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, Theatre and Performance (with a study abroad year)
Falmer
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BA (Hons) Drama, Theatre and Performance (with a study abroad year) at the University of Sussex offers an immersive and innovative exploration of theatre-making and performance practices. Designed for students passionate about both traditional and experimental forms of theatre, this program combines critical theory with practical application. Over four years, students not only deepen their creative and academic skills but also broaden their cultural perspectives through a transformative international study experience in their third year. The University of Sussex, renowned for its progressive teaching methods and vibrant arts community, provides an inspiring environment where creativity and academic rigor thrive.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the BA (Hons) Drama, Theatre and Performance at Sussex is both comprehensive and flexible, allowing students to tailor their learning to their interests. Core modules cover essential areas such as performance skills, dramatic theory, devising, directing, and stage production. Students engage with a diverse range of performance practices, including contemporary performance, political theatre, and multimedia production. Elective modules offer opportunities to specialize in areas like playwriting, physical theatre, and scenography. The third-year study abroad component enriches the academic journey by exposing students to global performance traditions and pedagogies. In the final year, students undertake a major creative project, showcasing their development as independent artists and researchers.
Research Focus: The University of Sussex has a strong research culture that informs the BA (Hons) Drama, Theatre and Performance program. Faculty members are internationally recognized scholars and practitioners whose research spans areas such as experimental performance, global theatre, queer performance studies, and applied theatre. Students benefit from research-led teaching, with opportunities to engage in original research projects and practice-based inquiries. The department frequently hosts workshops, guest lectures, and symposia, connecting students with cutting-edge developments in the field of theatre and performance studies.
Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is a key strength of the program. The University of Sussex maintains strong links with local, national, and international theatre companies, arts organizations, and cultural institutions. Students gain valuable industry experience through internships, collaborative projects, and professional workshops. Partnerships with venues such as Brighton Festival, Brighton Dome, and local theatre companies provide practical platforms for students to perform and network. In addition, the study abroad year allows students to build global industry contacts, preparing them for diverse careers in performance, directing, producing, arts management, and cultural policy.
Global Perspective: The study abroad year is a standout feature of this degree, reflecting Sussex’s commitment to fostering a global outlook. Students have the chance to study at partner universities across North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia, gaining insights into international theatre practices and broadening their cultural horizons. This global experience enhances students' adaptability, creativity, and critical thinking skills — essential attributes in today’s interconnected arts and cultural industries. Upon graduation, students emerge as versatile, culturally aware practitioners ready to contribute to the global performing arts scene.
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.
The BA (Hons) Drama, Theatre and Performance (with a study abroad year) at the University of Sussex equips students with a diverse skill set, making them highly employable in a variety of creative and professional fields. The program's blend of academic study, practical performance experience, and international exposure ensures that graduates are not only well-prepared for careers in the performing arts but also for roles in other industries that value creativity, communication, and critical thinking.
Performing Arts Careers: Graduates from this program are well-positioned to pursue careers as professional performers, including actors, dancers, or performance artists. The program’s practical approach provides students with the skills and experience necessary to enter competitive roles in theatres, film, television, and live performance. Many graduates also pursue further training in specialized areas, such as musical theatre, physical theatre, or circus arts.
Theatre Directing and Production: Students who develop a strong interest in theatre direction, stage management, or production can pursue a variety of roles in the theatrical production process. This could include positions such as assistant director, stage manager, production assistant, or technical director. Graduates can find opportunities with theatre companies, festivals, and cultural organizations, both in the UK and abroad.
Arts Management and Administration: The program's emphasis on creative problem-solving, leadership, and organizational skills also prepares students for careers in arts management and administration. Graduates can take on roles such as arts manager, production coordinator, events manager, or marketing and publicity officer for theatres, cultural institutions, and arts festivals. The practical knowledge gained through the course, combined with industry exposure, gives graduates a competitive edge in the field.
Playwriting and Dramaturgy: For those with a passion for storytelling, writing, and creating new works, the degree offers a pathway into playwriting, dramaturgy, and scriptwriting. Graduates can pursue careers as playwrights, screenwriters, or dramaturgs, working with theatre companies, film producers, and broadcasters to develop new and innovative performances and scripts.
Teaching and Education: Graduates may also choose to share their passion for drama and performance by becoming educators. The program provides an excellent foundation for teaching roles in schools, drama academies, and universities, with many graduates going on to teach drama or theatre studies at various educational levels. Additionally, some students pursue postgraduate qualifications in education to teach at primary, secondary, or higher education levels.
Applied Theatre and Community Arts: Graduates can engage in applied theatre practices, using theatre and performance to address social issues, engage with communities, and promote cultural change. Career paths include working with community organizations, youth groups, hospitals, or prisons, using theatre as a tool for education, therapy, and social engagement. Roles may include applied theatre practitioner, facilitator, or community arts coordinator.
Media and Creative Industries: The transferable skills gained during the course—such as effective communication, creative thinking, and project management—open up diverse opportunities in media, television, radio, and film production. Graduates can pursue careers in roles like script editor, production assistant, media planner, or content creator, working with TV networks, film studios, or media agencies.
International Opportunities: The study abroad year enhances students’ global outlook, providing a unique edge in the international job market. With the ability to work in diverse cultural contexts, graduates often find opportunities in global arts organizations, international festivals, and cultural exchanges. The experience of studying abroad also helps graduates build a global network of industry contacts that can be instrumental in securing international work.
