Theatre and Creative Writing

The Theatre and Creative Writing programme at Brunel University London offers a dynamic and comprehensive exploration of the performing arts and literary creation, designed to equip students with the essential skills needed to thrive in contemporary theatre and writing industries. This interdisciplinary course combines rigorous academic study with practical application, fostering both theoretical understanding and creative innovation. Students will engage with a diverse range of theatrical practices, from classical to contemporary styles, gaining hands-on experience in acting, directing, script development, and production management. Additionally, the programme emphasizes the craft of creative writing across various genres, including fiction, poetry, and playwriting, encouraging students to develop their unique voices and storytelling techniques. The curriculum is delivered by experienced professionals and academics who are active within the arts sector, ensuring that students benefit from current industry insights and networks. Throughout the course, students will participate in workshops, productions, and literary events, providing them with valuable opportunities for professional development and exposure. The programme also fosters an understanding of the cultural, social, and political contexts of theatre and literature, promoting critical thinking and analytical skills. With state-of-the-art facilities, including theatre spaces, editing suites, and resource-rich libraries, Brunel provides an inspiring environment for nurturing creativity and innovation. Graduates of this programme will be well-prepared for careers in theatre production, directing, writing, publishing, arts management, and related fields. They will also possess the foundation to pursue postgraduate studies or establish their own creative projects. Combining theory with practice, the Theatre and Creative Writing programme at Brunel University London aims to cultivate versatile and reflective practitioners who can contribute meaningfully to the arts and cultural sectors.

Detailed Course Facts

• GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
• GBP 13000 Year (Non-EEA)

• English

Course Content

Typical Modules

Level 1

• Perspectives: Performance Analysis

• Ensemble Production

• Introduction to Writing Fiction

• Introduction to Writing Drama

Plus two from the following Theatre creative skills modules:

• Acting: Essential Skills

• Applied Drama Practice: an Introduction

• Digital Performance 1

• Directing 1: Contexts, Theories and Practices

• Playwriting 1

• Musical Theatre 1

• Physical Theatre 1: Between Dance and Theatre

And one of the following Creative Writing option modules:

• Thinking About Literature

• Approaches to Dramatic Text

• Approaches to Poetry and Prose

Level 2

• Perspectives 2

• Writing the Short Story

Plus two of the following Theatre creative skills modules:

• Acting: Beyond Naturalism

• Directing 2: Contexts, Theories and Practices

• Writing 2: Experiments in Language for Performance

• Applied Drama Practice: Project

• Physical Theatre 2: Performance and Embodiment

• Digital Performance 2

• Musical Theatre

• Performance as Research

And two of the following Creative Writing option modules:

• Writing Contemporary Poetry

• Writing Journalism

• Screenwriting

• Writing the Journey

Level 3 Core

You will undertake a substantial practical or written dissertation project in your final year:

• Final Production (practical)

• Written Dissertation

Plus four of the following, creating a 50% balance between Theatre and Creative Writing:

• Perspectives 3: Battling with Ideas

• Professional Experience and Development

• The Canon Reloaded

• Advanced Physical Theatre

• New Writing: Page to Stage

• Advanced Musical Theatre

• Writing Modern Fiction

• Writing Comedy

• Writing Modern Drama

• Creative Writing and the Creative Industries

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6.5

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

Requirements

• GCE A-level ABB – BBB. Typical offer ABB, including Grade B in Theatre Studies, Drama or Performing Arts and Grade B in English or Creative Writing.

• BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma D*DD in a related subject (Applicants without A-level English or Creative Writing will be required to submit a written sample of work on request)

• BTEC Level 3 Diploma D*D in a related subject with an A-Level in English or Creative Writing at grade A.

• BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma D in a related subject with A-Levels grade AA including English or Creative Writing.

• International Baccalaureate Diploma 33 points, including Higher Level 5 in English and Theatre.

• Access to Higher EducationDiploma Complete and pass a related subject Access course with 45 credits at level 3 and 15 credits at level 2 with Merits in all units. All English units must be Distinctions at level 3 and must provide a sample of creative writing.

Applicants with relevant theatre experience may also be considered.

GCSE Mathematics grade C and GCSE English grade C are also required.

English Language Requirements

• IELTS: 6.5 (min 5.5 in all areas)

• Pearson: 58 (51 in all subscores)

• BrunELT: 65% (min 55% in all areas)

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

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 Brunel University.

Theatre and Creative Writing at Brunel University London offers a dynamic and interdisciplinary approach to studying performance arts and literary creativity. The programme is designed to develop students' practical skills, critical thinking, and understanding of theatrical and literary traditions, preparing graduates for careers in theatre, writing, production, and other related fields. Students engage in a variety of modules that cover areas such as acting techniques, dramaturgy, scriptwriting, stage design, and performance analysis, alongside creative writing workshops focusing on fiction, poetry, and non-fiction genres. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical understanding and hands-on experience, allowing students to develop their individual artistic voices while also gaining insight into industry practices. Brunel’s facilities include dedicated theatre spaces, writing labs, and production workshops, providing students with the resources necessary to produce original work. The programme encourages collaboration across disciplines, fostering a vibrant artistic community where students can experiment with new forms and media. Additionally, the programme often includes opportunities for performance, publication, exhibitions, and external performances, giving students a platform to showcase their talents. Staff members are experienced practitioners and scholars, dedicated to mentoring students and supporting their professional development. The course aims to equip students not only with creative skills but also with critical and contextual knowledge that enables them to understand the cultural and social dimensions of theatre and writing. Brunel's connections with theatres, publishing houses, and artistic organizations offer students valuable networking opportunities and potential career pathways. The programme's flexible structure permits specializations in areas such as performance, scriptwriting, or literary editing, ensuring students can tailor their education to their interests and career goals. Overall, Theatre and Creative Writing at Brunel provides a comprehensive, engaging, and innovative environment for aspiring theatre practitioners and writers to develop their talents and prepare for their future careers in the arts.