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

Egham,

36 Months

Check Eligibility

About this course

Royal Holloway offers a unique joint degree in English and Drama, enabling students to explore the rich history and modern developments of English literature alongside theatre and performance. The English component covers a wide range of literature from Beowulf to contemporary global literatures, allowing you to study key periods, genres, authors, and even develop your own creative writing. The Drama side emphasizes performance, text analysis, and critical ideas, with strengths in contemporary British theatre, intercultural performance, dance, and physical theatre. The course seamlessly integrates theory and practice, preparing you to become an informed theatre-maker with a broad understanding of the industry. Assessment includes coursework, performances, and presentations, fostering a dynamic learning environment in a creative campus setting.

Why this course is highly recommended

Royal Holloway’s English and Drama BA stands out due to its interdisciplinary approach, blending textual study with practical performance skills. The department’s top-rated teaching and research reputation, particularly in contemporary British theatre, intercultural performance, and physical theatre, add immense value. The course’s strong industry links and work experience opportunities prepare students for careers in acting, writing, arts management, broadcasting, and more. With a focus on creative, analytical, and practical skills, graduates are well-equipped for leadership roles and further study, making this program one of the most comprehensive and industry-relevant options available.

Specialisation

This degree combines the study of English literature with Drama and Theatre, covering areas like Shakespeare, Renaissance literature, Victorian novels, modernism, postmodernism, and contemporary global literatures. Additionally, students can explore specialised modules in theatre history, performance practices, physical theatre, directing, devising, and film acting, among others. The course encourages choosing from a wide range of optional modules to tailor your studies according to your interests, whether in literary theory, specific genres, or theatre practices, making it a comprehensive and flexible program.

Course fees

Application fees

27.34L

1st year tuition fees

27.34L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants typically need A-levels in the range of AAB to ABB, with a B in an essay-based subject, along with at least five GCSEs at grades A*-C or 9-4 including English and Mathematics. Other qualifications like the IB, BTECs, Scottish Highers, and Irish Leaving Certificate are also accepted, with specific entry standards. For international students, English language proficiency requires IELTS score of 7.0 overall, with no subscore below 5.5, or equivalent in other tests. Students must also meet country-specific entry criteria, or consider an International Foundation Year if necessary.

English language test

IELTS

TOEFL

PTE

DUOLINGO

130

Career prospects

Graduates from this program can pursue careers in acting, writing, broadcasting, arts management, sound design, marketing, teaching, and community theatre, among others. The course’s emphasis on performance and research skills, coupled with industry links, ensures students gain practical experience that enhances employability. Many alumni have started their own performing arts companies or moved into postgraduate study. The degree’s broad skill set—covering research, project management, and performance—makes graduates versatile and competitive for a variety of roles in the creative industries.

FAQs

What is the duration of the course?

The course lasts for 3 years when studied full-time.

What are the industry links and work experience opportunities?

Royal Holloway offers work experience with theatres and arts agencies, supporting students to connect academic learning with industry practice.