Music, Film & Drama BA

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University College Dublin

Program Overview

The BA Humanities in Music, Film & Drama at UCD offers an engaging, interdisciplinary approach to the creative arts, blending practical experience with critical study. It’s perfect for students who are passionate about music, performance, and film, and who want to develop both analytical skills and creative expression.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
In the first year, students gain a broad foundation across music, film, and drama. Modules such as Introduction to Music Studies, Introduction to Film Studies, and Foundations of Drama introduce core concepts, practical skills, and critical thinking, preparing students for more focused study in later years.

Year 2
The second year allows students to build deeper understanding and begin to specialize. Courses like Performance Techniques in Drama, Sound and Music Technology, and Film Analysis and Theory give hands-on experience in creating and interpreting work while developing historical and cultural awareness.

Year 3
In the third year, students tackle advanced, discipline-specific modules and project-based work. Modules such as Composing and Arranging, Screen Production, and Theatre Practice encourage independent creativity, collaboration, and the integration of theory and practice in substantial projects.

Year 4
The final year focuses on specialization, research, and professional preparation. Students complete a major project or dissertation, taking modules such as Capstone Project in Music, Film, or Drama, Advanced Performance Studies, and Film Production Practice, showcasing their skills, critical insight, and creative vision.

Focus areas

Music, Film, Drama, Performance, Creative Production, Cultural Analysis, Interdisciplinary Arts

Learning outcomes

Develop critical thinking, research and analytical skills in the arts, practical competence in music, theatre, and film production, collaborative and communication abilities, professional portfolio creation, and cultural literacy in contemporary and historical contexts

Professional alignment (accreditation)

UCD degrees are internationally recognized; the program prepares graduates for careers in arts, media, performance, and cultural sectors

Reputation (employability rankings)

University College Dublin is highly regarded globally for arts and humanities, with strong graduate employability and recognition in international university rankings

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students in the BA Humanities in Music, Film & Drama at UCD don’t just study creative arts—they actively experience them. You’ll gain practical skills through hands-on projects, performances, and production work, all supported by dedicated facilities and spaces where you can rehearse, create, and collaborate with peers across music, theatre, and media. This program encourages real-world engagement, whether performing, composing, or producing, helping you develop both confidence and professional experience.

Experiential learning in this program includes:

Performance and creative modules that involve actual production, staging, composing, or performance work as part of your coursework. You’ll take units such as Introduction to Acting, Performance Techniques, or Producing Music, Film & Drama that provide hands-on experience.
Internship and study abroad opportunities in the third year, allowing you to gain industry insight or international cultural experience.
Structured performance ensembles and electives through the UCD School of Music, including choirs and instrumental groups, to develop teamwork, ensemble skills, and performance confidence.
Access to creative facilities and spaces across UCD for rehearsal, performance, and media work, supported by the schools of music, drama, and film.
Engagement with cultural events in Dublin, such as the Dublin Theatre Festival and Fringe Festival, offering exposure to professional practice and contemporary performance work.
Active societies and student groups like the Film Society and Drama Society, where you can make films, perform regularly, and join a creative community beyond your classes.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from the BA Humanities in Music, Film & Drama at UCD are well-prepared to step confidently into creative and cultural careers, equipped with strong communication, analytical, and production skills. Many go on to work in media, performance, arts administration, or storytelling roles both in Ireland and internationally. Typical roles include creative producer, film and media coordinator, performer or dramaturg, and arts and cultural programmer, offering a versatile launchpad into the creative industries.

Progression & Future Opportunities:

Career support services tailored to you: UCD’s Careers Network provides one-to-one consultations, internship fairs, CV and interview workshops, and ongoing guidance throughout your studies. The School of Arts and Humanities also connects students with a dedicated Career and Skills Consultant for personalised advice.
Strong employment outcomes: UCD graduates consistently achieve high employment rates, with most students moving into work or further study within months of finishing their degree.
Industry connections and partnerships: Third-year internships offer real workplace experience in cultural organisations, media, or arts institutions. Alumni mentorship programmes give students access to experienced professionals who provide career guidance and support.
Long-term accreditation value: A UCD degree is internationally recognised, and the skills you gain—creative thinking, communication, research, and teamwork—are highly valued across cultural, educational, media, and public sectors.
Graduate outcomes: Graduates find opportunities in journalism, communications, education, creative and cultural industries, the public sector, and more, using their degree as a foundation for diverse and rewarding careers.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this programme, students can continue their studies with postgraduate options such as a Master of Arts in Theatre Practice, a Master of Music (including musicology or creative practice), an MA in Writing for Stage and Screen, or research degrees like a PhD in Drama, Film, or Music Studies. These pathways allow students to deepen their expertise, specialise in a particular art form, or prepare for academic and research careers.