My Octopus Teacher" and series such as "Ludik"'s track record in the industry. As of 2023, South Africa is the top contributor on the African continent for Netflix content. Despite the increased opportunities in the market and the rise of South African stars to international fame, actors are still struggling financially. The 2020 KwaZulu-Natal Film Commission identified four main issues facing actors in the industry today. Amongst other issues are the oversupply of actors with a relatively small demand for positions and a lack of structure in industry regulations. Skills shortage is a major challenge in the performing arts industry. Local actors lack basic business and contractual knowledge. Thus, there is a mismatch between the production requirements/demands and the supply of the acting community to the market. Local governments in many countries such as the United Kingdom provide stability for actors through local television production. Contrary to South Africa, where local television actors have no stability, resulting in industrial action with great notoriety achieved with the Generations strike in 2014. Studies showed no improvement in actors' treatment, rights, or salaries since the 2014 strike. This has been strongly reiterated by other actors in the industry. The SABC officials promised an overhaul of local content production, but the government has not fulfilled its promise of providing stability for the upcoming generation of actors. This qualification will address the skills gap and provide learners with relevant content responsive to labour market demands. South Africa is a hotspot for the current global industry, but there is a backlog in training and skills development in the sector, and current training does not adequately equip local actors to thrive in the industry. There are opportunities for content creators to collaborate with top international production companies and rise to the top of the industry. The survival and ability to thrive in the industry will be less dependent on the public sector, and more focused on individual innovation and international investments. The institution recognises that the industry is currently in uncharted territory, and therefore needs a fresh, rigorous approach to higher education to efficiently train the new generation of creatives in Africa. The path of an actor is no longer clear cut, and therefore, actors need a greater skill set than has ever been taught before. This qualification was designed to equip learners with the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to become professional actors who can perform in various mediums such as film, television, theatre, and radio. The qualification is intended for learners who wish to pursue a career in the performing arts, as well as to meet the needs of the stakeholders, including employers, industry professionals, and society at large. The qualification will provide learners with a comprehensive knowledge of the theories and practices of acting, including a knowledge of methods and techniques in voice, and movement in screen performance. This will enable learners to develop advanced critical thinking skills and the ability to analyse dramatic literature, cultural anthropology, and art criticism as they relate to acting and performance. Additionally, the qualification will provide learners with the psychology of production and how to create and sustain a character in performance. Learners will be able to produce and perform in a range of productions, including classical and contemporary works, and use these experiences to develop a unique artistic voice. The qualification will also develop learners' skills in scriptwriting, adaptation, and brand management to promote themselves and other artists and understand the business and marketing aspects of the entertainment industry. The qualification will equip learners with the necessary research methodologies to analyse and explore topics related to acting, performance, and the entertainment industry, which they can communicate through written and oral presentations. The qualification will develop learners' collaboration and teamwork skills in the context of a range of productions and projects, demonstrating the ability to work effectively, and respectfully with fellow performers, production staff, and creative collaborators The qualification will attract matriculants who are eager to work in the entertainment industry, as well as learners with a similar qualification in acting who wish to further their training. The qualification will also target current actors with experience in the industry. The qualification is highly practical and taught through a hybrid model with a combination of online learning, classroom training and work-integrated projects. Through providing mentorship from industry professionals, the qualification is industry-relevant and impactful. There is, however, a lack of accessibility to adequate training and skills development, and a need to provide a better platform for African content distribution. The qualification was developed in consultation with streaming services such as Showmax and Netflix to train learners in producing world-class content and assist them in gaining access to world-class platforms where their content can be widely distributed. The partnership with Netflix will provide accessibility to training to previously disadvantaged learners. Furthermore, the qualification places importance on the development of entrepreneurial and business skills, which will allow learners to create their businesses in this industry. Graduates will be able to enter the competitive industry with confidence and work as actors, performers, TV presenters, Podcast hosts, casting agents, brand managers, social media managers and content creators. They will be empowered to deliver social impact through their content and economic impact through participating in the global and local entertainment industry. Learners will be entrepreneurs to start their own entertainment businesses such as production companies, casting agencies or events companies. With the skill set gained, learners will be able to operate in any area of the entertainment industry including film, television, streaming, radio, or live performance, while being able to maintain financial stability. There will be more research opportunities for learners who excel academically. The qualification will prepare learners for a career in the performing arts industry while meeting the needs of stakeholders and society at large. |
| LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING |
| Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
The institution recognises the important role that the RPL plays in ensuring equitable access and participation in Higher Education. In this process, non-formal and/or informal learning are measured, evaluated and checked for equivalence or parity with the formal qualification entry requirements. The RPL assessment process will focus on ways of evaluating a person's knowledge and skills acquired through lifelong learning experiences (formal, non-formal and informal) against a set of pre-determined criteria. the applicant's educational goals and objectives. RPL for access RPL for exemption of modules: RPL for credit: Entry Requirements: The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is: Or Or |
| RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? |
| Y |
| QUALIFICATION RULES |
| This qualification consists of the following compulsory and elective modules at National Qualifications Framework Levels 5, 6 and 7 totalling 360 credits.
Compulsory Modules, Level 5, 70 Credits: Elective Modules, Level 5, 50 Credits (Select one stream): Scriptwriting Stream OR Brand Management Stream Compulsory Modules, Level 6, 70 Credits: Elective Modules, Level 6, 50 Credits (Select one stream): Scriptwriting Stream: OR Brand Management Stream: Compulsory Modules, Level 7, 70 Credits: Scriptwriting Stream OR Brand Management Stream |
| EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES |
| 1. Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the history, theories, and practices of acting, including a knowledge of methods and techniques in voice, and movement in screen performance.
2. Develop advanced critical thinking skills and the ability to analyse dramatic literature, cultural anthropology, and art criticism as they relate to acting and performance. 3. Apply a nuanced understanding of basic human psychology to create and sustain a character in on-screen performance. 4. Produce and perform in a range of productions, including classical and contemporary works, and use these experiences to develop a unique artistic voice. 5. Demonstrate the ability to create and execute an original script, or adapt an existing work for performance, demonstrating a mastery of the principles of scriptwriting. 6. Demonstrate the ability to analyse scripts to make artistic choices for performance, demonstrating an in-depth understanding of plot, theme, structure, character development and subtext. 7. Apply the principles of brand management to promote themselves and other artists and demonstrate an understanding of the business and marketing aspects of the entertainment industry. 8. Demonstrate the ability to use research methodologies to analyse and explore topics related to acting, performance, and the entertainment industry, and communicate findings through written and oral presentations 9. Apply principles of collaboration and teamwork in the context of a range of productions and projects, demonstrating the ability to work effectively and respectfully with fellow performers, production staff, and creative collaborators. |
| ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA |
| Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
¿ Examine the history and development of screen performance to understand its evolution. ¿ Analyse principles, theories and practices of acting to highlight their importance in the craft of screen acting. ¿ Explore various methods and techniques of voice and movement in screen performance to make sense of how they inform the acting profession. Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2: ¿ Interrogate and analyse the integral components of dramatic literature through literal works. ¿ Break down components of cultural anthropology to evaluate the dynamic nature of its impact on-screen performance. ¿ Explore and examine principles that guide art criticisms to form critical opinions. Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3: ¿ Apply an in-depth knowledge of basic human psychology in on-screen performance. ¿ Constructively evaluate, categorise and compare foundations of various basic human psychology principles. Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4: ¿ Create various acting techniques through performance productions. ¿ Apply acting methods through the creation of original works. Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5: ¿ Apply scriptwriting principles in the story structure. Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6: ¿ Identify and use key plot points, character arcs and character motivations in performance. ¿ Assess the impact of different genres, styles and mediums on artistic choices. ¿ Create original performances or works. Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7: ¿ Apply principles of brand management. ¿ Consider and break down various aspects of business in the entertainment industry and apply them to brand management. Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8: ¿ Use various research methodologies in screen performance. ¿ Apply research principles in research projects. Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9: ¿ Apply principles of collaboration and teamwork. ¿ Use performance techniques to create original works. ¿ Effectively establish relationships and work with all creative collaborators showing professional work ethic. |
| INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY |
| The qualification was developed after engaging in thorough research with similar qualifications offered both nationally and internationally. The qualification offers a specific skill set that aims to bridge the skills gap in the African entertainment industry, specifically the acting field. The qualification was compared with similar qualifications offered by the following countries.
Country: Singapore Institution: LASALLE College of the Arts Qualification Title: Bachelor of Arts Honours in Acting Credits: 360 Duration: 3 years full-time Entry requirements: ¿ Singapore-Cambridge GCE 'A' level with minimum 'Pass' in two subjects at A-Level/H2 Level and General Paper ¿ Local Polytechnic Diploma ¿ International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma ¿ Other relevant equivalent qualifications Purpose: The purpose of the Bachelor of Arts in Acting is to develop learners' skills in acting for stage and screen, voice and movement, and the creation and interpretation of text. Learners will engage in workshops, rehearsals, and performances, as well as theoretical and critical studies. The qualification is committed to producing curious, creative, intelligent graduates who are prepared for industry expectations and needs. Curriculum structure: The qualification consists of the following compulsory modules, each module has 15 credits. Year 1 Compulsory Modules, 120 Credits: ¿ Acting Techniques 1A comparable to Introduction to Acting and Method Acting. ¿ Asian Theatre Project. ¿ Acting 1A comparable to Introduction to Acting and Method Acting. ¿ Performance History and Analysis 1A. ¿ Acting Techniques 1B comparable to Introduction to Acting and Method Acting. ¿ Performance 1B comparable to Presenting for TV. ¿ Acting 1B comparable to Introduction to Acting and Method Acting ¿ Performance History and Analysis 1B. Year 2 Compulsory Modules, 120 Credits: ¿ Acting Techniques 2A comparable to Introduction to Acting and Method Acting. ¿ Performance 2A comparable to Presenting for TV. ¿ Acting 2A comparable to Introduction to Acting and Method Acting. ¿ Performance History and Analysis 2A. ¿ Acting Techniques 2B comparable to Introduction to Acting and Method Acting. ¿ Performance 2B comparable to Presenting for TV. ¿ Acting 2B comparable to Introduction to Acting and Method Acting. ¿ Performance History and Analysis 2B. Year 3 Compulsory Modules, 120 Credits: ¿ Dissertation comparable to Research Methodology. ¿ Graduation Performance. Modes of assessment: ¿ Studio Project. ¿ Technical Assignment. ¿ Pop Quiz. ¿ Written Assignment. ¿ Research Proposal Outline. ¿ Dissertation. Similarities ¿ LASALLE College of the Arts (LCA) qualification accepts applicants who completed Cambridge GCE 'A' level, an international school-leaving qualification for admission to universities worldwide similar to the National Certificate in the South African (SA) qualification. ¿ The LCA and SA qualifications are offered over three years of full-time study. ¿ Both qualifications will prepare learners for a career in the performing arts industry ¿ The purpose of LCA and SA qualifications is to develop learners' knowledge and skills in the art of acting, provide learners with a comprehensive understanding of acting techniques, theory, and history, take a more holistic approach, incorporating other elements such as voice and movement, script analysis, theatre history, and technical theatre. ¿ Both qualifications provide learners with opportunities to develop their practical skills through performances and productions. ¿ The LCA and SA qualifications consist of compulsory and elective modules. Learners can select from a variety of electives to suit their career interests and aspirations. Differences ¿ The SA qualification is broader and allows for more flexibility in terms of coursework and career paths whereas the LCA is more specialized and focused on a specific area of study. ¿ The SA qualification will equip learners with practical, technical, and creative skills and critical analysis, critical thinking, acting criticism, research, attributes, while the LCA qualification emphasizes more on practical and technical acting skills. Country: United States of America Institution: New York Film Academy Qualification Title: Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting for Film Credits: 121 Units Duration: Eight semesters Entry Requirements: ¿ High school qualifications or equivalent. Purpose: The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting for Film is intended for learners who are passionate, imaginative and versatile in their craft, and who also have a strong desire to further develop these attributes and skills as they apply to the discipline of acting for film. Learners in this qualification will be immersed in an environment created for professional development and creative freedom. Learners can advance their learning in the core principles of acting. Through coursework and hands-on projects, learners study and build skills in performance, literature, production, and kinaesthetic expression, and learn the business side of the industry. With this knowledge and experience, learners can form their unique artistic vision, allowing for continued growth in the field. The qualification is a great fit for graduates looking to pursue a passion for acting in front of the camera. Learning Outcomes ¿ Critically analyze and interpret dramatic texts across diverse cultural and historical lenses when creating characters and developing content. ¿ Create rich, fully realized, believable characters with emotional and psychological depth, applying an advanced understanding of character arc and multiple acting techniques. ¿ Deliver a professional audition and apply best practices for the entertainment industry, while identifying individual brands and maximizing their marketing potential for a professional career. ¿ Embody professional etiquette and communication skills when working independently and collaboratively in a creative environment. ¿ Integrate knowledge of the history of film and theatre to generate a historical and social context that informs the creation of original stories and fully realized characters. ¿ Originate and evaluate work from inception to completion, demonstrating skills in story structure, research, production and critical thinking, while expressing a unique voice and vision Similarities ¿ The New York Film Academy (NYFA) and the South African (SA) qualifications accept applicants who completed the high school qualification or equivalent qualifications. ¿ Both qualifications focus on developing the skills and techniques necessary for actors to perform on screen. ¿ The NYFA and SA qualifications involve extensive training in acting theory, script analysis, character development, and performance techniques. ¿ Learners in both qualifications can work on a variety of film and screen projects, and to collaborate with filmmakers, directors, and other actors. ¿ Both qualifications emphasize the importance of developing a professional portfolio of work and provide opportunities for learners to showcase their talents to industry professionals. ¿ Both qualifications consist of compulsory and elective modules to enable learners to specialise in their areas of strength and tap into their creative potential. ¿ The learning outcomes of the NYFA qualification are comparable to the exit outcomes of the SA qualification. Differences: ¿ The NYFA qualification is a more specialized degree compared to the SA qualification, which is broad and allows for more flexibility in terms of coursework and career paths. ¿ The SA qualification offers a wider range of career options, possibilities and pathways whereas the NYFA qualification is more narrowly focused on a specific area of study. ¿ With the SA qualification, learners will be equipped with both practical, technical, and creative skills and critical analysis, critical thinking, acting criticism, research, and attributes, whereas the NYFA qualification emphasizes only practical acting skills. ¿ The SA qualification contains 17 compulsory modules while the NYFA qualification consists of 9 compulsory modules. ¿ With the NYFA qualification, learners have the option to complete the qualification either in 3 or 4 years, while the SA qualification is offered over three years full-time. Conclusion: The above international qualifications compare favourably with the SA qualification since they offer rigorous academic and practical training in Acting, while also providing learners with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in the Acting industry or pursue further academic study. |
| ARTICULATION OPTIONS |
| Horizontal Articulation:
¿ Advanced Diploma in Music Performance, NQF Level 7. ¿ Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing, NQF Level 7. ¿ Bachelor of Arts in Dance, NQF Level 7. ¿ Bachelor of Arts in Drama and Theatre Studies, NQF Level 7. ¿ Bachelor of Arts in Drama and Theatre Arts, NQF Level 7. ¿ Bachelor of Arts in Drama, Theatre and Performance, NQF Level 7. ¿ Bachelor of Arts in Film and Television Studies, NQF Level 7. ¿ Bachelor of Arts in Live Performance, NQF Level 7. ¿ Bachelor of Arts in Media Studies, NQF Level 7. ¿ Bachelor of Arts in Music, NQF Level 7. ¿ Bachelor of Arts in Theatre and Performance, NQF Level 7. Vertical Articulation: ¿ Bachelor of Arts Honours in Drama Studies, NQF Level 8. ¿ Bachelor of Arts Honours in Drama and Theatre Arts, NQF Level 8. ¿ Bachelor of Arts Honours in Drama and Theatre Studies, NQF Level 8. ¿ Bachelor of Arts Honours in Film and Television, NQF Level 8. ¿ Bachelor of Arts Honours in Live Performance, NQF Level 8. ¿ Bachelor of Arts Honours in Media Studies, NQF Level 8. ¿ Bachelor of Fine Arts Honours in Theatre and Performance, NQF Level 8. ¿ Postgraduate Diploma in Arts in Theatre Studies, NQF Level 8. ¿ Postgraduate Diploma in Arts in Film Studies, NQF Level 8. ¿ Postgraduate Diploma in Fine Arts in Acting, NQF Level 8. ¿ Postgraduate Diploma in Fine Arts in Film Production, NQF Level 8. ¿ Postgraduate Diploma in Fine Arts in Screenwriting, NQF Level 8. ¿ Postgraduate Diploma in Film Music, NQF Level 8. ¿ Postgraduate Diploma in Music Performance, NQF Level 8. Diagonal Articulation There is no diagonal articulation for this qualification. |
| MODERATION OPTIONS |
| N/A |
| NOTES |
| N/A |
| LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: |
| NONE |
| PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: |
| This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here. |
| NONE |
| All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source. |