MA English Literature
The MA in English Literature at the University of Reading offers a comprehensive and im...
BA Creative Writing and Theatre
Reading
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
This program is designed to cultivate students' creative talents in writing while providing hands-on experience in theatre production and performance. By exploring various literary forms and theatrical practices, students gain a holistic perspective on how written narratives can be transformed into compelling performances. The curriculum emphasizes the development of original works and the adaptation of existing texts for the stage, encouraging a symbiotic relationship between writing and performance.
Curriculum: The curriculum offers a diverse range of modules that cover both creative writing and theatre studies. Students engage in workshops focusing on different writing genres, including poetry, fiction, and playwriting, allowing them to experiment with various styles and forms. In theatre studies, the program delves into contemporary performance methods, acting techniques, directing, and the historical context of theatrical traditions. This combination ensures that students are well-versed in both the theoretical and practical aspects of their crafts.
Research Focus: The program encourages an independent approach to formulating problems and arguments, utilizing close reading and analytical skills. Students engage with a variety of literary and dramatic texts from different periods, becoming familiar with diverse critical perspectives and analytical methods within and between the disciplines.
Industry Engagement: The University of Reading's proximity to Shinfield Studios, known for hosting productions like Netflix's 'Bridgerton' and Disney's 'Star Wars: The Acolyte,' offers students unique industry engagement opportunities. Partnerships with organizations such as Albert Education, Arri Certified Film School, FEST, Rabble Theatre, Reading Rep Theatre, Climate Change Theatre Action, and South St Theatre provide hands-on experiences, including film production bootcamps, workshops, technical training on Arri Alexa cameras, and real-life shoot simulations.
Global Perspective: The program offers opportunities for students to engage with global theatrical traditions and contemporary practices. This exposure enhances their understanding of theatre's role in various cultural contexts, preparing them to contribute to the global creative community. Additionally, students may have the chance to participate in international study programs or collaborations, further broadening their perspectives and enriching their educational experience.
Location
Reading
Score
IELTS 7
Tuition Fee
£ 25250
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 70% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 7.0 with no individual component below 6.0.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 100.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 76.
- DET Academic: A minimum overall score of 135.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Reading offers a variety of scholarships for international students to support academic excellence and financial needs.
Vice-Chancellor Global Scholarship Award: Merit-based scholarship for high-achieving international students. Covers partial tuition fees for undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
Subject-Specific Scholarships: Offered by individual departments based on academic excellence and course selection. Examples include scholarships in Business, Law, Agriculture, and Science.
Chevening Scholarships: A UK government-funded scholarship for outstanding students from eligible countries. Covers tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.
Country-Specific Scholarships: Scholarships tailored for students from specific countries, including India, China, and the USA. Criteria vary based on nationality and academic performance.
Graduates of the BA Creative Writing and Theatre program at the University of Reading are well-prepared for careers in various sectors of the creative industries. With a solid foundation in both creative writing and theatre, alumni can explore diverse career avenues, utilizing their versatile skills in multiple disciplines.
Playwriting and Scriptwriting: One of the primary career options for graduates is writing for the stage or screen. With the skills gained in creative writing workshops and theatrical studies, graduates can become professional playwriters, screenwriters, or television writers. This includes working on original plays, film scripts, and television series, as well as adapting existing literary works for the stage.
Theatre Production and Management: For those interested in the behind-the-scenes aspects of theatre, this program provides strong preparation for careers in theatre production and management. Graduates can work in roles such as stage management, production coordination, lighting design, set design, and sound design. With practical theatre experience, they are equipped to contribute to all stages of the production process, from pre-production planning to live performances.
Acting and Performance: Graduates with a passion for performing can pursue careers in acting and performance. The program's focus on theatre techniques, performance styles, and dramatic analysis helps students develop the skills needed for a professional career on stage or in film. Many graduates find work with theatre companies, in independent productions, or in television and film projects.
Directing and Producing: The BA Creative Writing and Theatre program also offers graduates the chance to explore the role of a director or producer in both theatre and film. These professionals are responsible for interpreting scripts, guiding performances, managing production teams, and ensuring that creative works are realized. Graduates can work in a wide range of theatre venues, festivals, and media productions.
Creative Writing: The program offers a strong foundation for those looking to pursue careers as authors, novelists, poets, or short story writers. With extensive practice in writing and a portfolio of creative works developed throughout the program, graduates can publish their work or engage in freelance writing. They may also work as literary editors, script consultants, or contribute to online platforms and journals.
Theatre Criticism and Journalism: Graduates can become professional theatre critics, writers, or journalists. With the deep understanding of theatre history, performance analysis, and creative writing, alumni can write for newspapers, magazines, or online publications, reviewing performances, films, and other creative works. Theatre critics play a vital role in shaping the public's perception of theatre and film productions.
Education and Teaching: Many graduates go on to teach creative writing, theatre arts, and drama at various levels. This may involve working in schools, colleges, or universities, providing instruction on acting, writing techniques, performance theory, and theatre history. Graduates interested in education may also pursue further qualifications to become specialized teachers in English, drama, or creative writing.
Event Management: Graduates can work in organizing and managing arts events, including theatre festivals, literary festivals, or cultural performances. Their creative writing and theatre expertise, combined with project management skills, make them well-suited for coordinating events that bring together artists, performers, and audiences. They may work in both the public and private sectors, organizing large-scale or smaller, community-based events.
Publishing: With their background in creative writing, graduates can explore careers in the publishing industry, working as editors, literary agents, or publishers. Whether in traditional publishing houses or digital platforms, they can help bring creative writing works to market, offering their expertise in editing, content development, and manuscript evaluation.
Freelance Careers and Entrepreneurship: Some graduates choose to work as freelancers, taking on a range of roles in writing, theatre production, acting, and teaching. They may work independently as writers, directors, or actors, or start their own theatre companies, publishing houses, or creative agencies. Entrepreneurship is a natural fit for those with an innovative mindset and a passion for creative expression.
Social and Community Arts: The skills developed in both creative writing and theatre also allow graduates to contribute to social projects or community-based arts initiatives. They can work with schools, local organizations, and charities to deliver arts programs that promote literacy, creativity, and community engagement. This might include working as drama therapists, community arts leaders, or project managers for creative social enterprises.
