Aberystwyth University United Kingdom

BA Drama and Theatre / International Relations

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 3 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

Explore the dynamic interplay between global politics and performance with the BA Drama and Theatre / International Relations degree at Aberystwyth University. This unique undergraduate program is designed for students passionate about understanding the complexities of international relations through the powerful lens of theatre and performance. You will delve into how drama shapes and reflects societal beliefs, confront global challenges from multiple perspectives, and develop a nuanced appreciation for cultural and political discourse. This course offers a rigorous academic journey, equipping you with critical thinking and creative problem-solving skills essential for addressing contemporary issues.

You will study this full-time, on-campus degree over three years, engaging with core modules in International Relations and Drama and Theatre, alongside a wide array of optional subjects. Your learning experience will be enriched by practical projects, potentially including participation in the renowned ‘Crisis Games’ simulation and opportunities through the Parliamentary Placement Scheme. You will graduate with a comprehensive understanding of both political theory and theatrical practice, prepared for diverse career paths in diplomacy, policy, the arts, or further academic study. Aberystwyth University fosters an inspiring environment for you to become an independent, creative thinker.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BA Drama and Theatre / International Relations program offers a comprehensive exploration of both disciplines. Students will engage with core concepts in international politics, global development, and contemporary political issues, alongside practical and theoretical aspects of theatre and performance. The curriculum progresses from foundational knowledge in the first year to more specialized topics and research opportunities in subsequent years, culminating in a dissertation or independent research project.

1 YEAR 1

Behind the headlines
Exploring the international 1: central concepts and core skills
Theatre in context 1
Theatre in context 2
Globalization and global development
Politics in the 21st century
Site-specific performance project
Studio theatre project
The making of the modern world: war, peace and revolution since 1789
War, strategy and intelligence
Body, voice, expression
Body, voice, perception

2 YEAR 2

International relations: perspectives and debates
A war on the mind: propaganda and secret intelligence from the great war to the 21st century
Acting for camera
Acting: process and performance
Capitalism and international politics
Climate change politics
Climate change and international politics in the anthropocene
Contemporary Latin America
Design project
Devised performance project
Devolution and wales
Directors' theatre
International politics and global development
Intervention and humanitarianism
Militaries and crisis: where strategy meets society
New media performance
People and power: understanding comparative politics today
Political theory
Politics in diverse societies
Questions of international politics
Russian intelligence from lenin to putin
Science, technology, and international relations
Shakespeare in performance
Strategy, intelligence and security in international politics
Terrorism & counter terrorism in the modern world: policing, intelligence & war
The brics in world politics
The european union: politics, policies, problems
The governance of climate change: simulation module
The second world war in europe
Theatre production project
Theatre and contemporary society
Total war, total peace
Trade wars and the liberal order
War crimes
Warfare after waterloo: military history 1815-1918

3 YEAR 3

Dissertation
Contemporary drama
Musical theatre dramaturgies
Performance and architecture
Performance and disability
Place, space and landscape
A war on the mind: propaganda and secret intelligence from the great war to the 21st century
Capitalism and international politics
Climate change politics
Contemporary latin america
Devolution and wales
Intervention and humanitarianism
Militaries and crisis: where strategy meets society
Political theory
Politics in diverse societies
Questions of international politics
Russian intelligence from lenin to putin
Science, technology, and international relations
Terrorism & counter terrorism in the modern world: policing, intelligence & war
The brics in world politics
The european union: politics, policies, problems
The second world war in europe
Total war, total peace
Trade wars and the liberal order
War crimes
Ensemble performance project
Independent research project
Playwriting

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

10% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 23,256.00 USD 25,939.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 25,939.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 25,939.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 75,134.00 USD 77,817.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 689.00 - USD 1,322.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,417.00 - USD 4,028.00
Transport USD 645.00 - USD 1,289.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,128.00 - USD 1,934.00
Estimated Total USD 4,190.00 - USD 7,251.00

Living cost estimates are based on Penglais campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

96%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accounting & AuditingAmusement & Recreation ServicesBroadcasting & TelevisionCommercial & Industrial ConstructionConsumer Finance & Credit ServicesEconomic Research & PolicyMuseums & Cultural HeritagePhotojournalism & Visual MediaQuantity Surveying & Cost EstimationTalent & Artist Management

Top Employers Hiring for this course

British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)

Department for Business and Trade

European commission

ITV

Why Study BA Drama and Theatre / International Relations at Aberystwyth University

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at Aberystwyth University in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about BA Drama and Theatre / International Relations at Aberystwyth University

Can I work while studying?

Degree students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is required for this.

What English language score do I need for this course?

International students must meet specific English language requirements: a TOEFL overall score of 93, IELTS overall score of 6.5, or PTE score of 59. These scores ensure you have the necessary proficiency to succeed in the course.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as Theatre Directors, International Relations Analysts, Cultural Managers, Performance Artists, or Educators.

What will I actually study in this course?

This course combines the study of dramatic arts with international relations, allowing you to explore global politics through cultural expressions. You'll engage in creative practices and critical thinking while learning to address global challenges.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The BA Drama and Theatre / International Relations program at Aberystwyth University starts in September. Ensure you meet the entry requirements before applying.
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