Theatre Studies

Our BA Theatre Studies gives you the chance to study theatre in one of the most vibrant and exciting theatre cities in the world putting you at the heart of central London’s dynamic arts and culture scene. You will have the option to wholly focus on theatre studies or instead minor in one of the following five areas of study to gain a BA Theatre Studies with:

- Arts Management

- Creative Writing

- English

- Environmental Studies

- Film and Media Studies.

Why choose this course?

- Taught by world-leading academics and award-winning theatre makers, your academic study of theatre history, theory and practice will grow out of the here and now of London theatre today.

- Throughout your degree you will visit the world’s most exciting theatre institutions, attend cutting-edge performances, and learn to analyse them within the context of global theatre history and contemporary theatre theory.

- You will gain access to knowledge, skills and networks that will support your future career in the creative industries.

- You will design your own approach to the interdisciplinary study of theatre with the flexibility to pursue your interests and professional ambitions.

What you will learn

You will study the history of theatre and explore the significance of theatre practice as a mode of entertainment, a method of social engagement and a forum for self-expression. You will explore questions relating to the role of the audience, impact of cultural policies, and histories and legacies behind the development of theatrical forms such as political theatre, Ancient Greek theatre, live art and Christmas pantomimes.

This course does not offer you actor training. Instead it offers you the chance to follow your passion gaining an in-depth understanding of the role of theatre within a broader study of arts, culture, history, theory and practice.

How you will learn

In weekly lecture-seminars you will learn about key histories and concepts and will analyse live and recorded performances which demonstrate the diversity of contemporary London theatre. You will also undertake critical practice modules where you can devise, create and develop interdisciplinary creative projects.

In your final year you will follow your artistic and academic interests to develop an independent research project, either an academic dissertation, original performance or creative project presentation.

This course is available to study full- or part-time. It has an evening timetable with classes taking place in the evening.

Foundation Year

If you opt for the Foundation Year route, this will fully prepare you for undergraduate study. It is ideal if you are returning to study after a gap, or if you have not previously studied the relevant subjects, or if you didn't achieve the grades you need for a place on your chosen undergraduate degree.

Highlights

- Birkbeck was ranked 2nd in the UK for its English Language and Literature research in the most recent 2021 Research Excellence Framework. We were also ranked as one of the top four universities in the UK for our Art and Design research.

- Based at the heart of one of the world's most exciting cities, we combine lectures, seminars and workshops with visits to theatres and other cultural and artistic institutions, and we frequently collaborate with leading arts, cultural, theatre and dance and performing arts organisations, allowing you to ground your studies in real-world practice.

- You will be able to attend events and seminars hosted by the Birkbeck Centre for Contemporary Theatre, enabling you to hear about and experience the latest research and practice from leading scholars and practitioners in the field.

Careers and employability

Graduates can pursue career paths in education, theatre or the media and creative arts. Possible professions include:

- journalist

- arts administrator

- charity officer

- theatre director

- higher education lecturer.