BA (Hons) Musical Theatre

The BA (Hons) Musical Theatre program at the University of Surrey is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in musical theatre performance, production, and scholarship. This undergraduate degree integrates practical training in acting, singing, and dancing with theoretical studies in musical theatre history, repertoire, and critical analysis. Students have the opportunity to develop their performance skills, creative abilities, and industry knowledge through a diverse range of courses and performance opportunities, preparing them for careers in professional musical theatre, entertainment, and related fields.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the BA (Hons) Musical Theatre program covers a broad range of subjects that equip students with the skills and knowledge needed for success in the competitive world of musical theatre. Core modules focus on acting techniques, vocal training, dance styles, stagecraft, and musical performance, providing students with a strong foundation in the three main disciplines of musical theatre. Elective modules allow students to explore specialized topics such as musical theatre history, repertoire analysis, choreography, directing, or musical theatre education. Practical components, including rehearsals, workshops, masterclasses, and performance projects, provide students with hands-on experience and performance opportunities in various styles and genres of musical theatre.

Research Focus: The BA (Hons) Musical Theatre program emphasizes scholarly inquiry and critical analysis in the study of musical theatre. Faculty members are actively engaged in research projects that explore diverse aspects of musical theatre, including historical trends, cultural contexts, performance practices, and artistic innovations. Students have the opportunity to engage with current debates and research findings in musical theatre studies, conduct independent research projects, and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field through critical reflection and creative exploration.

Industry Engagement: The University of Surrey maintains strong connections with the musical theatre industry, providing students with opportunities for industry engagement and professional development. Guest lectures, masterclasses, and workshops feature industry professionals, performers, directors, choreographers, musical directors, and casting agents who share their expertise and insights with students. Work placements, internships, and collaborations with professional theatre companies, production studios, casting agencies, and performing arts organizations provide students with real-world experience, networking opportunities, and exposure to the professional musical theatre industry.

Global Perspective: As a globally-oriented institution, the University of Surrey promotes a global perspective in the BA (Hons) Musical Theatre program, recognizing the international nature of musical theatre as a cultural form and a global industry. Students study musical theatre traditions, styles, and practices from different countries and cultural contexts, gaining an appreciation for the diversity of musical theatre expression worldwide. Study abroad opportunities, international collaborations, and cross-cultural experiences enable students to explore diverse theatrical traditions, engage with global theatre communities, and develop a broader understanding of the universal appeal and cultural significance of musical theatre as an art form.

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 75 to 85% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.

English language proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
• TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 88, with at least 11 in Listening, 12 in Reading, 17 in Speaking, and 23 in Writing.
• PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 58 with no individual score below 42.
• DET Requirement: A DET score of 110 is required.
• Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

The University of Surrey offers a range of scholarships and financial aid options to support students in their academic journey. These scholarships are designed to recognize excellence, provide access to education, and support students in achieving their educational goals.  

Surrey Merit Scholarships: The Surrey Merit Scholarships are awarded to high-achieving undergraduate students who demonstrate outstanding academic performance. These scholarships provide financial support and recognition for students who have achieved excellent grades in their previous studies. The scholarships are available for both UK and international students.

Surrey Business School Scholarships: The Surrey Business School offers a range of scholarships for undergraduate and postgraduate students studying business-related disciplines. These scholarships aim to attract and reward talented students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and commitment to their field of study.

Surrey Sports Scholarships: The Surrey Sports Scholarships are available to students who excel in sports and are both their academic and athletic pursuits. These scholarships provide financial support, access to training facilities, coaching, and other benefits to help athletes balance their studies and sports commitments.

Undergraduate Bursaries: The University of Surrey also offers a range of undergraduate bursaries based on financial need. These bursaries aim to ensure that students from diverse backgrounds have equal access to higher education and can fully participate in university life.

Graduates of the BA (Hons) Musical Theatre program from the University of Surrey are equipped with a versatile skill set and industry experience that prepares them for a variety of career paths in the performing arts and entertainment industry.

Musical Theatre Performer: Many graduates pursue careers as professional musical theatre performers, showcasing their talents on stage in productions ranging from West End and Broadway shows to touring productions, regional theatre, cruise ships, theme parks, and cabaret venues.

Actor/Actress: Some graduates transition into careers as actors or actresses, performing in plays, films, television shows, commercials, voice-over work, or other performance mediums outside of the musical theatre genre.

Singer/Vocalist: Others pursue careers as singers or vocalists, performing in concerts, recitals, recording studios, bands, choirs, orchestras, or as solo artists in various musical styles and genres.

Dancer/Choreographer: Some graduates specialize in dance and choreography, working as dancers, choreographers, dance captains, or movement coaches for musical theatre productions, dance companies, music videos, commercials, or corporate events.

Musical Director/Conductor: Others pursue careers as musical directors or conductors, leading rehearsals, orchestrating performances, and conducting pit orchestras for musical theatre productions, opera companies, choirs, or symphony orchestras.

Director/Producer: Some graduates transition into careers as directors or producers, overseeing theatrical productions, film projects, television shows, or commercial events, and managing artistic, logistical, and financial aspects of production.

Teacher/Instructor: Others become teachers or instructors, sharing their knowledge and skills with aspiring performers, educators, or community groups through teaching, coaching, workshops, masterclasses, or educational outreach programs.

Arts Administrator/Manager: Some graduates work in arts administration or management roles, overseeing the operations of theatres, performing arts organizations, casting agencies, talent agencies, or production companies, and coordinating artistic, marketing, and administrative activities.

Entertainment Industry Professional: Others pursue careers in the entertainment industry as agents, talent scouts, casting directors, production assistants, stage managers, event planners, or public relations specialists, supporting the creation, promotion, and execution of entertainment projects and live events.

Entrepreneur/Independent Artist: Some graduates choose to pursue entrepreneurial ventures or freelance careers as independent artists, creating their own productions, shows, cabarets, workshops, or performing arts companies, and self-producing or crowdfunding their creative projects.