MSc Accounting
The MSc Accounting at the University of Manchester, United Kingdom, is a specialized po...
MA Playwriting
Manchester, England
INTAKE: Jan & Sept
Program Overview
The MA Playwriting program at the University of Manchester is a highly specialized course designed for aspiring playwrights looking to develop their craft and launch their careers in the theatre industry. This program offers an intensive, practical approach to playwriting, combining creative writing with critical analysis and an in-depth exploration of contemporary theatre practices. Students are encouraged to develop their own unique voice as playwrights while learning about the theoretical underpinnings of drama, performance, and storytelling. Throughout the program, students benefit from expert teaching, industry connections, and the opportunity to see their work performed in professional settings.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the MA Playwriting program is designed to offer both creative and academic challenges. It includes a combination of core modules, workshops, and individual projects. Key modules typically include playwriting techniques, dramatic theory, character development, and script editing. Students also explore the history of theatre and the role of the playwright within the broader cultural and political contexts. The program focuses on both short-form and full-length plays, enabling students to experiment with different forms of writing. There is also a significant emphasis on practical, hands-on learning, with opportunities for students to have their works read or performed as part of public showcases or collaborations with theatre companies.
Research Focus: The MA Playwriting program places a strong emphasis on research in the field of contemporary theatre and performance studies. Students are encouraged to engage with current trends in drama, particularly in terms of new writing, experimental theatre, and digital storytelling. The research component of the program encourages students to analyze and reflect on the work of established playwrights, as well as to consider the social, political, and cultural implications of their own writing. Students may also be involved in research-led practice, where they explore themes and issues that resonate within contemporary society. This research informs the development of their own original scripts, allowing for a deep and thoughtful engagement with the art of playwriting.
Industry Engagement: The MA Playwriting program at the University of Manchester has strong links with the theatre industry, offering students valuable opportunities to engage with professional playwrights, theatre companies, and producers. Industry engagement is a key component of the program, with students often taking part in workshops, masterclasses, and public readings of their work. Additionally, the program frequently partners with theatres and festivals, allowing students to experience real-world applications of their writing. These connections provide students with a better understanding of the professional theatre landscape, as well as opportunities to network and establish relationships with industry professionals. Graduates of the program benefit from the extensive network of alumni and industry contacts that the university offers.
Global Perspective: The MA Playwriting program offers a global perspective on playwriting, drawing on a wide range of international theatre traditions, influences, and perspectives. The program encourages students to consider global themes in their work, such as identity, migration, and social justice. It also explores theatre as a medium for cultural exchange and dialogue. The diverse nature of the student body and the faculty provides students with a broad understanding of how playwriting is approached in different parts of the world. The global perspective ensures that students not only develop their own individual voice but also understand the international dimensions of contemporary drama.
Location
Manchester, England
Score
IELTS 7
Tuition Fee
£ 28500
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Application fee: £60
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 60% or equivalent.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 7.0 with no individual component below 6.5.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 100.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 76.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Manchester offers a range of scholarships to support international students in funding their education and making their academic journey more accessible. These scholarships are designed to reward academic excellence, support students from diverse backgrounds, and help ease the financial challenges of studying abroad.
Global Futures Scholarship: The Global Futures Scholarship is a prestigious award for international students who demonstrate academic excellence and potential. This scholarship offers a £5,000 contribution towards tuition fees, providing financial assistance for undergraduate and postgraduate students. This scholarship is open to students from specific countries and disciplines, so it is essential to check eligibility criteria and deadlines.
Manchester Master’s Bursary: The Manchester Master’s Bursary is a financial aid program aimed at helping postgraduate students who come from lower-income backgrounds. This bursary offers support for UK, EU, and international students who wish to pursue a master’s degree at the university. The bursary can cover a significant portion of tuition fees and is awarded based on financial need.
Subject-Specific Scholarships: Many departments at the University of Manchester offer subject-specific scholarships for students enrolling in their programs. For example, students applying for programs in engineering, business, life sciences, and the arts may be eligible for additional funding based on academic performance and their future potential. These scholarships are often offered to high-achieving students who demonstrate exceptional skills and dedication to their field of study.
Chevening Scholarships: The Chevening Scholarship is a fully-funded award provided by the UK government, open to outstanding international students from over 160 countries. The scholarship covers tuition fees, living costs, travel expenses, and other related costs. The University of Manchester is a proud participant in this global program and welcomes applications from students wishing to pursue a master's degree in a variety of disciplines.
Commonwealth Scholarships: The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission offers fully funded scholarships for international students from Commonwealth countries. These scholarships support students pursuing postgraduate studies in fields such as engineering, health sciences, and education. They cover the full cost of tuition fees, travel, and living expenses during the duration of the program.
Regional Scholarships: The university also offers regional scholarships for students from specific countries or regions, including Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas. These scholarships are designed to make studying at the University of Manchester more accessible to students from these regions and offer both partial and full financial support depending on the scholarship type.
Graduates of the MA Playwriting program at the University of Manchester are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to pursue a variety of exciting careers in the theatre industry and beyond. The program’s combination of creative writing, critical thinking, and practical industry engagement ensures that students are well-prepared for a wide range of career options.
Playwright: The most direct career option for MA Playwriting graduates is working as a professional playwright. Graduates can write original plays, short films, or television scripts. They can submit their works to theatre companies, drama festivals, and literary agents, and work with producers to bring their scripts to the stage. Some graduates may also choose to write for digital platforms, exploring new mediums for storytelling.
Screenwriter: While the program is focused on playwriting, many graduates transition into screenwriting. The skills learned in writing for theatre, such as character development, dialogue, and structure, are highly transferable to writing for film and television. Graduates can pursue screenwriting opportunities for film studios, TV networks, or streaming services, contributing to the growing demand for original content.
Dramaturg: A dramaturg works closely with playwrights and directors to develop and refine plays. Graduates can work in dramaturgy, offering feedback on scripts, assisting in the development of new works, and supporting the creative process in theatre productions. This role requires a deep understanding of dramatic structure, theatre history, and contemporary issues in performance.
Theatre Director: While primarily a writer-focused program, some graduates may also pursue careers as theatre directors. With a strong understanding of narrative and character, graduates can bring their own scripts to the stage or work with other playwrights to direct and oversee theatre productions. The program’s industry engagement opportunities and networking with theatre professionals also provide valuable experience for future directors.
Theatre Producer: Theatre producers manage the logistics, budget, and production schedules for plays. Graduates of the MA Playwriting program can work in producing, overseeing the full production process from script development to stage performance. Producers work with writers, directors, actors, and other industry professionals to ensure that a production is brought to life successfully.
Arts Administrator: Graduates with a passion for organizational roles may pursue careers in arts administration. This involves managing the operations of theatre companies, arts organizations, or cultural festivals. Responsibilities may include organizing events, managing budgets, handling marketing and outreach, and liaising with artists, sponsors, and the public.
Creative Writing Teacher/Academic: For those interested in academia, graduates can teach creative writing, drama, or playwriting at the secondary or higher education level. Some graduates may also pursue a PhD in playwriting or theatre studies, contributing to academic research in the field while also educating the next generation of playwrights.
Literary Agent/Manager: Literary agents represent writers and playwrights, helping them secure publishing or performance contracts. Graduates of the MA Playwriting program can work as literary agents or managers, using their deep understanding of scriptwriting and the theatre industry to help other writers navigate their careers and secure opportunities in the industry.
Script Editor: A script editor reviews and revises scripts, providing feedback on structure, pacing, and character development. Graduates with a keen eye for detail and narrative can pursue careers as script editors, working with playwrights, screenwriters, and other writers to refine and improve their scripts before submission or production.
Community Theatre Practitioner: Graduates with a strong interest in social issues and community engagement may pursue careers in community theatre. These practitioners create and produce performances that address local issues, involve the community, and promote social change. They work with various community groups, schools, and social organizations to create impactful theatre experiences.
Freelance Writer/Author: Some MA Playwriting graduates choose to pursue freelance writing careers. As freelancers, they write for a range of platforms, including theatre, film, online media, and literary publications. This flexible career path allows them to write across different genres, including plays, novels, articles, and short stories.
International Career Opportunities: Given the global nature of theatre, many MA Playwriting graduates find work in the international theatre scene. They may collaborate with theatre companies, festivals, or playwrights from around the world, contributing to international co-productions or global theatre festivals. A global perspective on contemporary theatre and cultural issues ensures that graduates are well-prepared to work in international contexts.
