Religious Studies and Drama

Program Description:

The Religious Studies and Drama joint honours degree at the University of Kent offers students a unique opportunity to explore the rich and diverse traditions of religious belief and practice alongside the dynamic world of theatrical performance. This interdisciplinary programme is designed to provide an in-depth understanding of the central themes, historical developments, and cultural significance of major world religions, while also developing practical skills and theoretical insights in drama and performance studies. By combining these two fields, students will gain a comprehensive perspective on how religion influences society, culture, and individual identity, as well as how theatrical arts can serve as a powerful medium for expressing and examining spiritual and philosophical ideas. The programme emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and creative expression, preparing graduates for careers in education, arts, broadcasting, the non-profit sector, or further academic research. The curriculum includes modules on religious traditions such as Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, and Judaism, alongside courses in drama, stagecraft, directing, and performance theory. Through lectures, seminars, workshops, and practical performances, students will engage with texts, performances, and religious practices, gaining both intellectual understanding and hands-on experience. The programme also encourages student-led projects, collaborative performances, and study abroad opportunities to enrich the learning experience. Graduates from this programme will have a nuanced appreciation of the complex ways in which religion and drama intersect and influence each other, equipping them with versatile skills applicable in a broad range of professional contexts. With access to excellent facilities, experienced faculty, and vibrant campus life, students will be supported throughout their academic journey to develop critical, creative, and intercultural competencies that are highly valued in today’s globalized society.

Detailed Course Facts

Application deadline January 15 Tuition fee

• GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
• GBP 12450 Year (Non-EEA)

Start date September 2015 Credits (ECTS) 180 ECTS
Credits Total Kent credits: 360
Duration full-time 36 months Partnership Joint Languages Take an IELTS test

• English

Delivery mode On Campus Educational variant Full-time More information Go To The Course Website

Course Content

The course structure below gives a flavour of the modules that will be available to you and provides details of the content of this programme. This listing is based on the current curriculum and may change year to year in response to new curriculum developments and innovation. Most programmes will require you to study a combination of compulsory and optional modules, you may also have the option to take ‘wild’ modules from other programmes offered by the University in order that you may customise your programme and explore other subject areas of interest to you or that may further enhance your employability.

Stage 1

Possible modules may include:

DR315 - Modern Theatre: A Theoretical Landscape

DR337 - The Empty Space

TH331 - Introduction to Hinduism & Buddhism

TH334 - Religion and Sex

TH340 - Gods of the Desert: Judaism and Islam

TH341 - What is Religion?

TH342 - Religion in the Contemporary World

TH345 - From: Eden To The End of The World: An Introduction to The Bible

TH346 - Introduction to Asian Traditions

You have the opportunity to select wild modules in this stage

Stage 2

Possible modules may include:

DR594 - Popular Performance

DR609 - European Naturalist Theatre & Its Legacy

DR663 - Physical Theatre 1

DR549 - Acting

DR575 - Victorian and Edwardian Theatre

DR612 - Shakespeare's Theatre

DR667 - Site Specific Performance

DR669 - European Theatre from 1945

DR671 - Puppet and Object Theatre

DR673 - Theatres of the Past 1: the Classics

DR674 - Performance and Art: Intermediality from Wagner to the Virtuals

DR681 - Theatres of the Past 2: The Moderns

DR682 - Theatre and Music

TH570 - I:Religion and Film

TH571 - I:Death of God ? :Christianity and the Modern World

TH618 - Continental Philosophy of Religion

TH620 - Anthropology of Religion

TH624 - Indian Philosophy of Religion

TH594 - Christianity and Ethics

TH598 - Issues in Religious Studies

TH601 - Hindu Religious Thought

TH606 - William James: Philosopher, Psychologist and Scholar of Religion

TH608 - Sociology of Religion

TH611 - The Sacred in Contemporary Society

TH626 - Gods and Government from the Roman Empire to Tony Blair

TH628 - Gods and Government from the Roman Empire to Tony Blair

TH630 - Comparative Literature and Religion of Biblical Worlds

TH632 - Comparative Literature and Religion of Biblical Worlds

TH634 - Mahåyåna Buddhism: The Foundations

You have the opportunity to select wild modules in this stage

Year abroad

Three-year joint honours students can apply to spend a year or a term abroad studying at a university either in Europe or the USA.

Stage 3

Possible modules may include:

DR683 - Performing Philosophy

DR676 - Introduction to Stand Up

DR678 - Creative Project

DR680 - Theatre & Adaptation

DR619 - Playwriting I: For Beginners

DR629 - Cultural Policies in the British Theatre

DR635 - Dance & Discourse: Dramaturgies of Moving Bodies

DR636 - The Shakespeare Effect

DR648 - Applied Theatre

DR659 - Performing Classical Texts

DR592 - New Directions

DR548 - Theatre & Journalism

DR664 - Physical Theatre II

DR610 - Performing Lives: Theory & Practice of Autobiographical Theatre

TH635 - Mahåyåna Buddhism: The Foundations

TH633 - Comparative Literature and Religion of Biblical Worlds

TH631 - Comparative Literature and Religion of Biblical Worlds

TH629 - Gods and Government from the Roman Empire to Tony Blair

TH627 - Gods and Government from the Roman Empire to Tony Blair

TH612 - The Sacred in Contemporary Society

TH617 - Continental Philosophy of Religion

TH607 - William James: Philosopher, Psychologist and Scholar of Religion

TH625 - Indian Philosophy of Religion

TH621 - Anthropology of Religion

TH619 - Religious Studies and Philosophy in the Classroom

TH574 - H:Religion and Film

TH575 - H:Death of God ? :Christianity and the Modern World

TH577 - Christianity and Ethics

TH515 - Theology and Religious Studies Dissertation

TH553 - Issues in Religious Studies

TH555 - Hindu Religious Thought

TH558 - Sociology of Religion

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6.5

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

take an IELTS test.

Requirements

The University will consider applications from students offering a wide range of qualifications, typical requirements are listed below, students offering alternative qualifications should contact the Admissions Office for further advice. It is not possible to offer places to all students who meet this typical offer/minimum requirement.

Qualification Typical offer/minimum requirement

• A level: BBB

• Access to HE Diploma: The University of Kent will not necessarily make conditional offers to all access candidates but will continue to assess them on an individual basis. If an offer is made candidates will be required to obtain/pass the overall Access to Higher Education Diploma and may also be required to obtain a proportion of the total level 3 credits and/or credits in particular subjects at merit grade or above.

• BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma (formerly BTEC National Diploma): The university will consider applicants holding BTEC National Diploma and Extended National Diploma Qualifications (QCF; NQF;OCR) on a case by case basis please contact us via the enquiries tab for further advice on your individual circumstances.

• International Baccalaureate: 34 points overall or 15 points at HL including Theatre 5 at HL or 6 at SL (where taken)

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

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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

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of Kent.

Religious Studies and Drama at the University of Kent offers students a unique interdisciplinary education that explores the rich intersections between religious traditions, beliefs, practices, and theatrical performance. This programme combines the academic study of religion with practical and theoretical aspects of drama, enabling students to gain a comprehensive understanding of how religious themes are expressed, represented, and experienced through theatrical arts. The curriculum includes modules on the history and philosophy of religion, current debates in religious studies, as well as courses in performance, scriptwriting, directing, and theatrical techniques. Students have opportunities to examine religious texts, rituals, and cultural expressions alongside practical drama training, fostering critical thinking, creativity, and communication skills. The programme aims to prepare graduates for careers in a variety of fields such as arts and culture management, education, community work, and further academic research. Students benefit from the university’s strong connections with local theatres, religious communities, and cultural organizations, providing real-world experience and networking opportunities. The programme encourages an interdisciplinary approach, promoting understanding and respect for diverse religious traditions while developing artistic talents. Assessment methods include essays, performance projects, presentations, and practical exams, supporting diverse learning styles. The programme is suitable for students interested in exploring complex questions about belief, identity, and society through both scholarly inquiry and artistic expression. Graduates leave with a broad skill set that includes critical analysis, creative performance, and cultural awareness, making them well-equipped for numerous professional paths or advanced study. The university’s vibrant campus environment, combined with expert faculty members in both religious studies and drama, creates a stimulating learning atmosphere that supports individual development and academic excellence.