Technical Theatre HNC
Course code 144W
What is special about this course?
With a growing demand for well-trained, capable support, there are no shortage of behind-the-scenes opportunities in the theatre and events industry.
Gain hands-on experience in lighting and sound systems, stage management, set design and construction, and audio visual systems, and enjoy valuable work experience with established venues across the region.
Special features
- Our links with key industry stakeholders such as the Federation of Scottish Theatres and the Association of British Theatre Technicians will ensure you develop the skills that are in demand in this dynamic world-wide sector
- You will have the opportunity to undertake placements with local venues and events
- Successful completion will give you an nationally recognised qualification
Accommodation
We offer modern student accommodation at a number of our locations.
Entry requirements
- 1 Scottish Higher at grade C or above, OR
- 1 A level at grade D or above
- Applicants with other relevant qualifications and/or experience may be considered on an individual basis.
Year 1 - HNC
Subjects may include:
- Stage management
- Stage lighting: rigging, focusing and operation
- Technical theatre: sound
- Set construction and painting
- Stage audio visual systems
- Health and safety
How will I study my course?
- Full-time
- You will learn through a combination of face-to-face lectures, practical hands-on activities and online study via the university’s virtual learning environment (VLE).
How long will my course last?
- Full-time: 1 year
Where can I study my course?
- Perth
Start date
- September
Fees
For students normally domiciled in Scotland, with a term-time address in Scotland, the following fees apply:
This includes
- EU nationals with settled or pre-settled status in the UK,
- EEA/Swiss nationals with settled status in the UK
- EEA/Swiss nationals with pre-settled status who are self-employed or migrant workers in the UK.
| Higher National Awards (HNC, HND) | 2024-25 | 2025-26 |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time per year | £1,285 | £1,285 |
Rest of UK students
For students normally domiciled in the rest of the UK (England, Wales and N. Ireland, including Channel Islands and the Isle of Man) and with a term time address in Scotland, the following fees apply:
| Higher National Awards (HNC, HND) | 2024-25 | 2025-26 |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time per year | £7,110 | £7,440 |
Fees are payable in advance each academic year unless otherwise agreed.
There are a number of funding options available to UK and EU students to help you pay for your studies and your cost of living while studying (see the Funding section opposite).
International students
For students who do not normally reside in the UK, including EU/EEA and Swiss nationals without settled or pre-settled status in the UK, with a term-time address in Scotland, the following fees apply:
This includes EEA/Swiss nationals with pre-settled status who are not self-employed or migrant workers in the UK.
| Higher National Awards (HNC, HND) | 2024-25 | 2025-26 |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time per year | £8,775 | £8,925 |
Funding
UHI has a number of scholarships, bursaries, awards, and discretionary fund opportunities available to new and current students. Please use the A-Z of funds or use the filter to see which ones may be relevant to you. All students are welcome to apply.
Further information on funding your studies is also available, please see the attached link or contact the relevant UHI partner.
What can I do on completion of my course?
Once you have successfully completed your HNC Technical Theatre, you might like to consider careers in:
- Stage/floor management
- Set design
- Audio engineering
- Light engineering
- AV support
Can I progress into further study?
On successful completion of this course you may progress to the HND Technical Theatre and Production Arts.
Is there more information available online?
You can use the above QR code to connect directly to the course details.
I chose UHI after hearing positive feedback from former students and conducting my own research. I was eager for the opportunities that Perth UHI could offer. I truly appreciate the teaching style of the lecturers at UHI; they are highly attentive and understanding towards each student. The lecturers provide support not only for academic challenges but also for personal matters, celebrating every achievement, big or small. I couldn't have asked for a better support system.
My studies have provided me with valuable knowledge not only in theatre design but also in important skills like leadership and management. This experience has been instrumental in clarifying my future goals and will undoubtedly help advance my career. I assist with in-house productions for the younger students in the theatre department at Perth UHI. I feel fortunate to apply my design and management skills in these productions while also mentoring and enhancing the skills of younger students.
One of my favourite aspects of UHI is its inclusivity. I have always felt welcomed and included here. The support provided by the university is incredible, and they are proactive in assisting their students. I genuinely believe that the journey from my first year to now, along with the connections I've made with lecturers and friends, has positively transformed my life. If given the chance, I would relive the experience without changing a thing.
Morven is studying the BA (Hons) Theatre Industry Practice at UHI Perth.
I didn’t consider any other universities, UHI offered a brilliant course at commuter distance which meant I could stay in work while studying. It offered a good blend of independent and supported learning. I developed my directing skills, to work on my personal relationship with a cast and how to lead a group to the best of their abilities.
Our course leader was incredible, the conversations in her class were an amazing and safe space to learn and challenge each other in and she was great at caring for us all individually as well. My favourite thing about studying at UHI was the friends I made that have turned into colleagues.
Rachel studied Drama and production at UHI Inverness.
Apply for Technical Theatre HNC
We are delighted that you are thinking about studying at the University of the Highlands and Islands. We operate a fair and open admissions system committed to equality of opportunity and non-discrimination. We consider all applications on merit and on the basis of ability to achieve, without discrimination on grounds of gender, age, disability, ethnicity and socio-economic background. We welcome applications from all prospective students and aim to provide appropriate and efficient services to students with disabilities.