Drama and Film Studies BA (Hons)

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Sussex

Program Overview

The Drama and Film Studies BA (Hons) at the University of Sussex offers a dynamic fusion of practical performance and critical film analysis. This program is ideal for students passionate about storytelling, whether through the stage or the screen, and eager to explore the cultural, political, and artistic dimensions of both mediums.

Curriculum Structure:

Year 1: Students embark on foundational modules such as Introduction to Theatre Practice and Introduction to Film Studies, establishing a solid base in both disciplines. Practical workshops in acting and performance are complemented by analytical studies in film history and theory.

Year 2: The curriculum deepens with modules like Theatre and Performance in Practice and Film and Society. Students engage in collaborative projects, enhancing their creative skills, while critically examining the relationship between cinema and societal issues.

Year 3: In the final year, students undertake independent research through a Drama Dissertation or Film Studies Dissertation, allowing for specialized exploration. The Final-Year Performance Festival provides a platform to showcase their work, bridging academic study with professional practice.

Focus Areas: Performance techniques, film analysis, cultural studies, collaborative projects, independent research.

Learning Outcomes: Critical thinking, creative expression, collaborative skills, research proficiency, professional presentation.

Professional Alignment: The program aligns with industry standards, preparing students for careers in theatre, film, and related fields.

Reputation: The University of Sussex is renowned for its strong emphasis on research and practical application in the arts, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for the professional world.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

If you’re passionate about both stage and screen, the Drama and Film Studies BA (Hons) at the University of Sussex offers an exciting mix of practical experience and critical insight. This program immerses you in the creative industries through hands-on projects, cutting-edge facilities, and the vibrant arts scene of Brighton. You’ll develop skills across a wide range of theatre practices, including acting, devising, choreography, and sound and visual design. The course also encourages exploration of experimental forms, such as live art and site-specific theatre, equipping you for a variety of creative careers.

Beyond the classroom, Sussex provides plenty of opportunities to gain real-world experience and build professional connections. The university’s close links with the local arts community and focus on experiential learning ensure that you graduate with both the knowledge and practical skills needed to succeed in the creative industries.

Key experiential learning opportunities include:

Attenborough Centre for Creative Arts (ACCA): A modern venue with a flexible auditorium, rehearsal studios, and creative spaces for performances and installations.
Creativity Zone & Silverstone Studio: Dedicated areas for collaborative projects and experimentation.
Adobe Creative Cloud Access: Students can use industry-standard software like Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere Pro, and Audition for digital media projects.
Film and Video Studios: Professional-grade equipment for hands-on filmmaking experience.
Foley Studio: A specialized audio facility with a control room and live space for creating sound effects.
Resource Centre: A collection of over 5,000 films, documentaries, TV programmes, music CDs, and scores for research and study.
Internship Opportunities: Various placements to gain real-world experience in arts and media sectors.
Brighton Film Festival Engagement: Chances to work with local cinemas and participate in Brighton’s international film festival.
Collaborative Projects: Group work and interdisciplinary modules that foster teamwork and creative collaboration.

By combining rigorous academic study with hands-on experience, the Drama and Film Studies BA at Sussex prepares you to thrive in the creative industries. If you’re ready to explore drama and film in a supportive, innovative environment, this program is a fantastic choice.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Drama and Film Studies BA (Hons) at the University of Sussex are well-prepared to step into dynamic careers in the creative industries. This program encourages intellectual curiosity, sharpens critical thinking, and hones communication skills, equipping students for roles such as:

Film and television production assistant
Theatre practitioner or director
Media content creator or editor
Arts administrator or events coordinator

The university places strong emphasis on employability, with 86% of undergraduates completing work experience by the end of their course. The program’s strong industry connections and dedicated support services further enhance career prospects.

University Support & Industry Connections

Career Services: Sussex provides tailored guidance to help students transition into the workforce, including CV workshops, interview preparation, and one-on-one career advice.

Work Experience Opportunities: With most students completing work placements during their studies, graduates gain practical exposure that strengthens their skills and confidence in real-world settings.

Industry Partnerships: Collaborations with organizations such as the Attenborough Centre for Creative Arts and the Centre for Research in Creative and Performing Arts allow students to work with industry professionals and participate in real-world projects.

Accreditation: The program aligns with industry standards, ensuring graduates are recognized by professional bodies and valued by employers.

Graduation Outcomes: Sussex graduates have successfully pursued careers across film, theatre, television, and media production, reflecting the program’s versatility and industry relevance.

Further Academic Progression

Postgraduate Opportunities:

After completing the BA (Hons) in Drama and Film Studies, graduates can explore advanced studies through postgraduate programs. The University of Sussex offers specialized master’s degrees such as the Filmmaking MA, which focuses on film production and storytelling. For those interested in research, the university’s strong academic culture supports doctoral study in the arts and humanities.

Embarking on this degree at Sussex not only opens doors to creative careers but also lays a strong foundation for continued academic and professional growth.