English with Drama

The BA in English with Drama at University College London offers students a unique interdisciplinary education that combines the study of English literature with the practical and theoretical aspects of drama. This innovative program is designed to cultivate a deep understanding of the development of English literary traditions alongside the rich history and diverse forms of theatrical performance. Students will explore a wide range of texts from different historical periods, including medieval, renaissance, modern, and contemporary works, while also engaging with dramatic techniques, performance practices, and theatrical theory. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and creative expression, preparing graduates for careers in writing, teaching, theatre production, academia, or media. Through lectures, seminars, workshops, and performance projects, students will have opportunities to collaborate with peers and experienced practitioners, gaining hands-on experience in stagecraft, script analysis, and theatrical innovation. The program also encourages research-based inquiry and offers access to UCL’s extensive resources, including libraries, archives, and performance spaces. With a flexible structure, students can tailor their studies to match their interests, whether they aim to focus more on literary analysis, drama and performance, or a combination of both. The degree promotes an understanding of how literature and theatre influence and reflect society, fostering cultural awareness and intellectual growth. Graduates of this program will be well-equipped with the skills necessary for diverse careers in the arts, education, publishing, or cultural policy, and will have gained a broad, critical perspective on the interplay between text and performance in English heritage.

You will develop an understanding of classroom practice and the theories underpinning teaching and learning in English, media and drama. You will work with others to produce assessed theatre in education (TiE) presentations for children in partnership schools. This will develop your understanding of how drama and theatre can be applied to teaching and learning.

Students undertake two level 7 (Master’s-level) modules of 30 credits each, totaling 60 credits. These can be carried forward onto full Master’s programmes at the IOE.

The Secondary PGCE consists of three core modules: two Master’s-level (level 7) modules, which are assessed through written assignments, and the Professional Practice module, which is assessed by the observation of practical teaching in placement schools.

Completion of the Professional Practice module and the two level 7 (Master’s level) modules (60 credits) will result in the award of a Postgraduate Certificate of Education (PGCE). Completion of the Professional Practice module and one or two level 6 (undergraduate/Bachelor’s level) modules, will lead to the Professional Graduate Certificate of Education (PgCE).

Core modules

• Language, Culture and Learning (30 Master's-level credits)
• Theatre in Education (30 Master's-level credits)
• Professional Practice

Placement

You will spend most of your time (120 days) in schools, working with English and drama mentors who support you through your two school placements. We are fortunate to have a good choice of schools with whom we work, with some outstanding mentors and strong English and drama departments. The Professional Practice module is assessed through these placements, associated tasks and a portfolio.

Teaching and learning

The programme is delivered via keynote lectures, subject lectures, seminars, workshops, tutorials and directed study days at the IOE, as well as time spent in placements. Assessment is by practical teaching, assignments and portfolio tasks.
Students will also record their progress in a Career Entry and Development Profile statement. This will form part of an ongoing portfolio charting the student's continuing professional development.

First degree

Normally a minimum of a lower second-class UK Bachelor’s degree or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard in an English-related subject, including Drama. Other subjects may be considered if A level English, or the equivalent, has been obtained and the candidate has a suitable depth and breadth of subject knowledge.

A levels

A pass in English, or equivalent, required where degree subject is not in a cognate field.

GCSEs

English Language and Mathematics at grade C.

School experience

Prospective students must complete a minimum of five days of school experience before they can be enrolled on the Secondary PGCE. This may involve observations, work experience (e.g. as a teaching assistant or cover supervisor), or voluntary work. Applicants must have a minimum of one day's school experience before interview; some subjects will be looking for significantly more than this. Applicants must ensure that their school experience is relevant in helping them to prepare for the Secondary PGCE, during which Student Teachers are placed in a wide range of schools across London and the South East.

DBS and Occupational Health

If you are made an offer you will be required to successfully complete Occupational Health and Disclosure Barring Service (DBS) Enhanced Disclosure checks. The total cost of these checks is £125. These checks are required to ensure you meet the Department for Education’s requirements for physical and mental health to teach, as well as assessing your suitability for access to children and vulnerable adults.

Skills tests

All applicants must successfully complete professional skills tests in literacy and numeracy before they can enrol. 

Bursaries of up to £9,000 are available to students who meet the eligibility criteria for the English programme.

The BA English with Drama programme at University College London offers students an exceptional opportunity to explore the rich worlds of English literature alongside dramatic arts. This interdisciplinary course is designed to foster both analytical skills and creative expression, equipping students with a comprehensive understanding of literary texts, theatrical forms, and their cultural contexts. Throughout the programme, students engage with a broad spectrum of literary genres—from medieval poetry to contemporary fiction—while simultaneously studying various aspects of drama, including playwriting, performance techniques, and theory. The curriculum encourages critical thinking, close reading, and practical performance experience, often integrating workshops, seminars, and live productions. Students benefit from UCL’s central London location, which provides access to world-class theatre, literary archives, and cultural events, enriching their academic journey. The programme aims to develop students' articulation, research competencies, and interpretative skills, laying a strong foundation for careers in education, theatre, publishing, media, or further academic research. The department emphasizes a collaborative learning environment, with small seminar groups and opportunities for independent study. Graduates of this programme are well-prepared to pursue postgraduate studies or to enter creative and cultural industries, utilizing their interdisciplinary knowledge and critical skills. UCL's English with Drama course is taught by leading scholars and practitioners committed to fostering academic excellence and creative practice. The course structure includes core modules in literature and drama, option modules allowing specialization, and a final-year project or dissertation. By combining rigorous academic study with creative exploration, UCL’s English with Drama programme offers a distinctive educational experience that emphasizes both intellectual development and artistic practice.