Interested in becoming a screen actor?

In the German-speaking area, there are few training programmes focused on film, such as those offered by the Academy of Performing Arts Baden-Württemberg and the Film University Babelsberg Konrad Wolf. The situation is different in English-speaking countries, which feature comprehensive training programmes in film like those at the GFCA - Giles Foreman Centre for Acting, as well as a wide range of film workshops in the framework of further education courses by private providers. While these international offers may provide insights into the craft of acting in front of the camera, they cannot substitute for a thorough academic education. Furthermore, the fees for such training are usually very high.

• Camera Acting
• Acting Techniques (e.g., Method Acting, Meisner Technique, Chubbuck Technique, Malmgren Method)
• Body and Voice Training
• Microphone Speaking
• Motion Capture, Green Screen
• Casting, E-Casting, Showreels
• Film and Screenplay Analysis

Important qualities certainly include acting potential, both on stage and on camera. Other personal attributes required are strong motivation, spontaneity, discipline, resilience, imagination, a solid general education, the ability to concentrate, the capacity for dialogue, the skill of giving and receiving criticism, joy in trying new things, observational skills, empathy, potential for physical, linguistic, and artistic expression, and the ability to reflect on a text.

Generally, a highschool diploma or equivalent, with specific prerequisites completed depending on the programme (in Switzerland, Matur or equivalent secondary education diploma) is required for a BA programme. If a special talent is recognized, some state schools may also admit students without a university entrance qualification. For a MA program, a BA degree or equivalent is generally necessary.

Professional film actors work in film, television, radio, theater, or in the production of gaming and animation film. The field for actors has grown and diversified in recent years, especially with the increased production of film and series by streaming providers and the growing gaming industry.

Each film acting school has a different admissions procedure. Generally, a motivation letter and a video application are required, which may be supplemented by an aptitude test on-site or online. Often, an individual interview is also conducted. Learn more about the audition process for the HKB's Master in Acting for Screen and Digital Media here.

Courses and workshops are offered throughout the year. For higher education programmes, the academic year usually starts in either spring or autumn. The starting date for the HKB Master's programme in Acting for Screen and Digital Media is in February; you'll find the examination dates here. 

It is worth thoroughly researching the institution or university you want to study at. Each acting school has its own profile and focuses on different aspects. In the Master in Acting for Screen & Digital Media at HKB, you learn what it takes to act professionally in various settings related to film and digital media. Moreover, the training at HKB is internationally oriented and the teaching language is English.

You have the opportunity to participate in one of our webinars to answer specific questions related to a training in film acting and to ask your own questions. If you are interested in the Master's program Acting for Screen & Digital Media, the best way to proceed is to attend one of the upcoming information events or get in touch with us directly at: theater@hkb.bfh.ch.