BA Theatre and Performance Studies

This undergraduate degree nurtures new talent by continually engaging students in watching and producing theatre, both within the classroom and beyond. The presence of the Warwick Arts Centre at the heart of the campus provides students with access to a vibrant cultural hub, enhancing their learning experience. ​

Curriculum: The foundational first year consists of four core modules that balance theory and practice. In the second and third years, students have the opportunity to select from a wide range of optional modules designed by a diverse team of specialist staff, allowing them to curate a distinctive degree tailored to their interests. ​

Research Focus: The department prides itself on a national and international reputation for research and teaching excellence. Students are taught by world-leading scholars, industry professionals, and artists, engaging with cutting-edge research in areas such as applied theatre, theatre history, Shakespeare in performance, and contemporary performance practices.

Industry Engagement: The program offers great industry connections and career prospects, with teaching that grows out of the cutting-edge research of the staff. Areas of expertise include applied and community theatres, theatre for social change, and theatre production in digital environments and film.

Global Perspective: The program encourages students to explore the world through the lens of theatre and performance, offering opportunities to engage with international perspectives and practices. This global outlook prepares graduates for diverse careers within the arts sector and beyond. ​

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

1. Academic Qualifications: Prospective undergraduate students applying to the University of Warwick are typically expected to meet specific academic qualifications, which may vary depending on the chosen program of study. Applicants should have completed secondary education equivalent to A-levels or International Baccalaureate (IB) with strong academic performance. The typical academic requirement is to achieve an overall average of at least 85% in relevant subjects, such as mathematics, sciences, humanities, or languages. 

2. English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Minimum overall score of 6.5, including a minimum of 6.0 in each component (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking).

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Minimum score of 92 on the internet-based test (iBT) or iBT Special Home Edition, with minimum sub-scores of 21 in Listening, 21 in Writing, 22 in Reading, and 23 in Speaking.

• PTE (Pearson Test of English): Minimum overall score of 69, with no sub-score less than 59.

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 Warwick offers a range of scholarships and financial aid opportunities to support international students pursuing their academic aspirations at one of the UK's leading universities. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence, promote diversity, and alleviate financial barriers to higher education. 

Warwick Undergraduate Global Excellence Scholarship: This prestigious scholarship is awarded to exceptional international students applying for undergraduate programs at Warwick. The scholarship provides partial tuition fee waivers based on academic merit. Eligibility criteria and application details are available on the university's official website.

Chancellor's International Scholarship: The Chancellor's International Scholarship is offered to outstanding international PhD applicants across all disciplines. This scholarship covers the full payment of overseas tuition fees and provides a generous stipend to support living expenses. Recipients of this scholarship are selected based on academic excellence and research potential.

Warwick Marshall Scholarship: The Warwick Marshall Scholarship is open to students from select developing countries who wish to pursue a Master's degree at Warwick. This scholarship covers full tuition fees, accommodation, and living expenses for the duration of the Master's program. Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to making a positive impact in their home countries.

Commonwealth Shared Scholarship: Warwick participates in the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship scheme, which enables students from eligible Commonwealth countries to pursue a Master's degree in selected subjects at the university. This scholarship covers tuition fees, airfare, living expenses, and other allowances. Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria outlined by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission.

Other Departmental Scholarships: Various academic departments and faculties at Warwick offer specific scholarships and funding opportunities for international students based on academic merit, research potential, and other criteria. These scholarships may vary by program and are typically advertised on departmental websites.

External Funding Sources: In addition to university-specific scholarships, international students are encouraged to explore external funding sources, including government scholarships, corporate sponsorships, and international organizations offering financial support for higher education. The university's international office provides guidance and resources to help students identify and apply for external funding opportunities.

It is important to note that scholarship availability, criteria, and application deadlines may change from year to year.

A BA in Theatre and Performance Studies from the University of Warwick equips graduates with a diverse set of skills and knowledge that prepare them for a wide range of rewarding career opportunities in the arts, entertainment, education, and beyond. This interdisciplinary program combines theoretical study with practical experience, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and communication skills essential for success in the field of theatre and performance.

Theatre and Performance: Graduates may pursue careers as actors, directors, producers, or stage managers in theatre companies, performance ensembles, or independent productions. They may work in areas such as classical theatre, contemporary drama, experimental performance, or devised theatre.

Arts Administration and Management: Graduates can work in arts organizations, managing theatrical productions, coordinating events, and overseeing marketing and promotion. They may specialize in theatre management, festival administration, or cultural programming.

Education and Outreach: Graduates may work in educational settings, teaching drama and performance skills to students of all ages. They may also lead workshops, residencies, or outreach programs in schools, community centers, or youth organizations.

Arts Advocacy and Policy: Graduates can work for advocacy organizations, promoting the importance of theatre and the arts in society. They may advocate for funding, policy initiatives, or community engagement in the arts.

Event Production and Entertainment: Graduates may pursue careers in event production, coordinating live performances, festivals, or cultural events. They may work for event management companies, arts venues, or entertainment organizations.

Media and Broadcasting: Graduates with a BA in Theatre and Performance Studies may work in media and broadcasting, contributing to television, film, or radio productions as actors, consultants, or researchers.

Cultural Heritage and Museums: Graduates can work in cultural institutions, museums, or heritage sites, developing interpretive programs, exhibitions, or live performances that engage with theatrical history and cultural heritage.

Arts Journalism and Criticism: Graduates may pursue careers in arts journalism, writing reviews, articles, or critiques about theatre and performance. They may work for newspapers, magazines, online publications, or arts blogs.

Community Arts and Social Engagement: Graduates can work in community arts organizations, using theatre and performance as tools for social change and community empowerment. They may develop participatory projects, facilitate storytelling workshops, or lead community-based theatre productions.

Further Study and Research: Some graduates may pursue further studies in theatre studies, performance studies, or related fields at the graduate level, leading to careers in academia, research, or arts administration.