Students of the programme will gain practical experience in performance and production work in key theatre disciplines such as acting, singing and dance, as well as studies in spoken voice, music theory, theatre history, technical theatre skills and research methods. From the second year, students are able to refine programme of study to suit own strengths and interests, choosing to specialise in music theatre, or continue with a broader pathway defined by your own areas of interest and ability. In the final year, most assessment is focused on performance in practice and allows for considerable work integrated learning in industry settings and further specialisation to develop other, performance-related skills within the worlds of applied theatre and theatre for the stage.

NCEA Level 3 (60 credits at Level 3 and 20 credits at Level 2 or higher) which must include 14 credits at Level 3 in each of three approved subject or New Zealand Certificate in Study and Career Preparation (Level 4) Ara Performing Arts Pathway, or equivalent (International Baccalaureate, Cambridge Examination); Proof of English proficiency; Submit the completed Application to Study form with the requested information; Attend an audition. Auditions are held during August and September of each year. Absentee auditions may be arranged (such as overseas applicants) via video-tape or DVD with applicants interviewed by telephone