Aberystwyth University United Kingdom

BA Drama and Theatre with Foundation year

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree With Integrated Foundation Year
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The BA Drama and Theatre with Foundation year at Aberystwyth University is your gateway to understanding and shaping the world of performance. This undergraduate degree is designed for aspiring artists and thinkers who are passionate about the power of theatre and its role in society, exploring how drama functions as a critical lens on culture and contemporary issues. You will delve into diverse areas such as site-specific performance, directing, acting, and new media, developing a nuanced perspective on the historical and theoretical underpinnings of theatrical practice. This course provides a robust foundation for those seeking to engage deeply with the creative and analytical aspects of drama and theatre.

This full-time, four-year programme, studied on campus, offers a progressive learning journey. Your initial foundation year will equip you with essential academic skills, preparing you for the in-depth study that follows. Across subsequent years, you will engage in practical projects, including ensemble and independent productions, alongside modules covering theatre technologies, scenography, and contemporary performance. You will work alongside experienced practitioners and benefit from access to excellent facilities, culminating in significant independent research or production projects. You will graduate prepared for diverse career paths in the arts sector, further study, or related creative industries.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BA Drama and Theatre with Foundation year program provides a comprehensive exploration of theatrical practice and theory. Across four years, students will engage with foundational academic skills, delve into historical and contemporary theatre contexts, and develop practical performance and production expertise. The curriculum culminates in advanced projects, allowing for independent research, playwriting, and the creation of innovative performance work.

1 YEAR 1

How to be a Student 1
How to be a Student 2
Information in a Post-Truth World
Introduction to Humanities
Representing the Other: Cultures and Clashes
The "Othered" Migrant: Social Science Perspectives
Understanding Change - Environment, People, Places

2 YEAR 2

Theatre in Context 1
Theatre in Context 2
Site-Specific Performance Project
Studio Theatre Project
Body, Voice, Expression
Body, Voice, Perception
Making Short Films 1
Theatre Technologies

3 YEAR 3

Directors' Theatre
New Media Performance
Shakespeare in Performance
Theatre and Contemporary Society
Acting for Camera
Acting: Process and Performance
Design Project
Devised Performance Project
Theatre Production Project

4 YEAR 4

Ensemble Performance Project
Independent Production Project
Independent Research Project
Playwriting
Contemporary Drama
Musical Theatre Dramaturgies
Performance and Architecture
Performance and Disability
Place, Space and Landscape

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
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 25,939.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 101,073.00 USD 103,756.00

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

Advertising & Media SalesAmusement & Recreation ServicesBroadcasting & TelevisionDigital Media & Online PublishingEvent Promotion & ManagementGaming & Interactive MediaMuseums & Cultural HeritagePhotojournalism & Visual MediaPublic Broadcasting & DocumentaryTalent & Artist Management

Top Employers Hiring for this course

British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)

ITV

Why Study BA Drama and Theatre with Foundation year 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 with Foundation year at Aberystwyth University

Can I work while studying?

Degree students in the UK can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks without needing a separate work permit. Part-time students and those on diploma courses have different limitations.

What English language score do I need for this course?

International students must meet specific English proficiency scores. Acceptable scores include a TOEFL overall score of 93, IELTS overall score of 6.5, or PTE overall score of 59.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue various roles including theatre director, production manager, stage designer, actor, and lighting technician.

What will I actually study in this course?

This program offers hands-on experience through performance projects and access to industry connections like National Theatre Wales and Aberystwyth Arts Centre. You'll benefit from expert mentoring in various fields such as theatre-making and scenography.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The BA Drama and Theatre with Foundation Year program at Aberystwyth begins in September each year. Ensure you apply in advance to secure your spot.
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