Introduction to Theatre and Performing (Placement Year) BA Hons

Theatre and Performing (Placement Year) BA Hons is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to equip students with the skills, knowledge, and experience necessary to succeed in the theatre industry. This four-year program includes a placement year, providing students with the opportunity to gain valuable industry experience and build their professional network.

Overview

The program is tailored to students who are passionate about theatre and performance, offering a forward-thinking curriculum that combines practical skills with theoretical knowledge. Students will have the opportunity to specialize in their chosen area of theatre, such as acting, directing, playwriting, or applied theatre, and will be supported by professional theatre practitioners and academics.

Top Reasons to Study with Us

• 2nd for Drama, Dance and Cinematics in The Complete University Guide 2026
• 12th for Drama, Dance and Cinematics in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026
• Specialize in your chosen area of theatre, with a focus on creative risk-taking and developing an original voice

Why Lancaster?

• Benefit from a forward-thinking curriculum that is firmly based on the skills and knowledge needed in the theatre industry
• Tailor your studies by specializing in your chosen area of theatre
• Enjoy a practical course where you can bring your theoretical ideas to life in imaginative ways
• Take advantage of regular networking opportunities with professional theatres and arts organizations
• Choose a course that expertly combines practical skills with contextual knowledge, giving you a strong understanding of 21st-century theatre and its impact on society

The Future of Theatre

This course looks to the future, focusing on emerging trends and innovations in 21st-century theatre and performance. Students will learn about the building blocks of performance making and will be supported in developing highly creative, challenging, and impactful work.

Course Structure

The program is divided into four years, with the third year spent on a placement. The course structure includes:

• Year 1: Introduction to theatre and performance, including modules on accessibility and inclusion, living theory, and making theatre
• Year 2: Development of skills and knowledge, with modules on making theatre beyond the stage, sustainable practice, and theatre and society
• Year 3: Placement year, where students will spend 9-12 months in a graduate-level position
• Year 4: Final year, with modules on festival of the future, making theatre 3, and theatre independent project

Core Modules

• Accessibility and Inclusion in Creative Industries
• Living Theory
• Making Theatre 1: Acting, Directing and Collaborating
• Raw Materials of Performance
• The Arts and Identity (Discovery module)
• Making Theatre 2: Beyond the Stage
• Sustainable Practice
• Theatre and Society 2
• Work-Based Learning Year
• Festival of the Future
• Making Theatre 3: Advanced Performance Project
• Theatre Independent Project

Optional Modules

• Cultural Diversity and Professional Contexts (Discovery module)
• Employability, Purpose and Social Impact (Discovery module)
• Global Challenges and Collaborative Solutions (Discovery module)
• Playwriting
• Screenwriting
• Taking an Idea and Making it Happen (Discovery module)
• Artistic Fusions (Discovery module)
• Confronting the Climate Crisis (Discovery module)
• Futures Beyond Borders (Discovery module)
• Love and Friendship (Discovery module)
• People Power and Collective Action (Discovery module)
• Queer Futures (Discovery module)
• Technology and Social Justice (Discovery module)
• The Power of Ideas (Discovery module)

Entry Requirements

• A levels: BBB, with Theatre, Drama, Dance, or Performing Arts considered desirable subjects
• Access to HE Diploma: 24 Level 3 credits at Distinction plus 21 Level 3 credits at Merit
• Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales: accepted in place of one A level
• BTEC Extended Diploma: DDM, ideally in Performing Arts
• International Baccalaureate: 30 points overall, including 15 points from the best 3 HL subjects
• GCSE requirements: no specific GCSE requirements, but overall GCSE profile will be considered
• English language requirements: IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with at least 5.5 in each component

Fees and Funding

• Home fees: ｣9,790 per year
• International fees: ｣25,490 per year
• Additional costs: students may need to attend performance events, and there may be costs associated with costumes, props, and travel
• Scholarships and bursaries: available to eligible students, including the Lancaster Bursary, Undergraduate Excellence Scholarship, and International Undergraduate Excellence Scholarship

Careers

Graduates of this program have gone on to pursue successful careers in theatre, television, film, digital media, community arts, and education. The program is designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the theatre industry, and the placement year provides valuable industry experience and networking opportunities.

Similar Courses

• Drama, Theatre and Performance BA Hons
• Theatre and Performing (Study Abroad) BA Hons

Important Information

The University reserves the right to make changes to advertised courses, and students will be notified of any changes. The program is subject to annual review, and fees may increase in line with UK government policy.

Lancaster University

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Overview:

Lancaster University is a public research university located in Lancaster, England. It is consistently ranked among the top 10 universities in the UK and is recognized for its high-quality teaching, research, and student experience.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Lancaster University offers a vibrant and diverse campus experience. Students can enjoy a range of facilities, including a library, sports center, and arts venues. The university also has a strong sense of community, with a variety of student societies and clubs to join.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

High Rankings and Reputation:

Lancaster University is consistently ranked among the top 10 universities in the UK, demonstrating its academic excellence.

Excellent Teaching and Learning:

The university is known for its high-quality teaching and learning, with a focus on student engagement and support.

Vibrant Student Life:

Lancaster University offers a wide range of opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities, including sports, societies, and arts events.

Beautiful Campus:

The university is situated on a beautiful campus with modern facilities and green spaces.

Strong Career Support:

Lancaster University provides excellent career support services to help students prepare for their future careers.

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Academic Programs:

Lancaster University offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including: * Arts and Social Sciences * Health and Medicine * Management School * Science and Technology