Courses: Theatre Studies
'Drama students have the key skills that many employers are looking for'
Published: 27 February 2007
What are the entry requirements for this course?
The entry requirements vary but you will usually need some evidence of studying drama or theatre studies at sixth form level. You may, instead, have a BTEC or GNVQ in performing arts. Some universities may insist on you having English A-level and many students have A-levels in related subjects, such as languages, film and media, or art.
Who applies?
There is no drama or theatre studies type. It is true that some students have developed a confidence through performance and collaborating with others and can seem outgoing and extrovert, but drama and theatre studies is not just for performers. You may be interested in directing, writing or reading plays. Drama and theatre studies students have the key skills that many employers are looking for no matter what kind of job you want after you graduate. They have well-developed communication skills in both written and spoken English, they are team players and are used to decision-making and problem-solving.
If you take a degree in drama or theatre studies you can expect to study plays and playwrights from different periods of history, from Britain and around the world. You will be interested in theories about theatre and performance and in some departments you may be able to study technical aspects of theatre production, play writing or directing. In most departments you will be expected to create performance pieces in response to plays and performances you have studied.
What does the course involve?
There are many universities, colleges of higher education and drama schools where you can study drama and theatre studies, so you need to be sure that the course and institution you apply to is the right one for you. The titles "drama", "theatre studies" and "performing arts" can mean very different things at different institutions, so it is vital that you read prospectuses very carefully and visit as many universities and colleges as you can. If you want professional actor or technical theatre training then you probably need to look at drama schools or performing arts departments. If you have enjoyed drama or theatre studies at A-level, or in some other post-16 qualification, and would like to continue your studies, then you may want to take these subjects at a university or college of higher education. Studying for a degree in drama or theatre studies does not mean that you can't become a professional actor, but it will keep other career options open to you.
Each university or college will have a different balance between practical and written work. Usually you can expect to attend lectures, seminars and workshops. Class contact time will vary but you can expect to take approximately three modules each semester, which will be around 12 hours a week. The rest of your time will be taken up with independent study and, maybe, rehearsals.
How long does it last?
Courses generally last three years.
How will I be assessed?
You can expect to be assessed for individual written work and collaborative work. Many universities also offer opportunities to gain work experience.
Are there opportunities available for further study?
There are many opportunities for further study, including a large range of Masters degrees in specific areas of drama or theatre studies. Many universities offer research degrees in drama and theatre studies. In some universities you may take advanced research degrees based on your own performance practice.
What career options are there when the course is completed?
Some drama and theatre studies students go on to perform or direct, many others go into the broad range of jobs available to all graduates. Some go into teaching or working for arts organisations and some go on to further study.
Catharine McLean-Hopkins, subject leader in drama and theatre studies at the University of Central Lancashire, www.uclan.ac.uk
Current student: Lucy-Ann Duff, 20, is in the second year of a history and theatre studies course at the University of Central Lancashire
"I studied American history, sociology, law and psychology at A-level. I've always been closely involved with theatre and I felt I was learning much of the practical side of it - staging, acting and directing - but wanted to learn more about its history.
Workshops consist of improvisations, group work, lectures, singular work and student-led workshops. We are assessed by practical projects within groups, which consist of short performances, research and presentation. Modules are also assessed through essays.
I want to go on and do a PGCE and then I would like to travel and teach drama in countries culturally different to our own; to allow those children to gain a better insight into our drama and how we teach it."
Recent graduate: Rebecca James, 22, is a drama and performing arts lecturer at Stratford-upon-Avon College
"I studied English and theatre studies at UCLan and graduated in 2005. After that I joined the University of Warwick and completed my PGCE, specialising in drama and English for secondary teaching.
Teaching is a challenging and demanding job, but a lucky one. Everyday I work with creative and enthusiastic young people, each day is different and I look forward to challenges ahead. One day I would like to lead the drama department, but some time in the future I would also like to go on and do a Masters degree in theatre direction, and pursue a future in play writing. As far as teaching goes, I think that getting more experience in the industry will help me to become a better teacher in the future."
WEB WATCH
The Amateur Theatre Network
Find amateur dramatic groups in your area www.amdram.co.uk
Theatres online
Search for local theatre productions www.theatresonline.com
The Internet Theatre Bookshop
Buy musical and play scripts www.stageplays.com
