Academy of Live Technology

At the Academy of Live Technology (ALT), we do things differently. We’ve built a unique space for creative, technical and ambitious people who want to be part of the fast-moving world of live entertainment - and who are ready to get hands-on from day one.

From backstage to centre stage

We started life as Backstage Academy, founded to train the next generation of live events professionals. As the industry evolved, blurring the lines between music, gaming, broadcast, theatre, and brand experience, so did we.

Today, as ALT, we’re focused on the full spectrum of live events, from production management to creative design and technical direction.

Our mission? To bridge the gap between education and the world of live entertainment, offering something a traditional university can’t.

We don't just teach the industry we are the industry

The definition of ‘live entertainment’ has never been broader. At ALT, we’re here to train and support the next generation of creators, producers and technicians to thrive - not just in today’s industry - but in careers that have yet to be invented.

Our state-of-the-art campuses are live in every sense. From global tours, music festivals, TV & film productions and brand experiences, it’s where professional productions are brought to life - and where your training begins.

From here, you’ll:

• Work on real projects right from the start
• Learn from experienced professionals who care about your progress
• Build a stand-out, industry-ready portfolio

Entry Requirements

• Each programme publishes an academic entry requirement that applicants are required to fulfil. The Academy also has general entry requirements for all its programmes. These entry criteria are published on the Academy’s website and in its programme specifications
• The Academy welcomes a wide range of UK, European and International qualifications.
• Applicants without formal academic qualifications - Applications from potential students without formal academic qualifications may also be considered by the Academy. Applicants may have obtained the ability and knowledge to succeed on a programme from professional, work or personal contexts. In such cases, the Course Leader can use academic discretion to recommend an offer to study on their programme and is required to complete a non-standard entry form available from the Admissions Team. Applicants will still be subject to non-academic entry criteria.
• Applicants with evidence of prior learning (RPL) - Where an applicant has completed prior study, work experience or other training relevant to the programme, the Course Leader may consider an applicant for advanced entry to the programme. In reviewing the application, the Course Leader will consider whether prior learning outcomes and aims, progression and assessment outcomes have been met. The University of Bolton’s Standards and Enhancement Office has oversight of this process and the policy.

International Applications

1. For international students the following procedures must be completed, and a full applicant record created and maintained that includes all the necessary information that is needed before a Confirmation of Acceptance for Study (CAS) is issued.

2. All undergraduate applications are made via the UCAS system.
All postgraduate applications are made directly to the Academy through the website

3. On receipt of the application, admissions staff will undertake an initial test review of the application. The purpose of this initial test is to ensure that:

• • The application meets the Academy’s general entry requirements;
  • The application meets our internal sponsorship policy requirements;
  • The application meets Home Office English language requirements;
  • There is sufficient time to process the application in time for the proposed entry date.

If the applicant is unable to meet the initial criteria, the application will be rejected. The Academy will inform the applicant of the reasons why their application has been rejected. If appropriate, (for example, the reason is the timing of the application), the applicant will be advised to reapply for entry in the following cycle.

4. Once all the information has been received, the admissions team will check and confirm the application shows suitable academic progression, immigration history and visa status.

5. The application is considered in its entirety by the Course Leader and Registry Manager. Based on this consideration the Academy may decide to:

• Reject the application
• Approve the application subject to interview.

6. If, following interview, the applicant is felt to be suitable for the course of study, the Academy issue an initial offer letter. This offer is conditional and will require the student to supply relevant documentation which will be specified in the offer letter.

7. Only once all conditions have been met and final checks made to ensure that all documentary and other required evidence has been submitted and recorded, the applicant’s offer will be made unconditional. A CAS cannot be issued until the unconditional offer has been made.

If you do not hold a British or Irish passport, you’ll likely need a Student Visa. For the latest information and costs, please refer to the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website.

As a registered sponsor, Academy of Live Technology will issue your CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) to begin your visa application once you have:

• An unconditional offer from ALT
• Provided a copy of your passport
• Paid a tuition deposit
• Sufficient funds for tuition and living costs for the first year
• Met the English language requirement
• Completed all the necessary checks required by the UKVI

The UK Government is urging all those across the UK who use a physical immigration document to take immediate action to transition to an eVisa, as part of plans to digitise the UK border and immigration system.

Information on what students need to do and by when, including for students who currently hold a physical immigration document can be found on the UK government website.

Visa Application Deadline

You will need to apply for your visa about 3 months before your course begins. Late applications may delay your entry to the UK, and you may not receive permissions in time for you to start your studies.