BACHELOR OF PERFORMING ARTS (HONOURS)

At Taylor's University, we proudly partner with The Actors Studio to bring you Malaysia's first Performing Arts Conservatory Degree. Through the Bachelor of Performing Arts (Honours), students experience a vibrant fusion of artistic training, critical theory, and real-world practice.

With a curriculum shaped by leading industry professionals and academics, our students are in high demand for their versatility and depth of training. Spaces in this innovative programme are limited, ensuring an immersive, personalised learning journey for every performer. Guided by industry veterans, develop your talents across theatre, dance, music, and more (think marketing, fintech, or even psychology), while building critical thinking, cultural awareness, and social engagement skills that take you further in the performing arts industry.

Embark on a transformative journey with our performing arts programme, where you will learn from highly qualified academicians and esteemed industry leaders dedicated to nurturing the next generation of creative professionals. Our programme is designed to equip you with the knowledge, skills, and practical insights necessary to excel in your chosen field.

The programme contains modules that include Performance, Directing, History of Theatre, Devising Performance Text, Voice and Speech, Movement, Technical Theatre, Stage Costume, Hair and Makeup, Stage Lighting, Stage Sound, Stage Set Design, Stage Management, Scenography, Dance and Music.

• Led by Joe Hasham OAM, Adjunct Professor & Programme Artistic Director and Dato' Dr. Faridah Merican, Adjunct Professor & Programme Development Director
• Co-created, co-designed and co-delivered by The Actors Studio, Taylor's University and top industry professionals
   
• Collaborative teaching & learning by leaders in education and performing arts
   
• Flexible learning spaces at Taylor's University Lakeside and The Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre (klpac)

This programme is compatible with the new Taylor's Curriculum Framework that allow you to mix & match study modules.

Primary Core

This component consists of core subjects, which are primary modules across a discipline that provides the fundamental knowledge of the discipline.

Year 1

• Introduction to Performing Arts
• History of Theatre
• Introduction to Acting

Year 2

• Acting 1
• Fundamentals of Choir Performance
• Fundamentals Mechanics of Filmmaking
• Introduction to Creative Writing
• Introduction to Dance and Creative Processes
• Directing 1 & 2

Year 3

• Production Practicum
• Production and Stage Management
• Research Methodology
• Internship

Note: All information is subject to change. Readers are responsible for verifying information that pertains to them by contacting the university.

Specialisation

• Performance Specialisation: 
• This track is your gateway to a world of storytelling and expression, equipping you with the tools to bring characters to life. Dive into the art of devising performance texts, master the nuances of voice and speech, and let your body speak through movement. Through our acting modules, you'll also refine your skills to captivate any audience.
   

Subjects:

• Devising Performance Text
• Voice and Speech 1 & 2
• Movement 1 & 2
• Acting 2 & 3
• Music Specialisation: 
• Perfect your language and diction, and learn the art of movement and stagecraft to become a versatile musician. Develop your ear and musicianship skills, and dive deep into vocal studies. Your talent is your instrument, so you will explore a rich repertoire of songs and scenes while honing your craft.
   

Subjects:

• Language and diction
• Movement and stagecraft
• Musicianship and ear training
• Principle vocal studies
• Repertory and song
• Scene studies
• Vocal styles and musical theatre
• Dance Specialisation: 
• Step into a world of movement and rhythm. Embrace the grace of Ballet, the expressive flair of Contemporary Dance, the vibrant energy of Hip Hop and Jazz Dance, and even the rich traditions of Silat and Malaysian Traditional Dance. Dance isn't just an art; it's a language of the soul, and this track guides you to become fluent.
   

Subjects:

• Ballet Technique I & II
• Contemporary Dance I & II
• Hip Hop and Jazz Dance
• Silat
• Malaysian Traditional Dance

University Core

This component aims to develop critical thinking, build up social intelligence and cultivate civic responsibility as well as broaden cultural knowledge. These consist of compulsory and nationally-mandated study modules required by the Malaysian Ministry of Higher Education.

• Penghayatan Etika dan Peradaban / Bahasa Melayu Komunikasi 2
• Falsafah dan Isu Semasa
• Emotional Intelligence in Action
• Kursus Integriti Dan Antirasuah
• Social Innovation Project

Note:

1. Students are requested to take Bahasa Kebangsaan A if they do not obtain a Credit for Bahasa Malaysia in SPM.
2. All information is subject to change. Readers are responsible for verifying information that pertains to them by contacting the university.

Flexible Education

You will need to select any one (1) of the Free Electives offered by Taylor's University. You can refer to the Flexible Education Guide for the complete list.

The free electives offered are subject to availability and you will need to meet the minimum module pre and co-requisite.

FUTURE CAREERS

When you've successfully completed this Bachelor of Performing Arts programme, you could embark on any of these exciting careers, including:

Stage, TV, and Film

• Actor / Actress, Singer, Dancer
• Director
• Writer
• Producer
• Stage Manager
• Production Manager
• Performer
• Scriptwriter
• Presenter
• Movement Coach
• Corporate Training
• Storyteller

Education

• Drama teacher
• Dance teacher
• Voice teacher
• Arts researcher
• Speech Teacher
• Teacher / Lecturer

Advocacy and Media

• Arts and Culture Manager
• Curator
• Arts writer / Critic

Our programme offers an exciting opportunity for individuals passionate about the field of Bachelor of Performing Arts programme. To ensure a smooth admission process, please take note of our entry requirements listed below.

Prerequisites

SPM / O-Level with Pre-U / Foundation

Pass SPM / O-Level or equivalent with 5 credits for entry with Pre-University / Foundation qualification (Except for UEC).

SPM / O-Level with Diploma

Pass SPM / O-Level or equivalent with 3 credits for entry with Diploma qualification.

Note: 

• 1. Candidates need to pass BM and History at SPM level.
• 2. All information is subject to change. Readers are responsible for verifying information that pertains to them by contacting the university.

Audition

Prepare adequately for the audition with the guidance provided by our experts, tailored to meet the requirements of each specialisation.

1. Format:

• Video recording (MP4 or MOV format preferred) 
• Duration: 2–5 minutes 
• Clear audio and visual quality 

2. Content:

• Dance Specialisation: One solo piece (contemporary, traditional, or classical) demonstrating technique, creativity, and performance quality. (2-3 minutes) 
• Music Specialisation: One performance of a chosen song (2-3 minutes). 
• Performance Specialisation: One monologue, original or published play showing character interpretation and vocal clarity. (2-3 minutes) 

3. Introduction

State the following details before beginning your performance:

• Full name
• Specialisation (Dance / Music / Performance)
• Title of your piece

4. Submission Method

• Upload your video to YouTube, and submit the link only
• File name format: FullName_Specialisation_Audition2026

5. Assessment Criteria

• Technique and control
• Creativity and originality
• Expression and interpretation
• Stage presence and confidence
• Overall presentation

Entry Pathway

Specialisation Audition

Pass

Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM)

Min. CC

Unified Examination Certificate (UEC)

Pass with min. 5Bs

A Level

Min. DD

AUSMAT (SACEi)

Min. ATAR 50

Canadian Pre-University (CPU)

Min. average of 50% in 6 subjects

International Baccalaureate (IB)

Min. 24 points in 6 subjects

Monash University Foundation Year (MUFY)

50%

MOHE Matriculation

Pass with min. CGPA 2.00

Taylor’s Foundation and Diploma programmes

Pass any Taylor's Foundation / Diploma programme with CGPA 2.00

Other Equivalent Qualification

Pass Foundation from any other institution recognised by MOHE; or

Pass Diploma from any other institution recognised by MOHE; or

Pass Matriculation from an institution recognised by MOHE; or

Any other equiv. qualification recognized by M'sian Government.

Application via APEL A is allowed.

Note: 

1.  All Malaysian students are required to attain a Pass in Bahasa Melayu and English in SPM / O-Level / UEC / IGCSE or equivalent.
2. All information is subject to change. The above entry requirements serve as a guideline. Readers are responsible to verify the information by contacting the university’s Admissions Department.
3. Students must pass auditions for the performance, dance, and music tracks.

English Requirements

LOCAL STUDENTS

IELTS, TOEFL, MUET, UEC English

Pass English

Taylor's EET

Overall Score 5.0

Taylor's IEN

Level 2 - Grade C

Pre-U/Diploma

Completed Pre-U/Diploma that was conducted in English

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

IELTS

5.0

Pre-U/Diploma

Completed Pre-U/Diploma that was conducted in English

And

Technical Theatre track

Pass Interview; or

Performance track

Pass Audition 

STUDENT PASS / VISA REQUIREMENTS (INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS)

All international students who plan to study full-time in Malaysia are required to obtain a Student Pass (Student Visa) before starting their studies.

• You must receive an official Offer Letter from the university before applying for a student pass

• The university will submit your Student Pass application through Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS) on your behalf

• A Visa Approval Letter (VAL / eVAL) is required before travelling to Malaysia

• Studying on a tourist or social visit visa is not permitted

• Your passport must be valid for at least 18 months from your intended intake date

• Visa processing time depends on EMGS and Malaysian Immigration approval

• After arriving in Malaysia, all students must complete a medical check-up at an EMGS-registered clinic

• Your Student Pass will be issued only after medical clearance and document verification

• Continuing students must renew their Student Pass before it expires

DOCUMENTS REQUIRED FOR STUDENT PASS APPLICATION

The following documents are commonly required for all international students:

• Valid passport (clear scanned copy of all pages, including blank pages)

• Passport-size photograph with a white background

• Official Offer Letter from the university

• Academic certificates and transcripts related to your programme

• English language proficiency certificate (IELTS / TOEFL or equivalent), if required

• Proof of acceptance or tuition fee payment (if requested by the university)

• Student Pass / Visa processing fee as determined by EMGS

• Completed EMGS Health Declaration Form (if applicable)

Please note: All documents not originally in English must be submitted together with certified English translations.

ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTS (IF APPLICABLE)

Some students may be asked to provide extra documents depending on their situation:

• Release Letter and Visa Cancellation Letter (for students transferring from another institution in Malaysia)

• School Leaving Certificate (for foundation or diploma applicants)

• Sponsorship or Scholarship Letter (if your studies are funded)

• Proof of financial support to cover tuition fees and living expenses

• Statutory Declaration (if there are name differences across documents)

• Resume or Character Reference Letter (commonly required for applicants above 23 years old)

• Police Clearance Certificate (if requested by EMGS or embassy authorities)

• Copy of previous Malaysian visa or Resident Pass (if applicable)

AFTER ARRIVING IN MALAYSIA

Once you arrive in Malaysia, you will need to:

• Complete a medical examination at an EMGS-approved clinic

• Submit your passport for Student Pass endorsement

• Receive a temporary Special Pass (if applicable) while your Student Pass is being processed

• Collect your Student Pass and complete university registration

IMPORTANT REMINDERS

• Student Pass requirements are set by Malaysian Immigration and EMGS and may vary by nationality
• The university’s International Office will guide you through each step of the process
• Students are strongly advised to prepare documents at least 2–3 months before intake
• Requirements may change, so always follow the latest instructions provided by the university