The Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Applied Theatre Studies at the University of New England offers students a comprehensive and dynamic education in the field of theatre with a focus on practical application and community engagement. This innovative program is designed for students who are passionate about theatre and interested in exploring its transformative potential within diverse social and cultural contexts. Throughout their studies, students will develop a broad set of skills, including theatrical performance, directing, dramaturgy, stage management, and community arts practice. The curriculum emphasizes a blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience, encouraging students to participate in production projects, community-based theatre initiatives, and collaborative performances.
Students will learn about the histories, theories, and methodologies underpinning applied theatre, with modules covering topics such as theatre for social change, participatory theatre, community arts development, and arts advocacy. The program aims to prepare graduates to work in a variety of sectors, including education, health, social services, community development, and arts management. Emphasis is placed on fostering creativity, critical thinking, cultural awareness, and effective communication skills. Students are encouraged to develop innovative approaches to theatre-making that address social issues, empower marginalized groups, and promote cultural inclusion.
The honours component of the program involves a research project or practical thesis, allowing students to explore their specific interests in applied theatre studies in depth. This interdisciplinary program benefits from experienced faculty with backgrounds in theatre, education, social sciences, and community arts, and provides numerous opportunities for internships, industry placements, and networking with local arts organizations. Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Applied Theatre Studies will be equipped to pursue careers as theatre practitioners, community arts workers, arts educators, or to undertake postgraduate studies in related fields. The program is committed to fostering socially conscious and culturally responsive theatre practices that have a meaningful impact on communities and society at large.
The Bachelor of Applied Theatre Studies at the University of New England offers students a comprehensive and dynamic education in the field of applied theatre practices. This program is designed to equip students with the skills, knowledge, and practical experience needed to use theatre as a tool for social change, education, community engagement, and cultural development. Throughout the course, students explore various methodologies of applied theatre, including participatory theatre, drama therapy, community theatre, and theatre for development. The curriculum integrates theoretical foundations with hands-on projects, allowing students to apply their learning in real-world contexts.
Students will engage in rigorous coursework that covers acting, directing, scriptwriting, and theatre production, tailored to community and social contexts. Emphasis is placed on developing communication skills, cultural awareness, and ethical considerations relevant to working within diverse communities. The program encourages innovative thinking and collaborative problem-solving, fostering a studio and community-focused learning environment.
Part of the degree involves internships and practical placements with local community organizations, schools, and arts groups, providing valuable industry experience. Students also study topics related to social justice, human rights, diversity, and inclusion, preparing them to use theatre as a platform for advocacy and change. The program supports the development of professional portfolios, enabling graduates to pursue careers in community arts, education, arts administration, and therapeutic settings.
By the completion of the Bachelor of Applied Theatre Studies, students will have a strong foundation in applied theatre techniques, a portfolio of completed projects, and the confidence to lead innovative theatrical initiatives that make meaningful contributions to society. The program fosters a lifelong commitment to learning and social engagement, positioning graduates as leaders in the cultural and community sectors.
Program requirements for the Bachelor of Arts in Applied Theatre Studies at the University of New England include a combination of core courses, specialization electives, and practical experiences designed to develop students' skills in theatre practice, community engagement, and cultural understanding. Students are expected to complete foundational courses in theatre history, performance techniques, and theatre theory during their first year. In subsequent years, they undertake more advanced modules such as community arts practice, improvisation, drama therapy, and intercultural performance. Practical components are integral to the program, with students participating in workshops, productions, and community project collaborations to gain hands-on experience. The coursework emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, ethical considerations, and innovative methods in applied theatre. To graduate, students must also undertake a capstone project or thesis that demonstrates their ability to apply theatre principles in real-world contexts, reflecting on their learning journey and community impact. Elective options allow students to tailor their studies according to interests such as youth theatre, disability arts, or media integration. The program encourages active participation in local Theatre companies and community organizations, fostering networks for future employment or further study. Additionally, students are required to complete a minimum number of practical hours participating in theatre workshops and community outreach activities. Throughout their studies, students should demonstrate competencies in creative thinking, teamwork, communication, and cultural sensitivity. The program adheres to university academic standards, requiring successful completion of coursework assessments, presentations, reflective journals, and peer reviews. Graduates of the program are equipped to pursue careers in community arts development, theatre facilitation, arts education, or continue with postgraduate research in theatre and performance studies. It is essential for students to engage with contemporary issues through their projects, utilizing applied theatre as a tool for social change, education, and personal development. Compliance with all program guidelines and participation in assessments are mandatory for successful completion.
Want to improve your English level for admission?
Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.
- ✔️ Flexible study schedule
- ✔️ Experienced teachers
- ✔️ Certificate upon completion
📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.
The financing of the Bachelor of Arts in Applied Theatre Studies at the University of New England (UNE) is primarily supported through a combination of government funding, student contributions, scholarships, and other financial aid options. As an Australian university, UNE participates in the Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) scheme, which subsidizes the cost of undergraduate degrees for eligible domestic students, significantly reducing the tuition fee burden. Through CSP, students pay a student contribution amount that varies depending on their field of study, with arts and humanities courses generally falling into a mid-range contribution band. International students, however, are required to pay full tuition fees set by the university, which are higher than those for domestic students under CSP.
In addition to government support, UNE offers a variety of scholarships specifically targeted at students in arts and theatre programs. These scholarships can cover partial or full tuition fees and are awarded based on academic merit, financial need, or specific criteria such as community engagement and talent. International students are also eligible for certain scholarships that can substantially offset tuition costs. Students may also access external grants and sponsorships from arts organizations, cultural institutions, and philanthropic bodies dedicated to supporting arts education and community theatre projects.
Apart from tuition fees, students need to consider additional costs such as trimester fees for coursework materials, production equipment, and participation in practical theatre projects, which are integral parts of the program. The university encourages students to seek part-time employment opportunities on or near campus,, which can help cover living expenses and educational costs. UNE’s student services include financial counseling and guidance on managing education-related expenses, as well as links to external financial assistance programs.
Funding options are also available through government loans such as HECS-HELP (Higher Education Loan Program), for eligible domestic students, enabling them to defer part of their tuition fees until after graduation when they are earning a sufficient income. International students generally do not access these loans and therefore must plan their funding arrangements accordingly.
In the broader context, UNE’s commitment to making arts education accessible is demonstrated through their financial support programs and flexible payment plans. The university regularly updates its financial policies to ensure students have opportunities to manage their studies financially. Overall, the program’s financing structure aims to make applied theatre studies attainable for diverse student populations by combining institutional support, government funding, scholarships, and personal financial planning.
The Bachelor of Applied Theatre Studies at the University of New England (UNE) offers students an immersive education in the practical and theoretical aspects of theatre. Designed to develop versatile skills in performance, production, and arts management, the program emphasizes hands-on learning, critical thinking, and creative problem-solving. Students engage with a diverse range of theatrical practices, including acting, directing, dramaturgy, stagecraft, and community engagement, preparing them for careers in the arts, education, community development, and entertainment industries. The curriculum integrates practical workshops, projects, and industry placements, providing real-world experience and fostering a strong understanding of the theatre sector within a community context. Through innovative pedagogical approaches, students are encouraged to explore theatre as a tool for social change, cultural expression, and personal development. The program also offers opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration, connecting students with other arts disciplines and community organizations. Graduates of the Applied Theatre Studies program develop core competencies such as effective communication, teamwork, project management, and creative thinking, equipping them to adapt to a dynamic and evolving arts landscape. The UNE environment supports a vibrant arts community, with access to state-of-the-art facilities, performance venues, and industry networks. Overall, the program aims to produce reflective, socially conscious theatre practitioners who are capable of making meaningful contributions to society through their artistic initiatives and community involvement.
Currency
EUR
GBP
KZT
INR
RUB