BA in Drama and Creative Writing, Royal Holloway, University of London - Egham

36 Months

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About this course

Royal Holloway offers a combined Drama and Creative Writing BA that immerses students in both the practical and theoretical aspects of theatre and literary arts. The course explores how theatre performance and creative writing influence each other, whether as a playwright, poet, or fiction writer. It emphasizes a holistic approach where theory and practice intertwine, enabling students to create performances, analyse texts, and understand industry contexts. The department is renowned for its strength in contemporary British theatre, intercultural performance, dance, physical theatre, and performance practices. Taught by notable scholars, authors, and playwrights, students will develop critical faculties and craft their personal writing styles, with opportunities to specialise in poetry, fiction, or playwriting. The programme combines coursework, performances, and portfolios, preparing students for careers in acting, writing, arts management, broadcasting, or even starting their own arts companies.

Why this course is highly recommended

Royal Holloway's Drama and Creative Writing BA is highly recommended due to its combination of industry-leading teaching, research excellence, and a dynamic campus environment known for its creativity. The course’s integration of theory and practice ensures students gain practical skills alongside critical understanding, making them confident performers and writers. The department’s strong links to the industry offer valuable work experience opportunities. Additionally, the university's high ratings for research and teaching, as well as its location near London, provide students with access to a vibrant theatre scene and literary community that can significantly enhance their future careers.

Specialisation

Students can specialise in different literary forms such as poetry, playwriting, or fiction. The course offers a strong focus on creative development, allowing students to build a portfolio, critique and shape their own artistic work, and develop their writing practice over the years. In the final year, students have the opportunity to pursue honours-level work in their chosen literary form, deepening their expertise and creative voice.

Course fees

Application fees

27.34L

1st year tuition fees

27.34L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants should have A-Levels with grades AAA to AAB, including an essay-based Arts and Humanities subject. A minimum of five GCSEs at grades A*-C (or 9-4), including Maths and English, is also required. Alternative qualifications for international students are accepted, with specific entry criteria depending on the country. English language proficiency must be demonstrated through tests like IELTS (score of 6.5 overall, with 7.0 in writing). For students who do not meet direct entry requirements, the Royal Holloway International Study Centre offers an International Foundation Year to prepare for degree studies.

English language test

IELTS

6.5

TOEFL

PTE

DUOLINGO

120

Want to learn more about the admission process, eligibility criteria, and acceptance rates for international students? Visit the Royal Holloway, University of London - Egham admission page for complete details.

Career prospects

Graduates of this course can pursue diverse careers such as acting, writing, broadcasting (including at the BBC), arts management, sound design, marketing, teaching, community theatre, and arts entrepreneurship. Many students go on to postgraduate study or start their own performing arts companies. The practical experience gained through performances, research, and industry links equips students with technical, imaginative, and project management skills that are highly valued in various creative and media sectors.

FAQs

What are the core modules in the first year?

In the first year, students take modules like Theatre and Performance Making 1, Theatre and Text 1, and Introduction to Creative Writing, which provide foundational knowledge in theatre-making and creative writing.

Can I specialise in a specific literary form?

Yes, in the second year, students can focus on Poetry, Fiction, or Playwriting, and can further specialise at honours level in their chosen form during the final year.