BA (Hons) in Drama, Theatre and Performance, Lancaster University

36 Months

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About this course

This course at Lancaster University focuses on contemporary theatre and performance with an emphasis on experimental 20th and 21st-century work. It aims to teach students how theatre can influence society and create change, combining practical skills with theoretical knowledge. The program offers a flexible range of modules, from Theatre for Social Change to Visual Theatre and Environmental Performance. Students will learn from professional theatre practitioners and academics within a vibrant creative environment, the Lancaster Institute for the Contemporary Arts. Throughout the course, students engage in group projects, participate in creative enterprise modules, and have opportunities for practical performance, culminating in a final degree show. The course prides itself on fostering social impact, innovation, and professional readiness.

Why this course is highly recommended

Lancaster's Drama, Theatre and Performance course stands out due to its top national rankings, including 4th for Drama and 8th for graduate prospects. The university's close relationships with prominent creative and cultural agencies provide students with practical experience and networking opportunities. The course’s focus on social change, flexibility in modules, and the chance to perform in group and final projects make it highly practical and engaging. Student satisfaction ratings have been full marks for two years, reflecting the supportive learning environment. Graduates benefit from a focus on employability, with many moving into diverse roles in theatre, television, film, community arts, and beyond.

Specialisation

Students can focus solely on theatre or explore related areas by combining modules in art, film, or other disciplines within the Lancaster Institute for the Contemporary Arts. The curriculum is designed to give a broad and flexible understanding of contemporary theatre practices, including social change theatre, visual theatre, environmental performance, and postdramatic theatre. This allows students to tailor their degree to fit their interests and career aspirations.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

28.83L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Entry into this course generally requires ABB at A level, with Theatre, Drama, Dance, or Performing Arts considered desirable subjects. Other qualifications such as BTEC, IB, Scottish Highers, and T levels are accepted with specific grades. Applicants are expected to demonstrate practical theatre experience if their qualifications do not include relevant subjects. For English proficiency, an IELTS score of 6.5 overall with at least 5.5 in each component is required. There are no strict GCSE requirements, but overall profiles are considered.

English language test

IELTS

6.5

TOEFL

PTE

DUOLINGO

Want to learn more about the admission process, eligibility criteria, and acceptance rates for international students? Visit the Lancaster University admission page for complete details.

Career prospects

Graduates are highly sought after in various sectors, including theatre, television, film, digital media, community arts, journalism, and education. Typical careers encompass roles such as performers, directors, dramaturgs, writers, producers, technicians, and administrators. Many graduates establish their own theatre companies or small businesses, while others work for charities, NGOs, or international organisations. Many students also pursue postgraduate studies, and the university’s careers service offers ongoing support for career development.

FAQs

Are practical theatre skills considered in admissions?

Yes, practical theatre experience or demonstrated interest in practical theatre are welcomed, especially if the applicant’s qualifications do not include Theatre, Drama, Dance, or Performing Arts.

What modules can I choose in the second and third years?

Students can select from a variety of optional modules, including Devised Theatre, Environmental Performance, Visual Theatre, and Performing Texts, among others, to tailor their degree towards their interests.