MA Applied Theatre and Education

Postgraduate Entry Requirements

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 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 6.0.
• PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 71.
• Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.

The University of Derby offers various scholarships and funding opportunities to support international students financially. These scholarships are designed to ease the financial burden of studying abroad and make higher education more accessible for students from diverse backgrounds.

Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship: The University of Derby offers the prestigious Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship for international students. This scholarship provides up to £2,000 for students enrolling in undergraduate or postgraduate programs. It is awarded based on academic merit and achievements, recognizing outstanding students who demonstrate potential in their field of study.

International Student Scholarship: The International Student Scholarship is designed to assist new international students with their tuition fees. This scholarship offers up to £2,000 for students from specific countries or regions and is awarded to students who meet the academic requirements and demonstrate contributing to the international community at the University of Derby.

International Postgraduate Scholarship: For international students applying to postgraduate programs, the University of Derby offers the International Postgraduate Scholarship. This scholarship provides £2,000 towards the tuition fees for eligible students pursuing a master’s degree or other postgraduate qualifications. The award is based on academic performance and intended to support students from across the globe in furthering their education.

Country-Specific Scholarships: In addition to general scholarships, the University of Derby offers country-specific scholarships for students from particular regions. These scholarships aim to support students from countries such as India, China, Nigeria, and many more. The value of these scholarships varies, but they often range from £1,000 to £3,000, depending on the country and the student's academic background.

Alumni Loyalty Discount: The University of Derby offers a special alumni discount for students who have previously studied at the university. International students who have completed a degree or program at Derby and return for further study are eligible for this discount, which helps to reduce the overall cost of their education.

Early Bird Discount: International students who apply early may be eligible for the Early Bird Discount, which provides a reduction in tuition fees for students who accept an offer of admission before a specified deadline. This discount is intended to encourage timely applications and assist students with their planning.

External Scholarships: In addition to internal scholarships, international students are encouraged to explore external scholarship opportunities. The University of Derby provides guidance and resources to help students identify and apply for scholarships offered by government bodies, organizations, and private foundations in their home countries or internationally.

Graduates of the MA in Applied Theatre and Education from the University of Derby are equipped with a range of transferable skills that are highly valued across various industries. The focus on practical, hands-on learning, combined with an in-depth theoretical framework, prepares students for diverse career paths. 

Creative Learning Officers Creative learning officers work within arts and cultural organizations to develop and deliver educational programs that engage with diverse communities. These professionals use theatre and performance to inspire learning and personal development, often working in schools, museums, and community centers.

Education Directors Education directors are responsible for overseeing and developing educational programs within theatrical or community settings. They work closely with educators, theatre professionals, and community leaders to create programs that make a meaningful impact on participants' lives. This role is often seen in arts organizations and cultural institutions.

Facilitators in Theatre and Education Facilitators are professionals who lead and support group activities, workshops, and performances that use theatre as a tool for education and social engagement. They often work in schools, community centers, and various social settings, helping to unlock creativity and build social skills.

Theatre Practitioners for Health and Wellbeing In recent years, there has been growing recognition of the therapeutic benefits of theatre in health and wellbeing contexts. Graduates can work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, or other healthcare settings, using applied theatre techniques to support mental health and recovery.

Freelance Practitioners Many graduates of the MA Applied Theatre and Education program pursue freelance careers, offering consultancy, workshops, and performance-based services to a wide range of clients. Freelance practitioners often collaborate with schools, community groups, social organizations, and arts venues to provide creative learning opportunities.

Community Theatre Directors As community theatre continues to grow in importance, graduates may take on roles as directors and leaders in community-based theatre companies. These professionals help bring together individuals from diverse backgrounds, creating performances that resonate with local audiences and foster a sense of community identity.

Policy and Research Roles in Education Graduates can also enter roles focused on research, evaluation, and policy development in the field of education. With a strong foundation in both applied theatre and education, graduates can work with government bodies, non-profit organizations, and educational institutions to influence policy and improve practices in arts education.

Program Coordinators in Non-Profit Organizations Non-profit organizations that focus on education, youth engagement, and social justice often seek individuals with a background in applied theatre and education. Program coordinators develop, implement, and manage projects that use theatre as a tool for social change.

Teachers and Educators Some graduates choose to become educators within formal or informal education settings, such as teaching drama, performing arts, or community education. Their expertise in applied theatre provides them with a unique skill set to inspire and engage students of all ages.

Artistic Directors and Managers Graduates with a passion for leadership may find roles as artistic directors or managers in cultural and arts organizations. In this role, they guide the overall vision and direction of artistic programming, often with a focus on community engagement and educational outreach.