Drama and Theatre Studies

The BA Drama and Theatre Studies programme at Royal Holloway, University of London offers students a comprehensive and interdisciplinary education in the performing arts, emphasizing both practical skills and critical understanding. The course is designed to explore a wide range of theatrical forms, from traditional theatre to contemporary performance practices, encouraging students to develop their own creative voice while fostering analytical thinking. Throughout the programme, students engage with theatrical history, theory, and criticism, alongside practical modules in acting, directing, design, and production. The curriculum aims to provide a balanced training in both the conceptual and collaborative aspects of drama and theatre, preparing graduates for careers in theatre-making, arts management, or further study in related disciplines. Students benefit from close contact with experienced academic staff and industry practitioners, as well as access to state-of-the-art performance facilities and resources. The programme also encourages experiential learning through performance projects, workshops, and internships, giving students real-world experience and professional connections. Graduates of the BA Drama and Theatre Studies programme are equipped with a broad skill set, including critical analysis, creative problem-solving, and effective communication, enabling them to thrive in diverse careers within the arts sector and beyond. The course provides a vibrant academic environment, fostering a community of passionate theatre enthusiasts and aspiring practitioners committed to the transformative power of theatre and performance.

Stage one

Students must take the following mandatory courses

• DT1100 Theatre & Performance Making (1 unit)
• DT1200 Theatre & Text (1 unit)
• DT1300 Theatre & Culture (1 unit)
• DT1400 Theatre & Ideas (1 unit)
• DT1100 must be passed in order to progress to the second stage.

Stage two

Students must take the following mandatory courses

• DT2100 Theatre & Performance Making 2 (1 unit)
• DT2200 Theatre & Text 2 (1 unit)
• DT2300 Theatre & Culture 2 (1 unit)
• DT2400 Theatre & Ideas 2 (1 unit) 

Stage three

Students must take the following mandatory courses

• DT3100 Methods & Processes (1 unit) DT3201/DT3202/DT3203
• Final Year Project (1 unit) DT3301/DT3302/DT3303
• Research Seminar (1 unit)
• DT3400 Culture & Creativity (1 unit)

Requirements

• Requires first year of University completed or A-Levels, IB, or Foundation course for university entry.
• IELTS 6.5 overall

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.

Enroll in the course

Scholarships

• International Excellence Scholarships
• Royal Holloway Bursaries
• Global Education

The Drama and Theatre Studies programme at Royal Holloway offers students a comprehensive education in the history, theory, and practice of drama and theatre. The course is designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and practical performance abilities, preparing graduates for careers in theatre, education, arts management, and related fields. Students explore a wide range of theatrical genres and styles, from classical to contemporary, engaging with both performance and production aspects. The programme includes opportunities for practical workshops, studio work, and engagement with professional practitioners, fostering a hands-on understanding of theatre-making processes.

Students benefit from a vibrant academic community and access to Royal Holloway’s state-of-the-art Theatre, which hosts student performances, lectures, and workshops. The curriculum covers core modules in theatre history, dramatic literature, and performance theory, alongside optional modules that allow students to specialise in areas such as acting, directing, dramaturgy, and stage design. The programme emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical skills, encouraging students to develop their own creative voice through projects and group work.

Royal Holloway’s Drama and Theatre Studies programme also features opportunities for placements and internships in local theatres and arts organisations, giving students valuable industry experience. The university’s strong links with the performing arts sector provide pathways for networking and professional development. Graduates from the programme have gone on to successful careers in theatre companies, television, film, arts administration, and education sectors.

The programme is typically delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops, and independent research. Assessment methods include essays, performance projects, presentations, and reflective portfolios, designed to accommodate diverse learning styles and encourage critical engagement with the subject matter. The department’s academic staff are active researchers and practitioners, bringing current industry insights into the classroom. Overall, the programme aims to equip students with a thorough understanding of drama and theatre, as well as transferable skills such as teamwork, communication, and creative problem-solving, preparing them for a wide range of career options within the arts and beyond.