MA Migration Studies
The MA in Migration and Refugee Studies at Sussex is a one-year full-time or two-year p...
BA (Hons) Drama and English (with a study abroad year)
Falmer
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BA (Hons) Drama and English (with a Study Abroad Year) at the University of Sussex offers a unique opportunity for students to combine the creative exploration of drama with the analytical study of English literature. This interdisciplinary program allows students to engage deeply with dramatic arts and English literature, developing both performance and critical thinking skills. The program is structured to help students understand the evolution of drama, explore the major works of English literature, and examine the intersection of both fields. The inclusion of a study abroad year further enhances the learning experience, providing students with the chance to immerse themselves in different cultural perspectives and gain a global understanding of drama and literature.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the BA (Hons) Drama and English (with a Study Abroad Year) is designed to offer a balanced approach to both practical and theoretical aspects of drama and literature. In the first two years, students will explore foundational topics in drama theory, performance techniques, and English literary history, focusing on key texts from different periods and genres. Students will develop skills in performing, directing, and analyzing drama, while also engaging in literary criticism and textual analysis. The program includes modules such as Drama in Performance, Shakespeare and his Contemporaries, Modernist Literature, and Playwriting and Adaptation. In the third year, students will have the opportunity to spend a year studying abroad at one of the University of Sussex’s partner institutions, gaining international exposure and further developing their understanding of drama and literature in a global context. Upon their return, students will focus on advanced topics such as Contemporary Theatre and Postcolonial Literature, and engage in independent projects, including performances and research dissertations.
Research Focus: The University of Sussex has a strong research culture within both drama and English departments. Research in the Drama department focuses on contemporary performance practices, applied theatre, and the exploration of performance in relation to social, political, and cultural issues. The English department is known for its expertise in literary theory, postcolonial studies, modernist literature, and critical writing. The university fosters an environment where students are encouraged to engage with ongoing research, and they have opportunities to collaborate with faculty members on innovative projects. The research-driven approach to learning ensures that students are exposed to the latest critical and creative thinking in the fields of drama and literature.
Industry Engagement: The BA (Hons) Drama and English program at the University of Sussex places a strong emphasis on industry engagement, preparing students for careers in theatre, publishing, media, education, and beyond. The university has established connections with theatre companies, literary agencies, publishers, and media organizations, offering students valuable opportunities for work placements, internships, and collaborative projects. The university's close proximity to London also offers access to a wide range of professional networks in the creative industries. Students benefit from regular guest lectures, workshops, and masterclasses led by professionals from the world of theatre, literature, and media. These opportunities not only provide insight into industry practices but also help students build important connections for their future careers.
Global Perspective: The inclusion of a study abroad year significantly enhances the global perspective of the BA (Hons) Drama and English program. Students have the opportunity to study at one of the University of Sussex’s partner institutions around the world, enriching their academic experience and gaining exposure to different cultural approaches to drama and literature. This international experience allows students to explore different theatre traditions, literary canons, and global literary movements, broadening their understanding of the interconnectedness of the arts and humanities. The program’s global outlook ensures that graduates are well-prepared to work in a diverse range of cultural and professional settings, whether in the UK or abroad.
Location
Falmer
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
£ 19050
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 80% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 80.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Sussex offers a range of scholarships and financial support for international students to help make studying in the UK more accessible. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, support for underrepresented groups, and the ambition to help students thrive in their studies.
Sussex International Scholarships: The University offers a range of scholarships specifically for international students, including the Sussex Excellence Scholarships.These awards typically cover a portion of the tuition fees and are available for students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees.
Specific Country Scholarships: The University also offers country-specific scholarships for students from particular regions, such as Africa, India, and China.These awards are often designed to make studying at Sussex more accessible for students from those regions.
Graduates of the BA (Hons) Drama and English (with a Study Abroad Year) from the University of Sussex are equipped with a diverse skill set that opens up a wide range of career opportunities in the arts, literature, education, media, and beyond. By combining critical thinking, creativity, performance skills, and an understanding of global cultural perspectives, this interdisciplinary program prepares students to excel in both creative and analytical fields.
Theatre and Performance Careers: One of the most natural career paths for graduates is within the theatre industry. They can pursue roles as actors, directors, producers, stage managers, or playwrights. The program’s emphasis on practical performance and the study of dramatic works prepares students to contribute to a wide variety of theatrical productions, from contemporary plays to classic revivals. Graduates may also find roles in community theatre, applied theatre, and theatre education, where they can use drama as a tool for social change and community engagement.
Writing and Publishing: Graduates can also explore careers in writing and publishing, particularly in fields such as creative writing, literary criticism, journalism, and editing. With their expertise in English literature, graduates can work as authors, novelists, scriptwriters, content writers, or bloggers. They are well-prepared for roles in editorial positions at publishing houses, magazines, or digital media outlets, where they can focus on reviewing books, scripts, or creative content. Their deep understanding of literary traditions also enables them to work as literary agents or in book marketing and publicity.
Teaching and Education: The skills gained through the BA (Hons) Drama and English program make graduates highly suited for careers in education. Graduates can work as secondary school teachers in English, Drama, or both, or pursue teaching positions in higher education institutions as lecturers in English or Drama departments. They may also work as specialist drama educators, running drama workshops for schools, youth centers, and community organizations. Additionally, the program provides a strong foundation for those interested in teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL), particularly with the global perspective gained through the study abroad year.
Media and Broadcasting: With a focus on storytelling, performance, and critical analysis, graduates are well-equipped for careers in media and broadcasting. They can pursue roles as television producers, script editors, broadcast journalists, or radio hosts. Graduates may also work as production assistants or researchers for television shows, documentaries, or radio programs, particularly those that require creative writing, dramaturgical input, or critical content. Their ability to engage with diverse audiences, understand different cultural contexts, and create compelling narratives makes them highly adaptable in the media landscape.
Cultural and Arts Management: Graduates may choose to work in arts administration or cultural management, where they can take on roles such as arts managers, event coordinators, or fundraisers for theatres, galleries, museums, and cultural institutions. These roles involve overseeing the production, promotion, and funding of cultural projects and performances. Graduates can work with arts organizations, theatres, or festivals, organizing events and ensuring that creative initiatives are effectively managed from conception to execution.
Film and Television: For those with an interest in film and television, this program provides a strong foundation for roles in film production, screenwriting, film criticism, and film directing. Graduates can work as scriptwriters for television or film, crafting original content or adapting literary works for the screen. With practical experience in performance and dramaturgy, graduates are also well-suited to become casting directors, location managers, or work in production design for film and television projects.
Public Relations and Communications: Graduates can pursue careers in public relations and communications, particularly in roles that require writing, content creation, and media interaction. As PR consultants, communications officers, or social media managers, graduates can manage a company's or individual’s public image, craft compelling narratives, and engage with the media. Their background in storytelling and literature enables them to create persuasive content for press releases, blogs, and social media campaigns.
Tourism and Heritage Industry: The global experience gained during the study abroad year, coupled with an understanding of culture, history, and performance, positions graduates for roles in the tourism and heritage sectors. They can work as tour guides, heritage managers, or museum curators, where they can bring literature, history, and culture to life for visitors. Graduates can also find opportunities in cultural tourism management, developing and promoting cultural experiences for tourists.
Freelancing and Consultancy: Many graduates choose to work as freelancers or consultants, offering their skills in areas such as writing, performance coaching, acting, or theatre production. Freelancing provides the flexibility to work across various sectors, including corporate events, voice-over work, script consulting, and acting for advertisements. Graduates who wish to start their own business in any of these areas can leverage their entrepreneurial skills to build a portfolio of clients and projects.
NGOs and Social Justice Organizations: With the study of social issues in both drama and literature, graduates may choose to work in non-governmental organizations (NGOs) or social justice organizations, particularly in roles related to advocacy, community outreach, and social change. Graduates can use the power of drama to address societal issues and engage communities in meaningful dialogue and action.
