BA (Hons) in Spanish Studies and Theatre, Lancaster University

Lancaster,

48 Months

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About this course

Lancaster’s joint Spanish Studies and Theatre degree combines high-level language skills with a deep understanding of Hispanic cultures and an exploration of modern theatre and performance. The course, taught by the School of Global Affairs and Lancaster Institute for the Contemporary Arts, includes an international placement in year 3, giving students practical intercultural experience. In Spanish, students develop linguistic proficiency and learn about the historical, cultural, social, and political backgrounds of Spanish-speaking countries worldwide. Theatre studies cover innovative 20th and 21st-century theatre, blending practical and academic approaches. The curriculum begins with language and theatre basics, then progresses to culture, history, and politics in the Spanish-speaking world, complemented by modules on contemporary theatre practices. Students also minor in another subject alongside their core study of language and theatre, with optional modules exploring diverse themes like performance for social change, environmental performance, and postcolonial studies. The course aims to prepare students both linguistically and culturally for careers in numerous fields.

Why this course is highly recommended

Students interested in Spanish language, Hispanic culture, and innovative theatre will find this course especially valuable. Lancaster’s rankings are notable in Iberian Languages, with third place for Spanish and French and fourth for Italian, reflecting the university’s strength in these areas. The course's structure offers a blend of practical language use, cultural understanding, and theatre practice, which can open doors to many careers including theatre, media, education, and social change. The international placement year abroad is a key feature, providing real-world intercultural experience and language immersion that significantly enhances employability. The course also emphasizes developing transferable skills—like communication, cultural awareness, and teamwork—that are highly sought by employers across sectors worldwide. With dedicated support for placement and career planning, students are well-equipped for future success.

Specialisation

This degree uniquely merges Spanish Studies with Theatre, offering a comprehensive program that develops language proficiency alongside cultural and theatrical knowledge. Students explore a wide range of topics in Hispanic culture, history, politics, and innovative theatre practices, including modules on avant-garde performance, environmental theatre, and applied theatre for social change. The inclusion of an international placement year abroad allows for deep intercultural engagement, whether through study, work placements, or working as a British Council Language Assistant. The course encourages specialisation in areas such as contemporary European theatre, visual and digital performance, and postcolonial studies, supported by a rich variety of optional modules tailored to individual interests. This combination prepares students for diverse careers in arts, social activism, education, or further academic pursuits.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

26.07L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants should have ABB at A-level, including Spanish or equivalent qualifications like GCSE or AS grades in a foreign language or a different language from beginners’ level. Entry from a BTEC Extended Diploma with DDM in Performing Arts and appropriate language evidence is also accepted, alongside other qualifications such as the IB with 32 points. For those studying from beginners, intensive language modules are available. English proficiency requires an IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with at least 5.5 in each component. Additional requirements include demonstrating interest in practical theatre and relevant experience if not studied as part of formal qualifications.

English language test

IELTS

6.5

TOEFL

PTE

DUOLINGO

Career prospects

Graduates can pursue diverse careers in arts, education, social activism, media, and business. Many find roles in theatre as performers, directors, writers, and technicians, while others work in journalism, publishing, or advertising. The skills gained also lend themselves to social work, community arts, or dance therapy. The course’s emphasis on intercultural and transferable skills makes graduates attractive to employers in sectors such as accountancy, IT, e-commerce, business development, civil service, and beyond. Some students continue their studies at Lancaster for postgraduate research or professional qualifications. The university’s programs in translation, arts management, and consultancy further support career development in language-related fields.

FAQs

Is the placement year compulsory?

Yes, the international placement year abroad is a key part of the program for Spanish and other language students, designed to enhance language proficiency and intercultural understanding.

Can I study a language from beginners' level?

Yes, students can study a language from beginners’ level, but this involves intensive language modules and limited optional modules in other languages at this level.