MA by Research in Theatre and Performance Studies

Postgraduate Entry requirements

1. Academic Qualifications: Postgraduate applicants are expected to hold a relevant undergraduate degree from a recognized institution, with a minimum academic achievement of 60% to 80%.  

2. English Language Proficiency:  

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Minimum overall score of 7.0, with minimum component scores of two at 6.0/6.5 and the remaining components at 7.0 or above.

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Minimum score of 100 on the internet-based test (iBT), with minimum sub-scores of Reading 22, Listening 21, Speaking 23, and Writing 21.

• PTE (Pearson Test of English): Minimum overall score of 70, including 59 or above in all components.

Students must provide:

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

Work experience: Some postgraduate courses may require relevant work experience in the field.

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. 

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.

Graduates of the MA by Research in Theatre and Performance Studies program at the University of Warwick possess a diverse skill set and in-depth knowledge of theatre and performance theory, history, and practice. With their advanced research skills and critical understanding of cultural phenomena, graduates are well-equipped to pursue various career paths in academia, the arts, cultural industries, and beyond. 

Academic Researcher: Many graduates choose to pursue further academic study by enrolling in doctoral programs (Ph.D.) in theatre and performance studies or related fields. With their research experience and scholarly expertise, they can pursue careers as university lecturers, researchers, or professors, conducting original research, teaching courses, and contributing to academic publications and conferences.

Independent Scholar: Some graduates may opt for a career as independent scholars or freelance researchers, pursuing their research interests outside of traditional academic institutions. They may undertake research projects, publish articles or books, and deliver lectures or presentations at conferences, cultural events, and public forums, engaging with broader audiences interested in theatre and performance studies.

Arts Administrator: Graduates with a strong understanding of theatre and performance practices may pursue careers in arts administration, working for theatre companies, arts organizations, cultural institutions, or funding bodies. They may oversee program development, fundraising, marketing, audience engagement, and strategic planning, contributing to the management and sustainability of arts and cultural initiatives.

Cultural Policy Analyst: Some graduates may work in the field of cultural policy analysis, conducting research on theatre funding, cultural diversity, audience development, and arts advocacy. They may work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or research institutes, providing evidence-based recommendations to policymakers and stakeholders on issues related to arts funding, cultural heritage, and creative industries.

Community Engagement Officer: Graduates may pursue roles as community engagement officers or outreach coordinators for theatre companies, arts centers, or community organizations. They develop and implement outreach programs, educational workshops, and participatory theatre projects that engage diverse communities and promote social inclusion, cultural diversity, and creative expression.

Arts Educator: With their expertise in theatre and performance studies, graduates may work as educators or teaching artists in schools, colleges, universities, or community settings. They design and deliver curriculum-based theatre programs, workshops, and residencies that enhance students' understanding of theatre history, performance techniques, and critical thinking skills, fostering creativity and cultural literacy.

Cultural Events Manager: Graduates may pursue careers as cultural events managers or producers, organizing and managing theatre productions, festivals, and cultural events. They oversee event logistics, budgeting, marketing, and programming, collaborating with artists, venues, sponsors, and stakeholders to ensure the success and sustainability of cultural events that celebrate theatre and performance arts.

Arts Journalist or Critic: Some graduates may work as arts journalists, critics, or reviewers for newspapers, magazines, online publications, or broadcasting networks. They write reviews, features, interviews, and opinion pieces on theatre performances, cultural events, and emerging trends in the arts, contributing to public discourse and critical dialogue on theatre and performance practices.

Heritage Interpreter: Graduates may pursue careers in heritage interpretation, working for museums, historic sites, or cultural heritage organizations. They develop and deliver guided tours, exhibitions, and educational programs that explore the history, significance, and cultural contexts of theatrical landmarks, archival collections, and performing arts traditions.

Arts Entrepreneur: Some graduates may choose to start their own theatre companies, production companies, or arts-related businesses, creating and producing original theatre productions, performance events, or cultural initiatives. They may also explore opportunities in arts consultancy, event management, arts marketing, or arts-based entrepreneurship, leveraging their creativity and entrepreneurial skills to make a positive impact in the arts sector.