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The Drama and Film BA at the University of Birmingham offers an immersive exploration of storytelling across stage and screen, blending practical performance with critical analysis. Ideal for those passionate about the arts, this program equips students with the skills to create, perform, and critically engage with dramatic and cinematic works.
Curriculum Structure:
Year 1:
In the first year, students are introduced to foundational concepts in both drama and film. Modules such as "Introduction to Performance" and "Film Studies: An Introduction" provide a solid grounding in performance techniques and cinematic analysis. This year emphasizes developing practical skills and understanding the theoretical frameworks that underpin both disciplines.
Year 2:
The second year delves deeper into specialized areas, with modules like "Theatre and Performance Practice" and "Film History and Theory." Students engage in more complex projects, enhancing their practical abilities while critically examining historical and contemporary works. This year encourages students to begin developing their unique artistic voices.
Year 3:
In the final year, students undertake advanced modules such as "Independent Project in Drama" and "Advanced Film Studies," allowing for in-depth exploration of topics of personal interest. The culmination of the program involves producing a significant piece of work, demonstrating the skills and knowledge acquired throughout the course.
Focus Areas:
Performance techniques, cinematic analysis, storytelling across media, critical theory, creative practice
Learning Outcomes:
Enhanced practical performance skills, critical understanding of film and theatre, ability to create and analyze dramatic works, proficiency in interdisciplinary approaches
Professional Alignment (Accreditation):
The program is designed to align with industry standards, preparing graduates for careers in theatre, film, and related fields.
Reputation (Employability Rankings):
The University of Birmingham is recognized for its strong employability outcomes, with graduates from the Drama and Film BA program finding success in various creative industries.
Experiential Learning
At the University of Birmingham, Drama and Film students don’t just study theory—they actively create, perform, and analyze drama and film in hands-on settings. From collaborative projects to practical workshops, the program emphasizes real-world skills that prepare students for careers in the creative industries. Students engage with both live performance and screen-based media, learning how to translate ideas into polished productions while receiving feedback from industry professionals. The university provides a vibrant environment where experimentation and creativity thrive, supported by state-of-the-art facilities and expert guidance.
Students gain practical experience through opportunities such as:
Performance Studios and Theatres: Access to fully equipped drama studios and the Birmingham Repertory Theatre, allowing students to rehearse and perform professional-standard productions.
Film and Media Labs: Dedicated editing suites and production equipment for film-making projects, including digital cameras, sound recording, and lighting setups.
Collaborative Projects: Group projects that simulate professional production environments, fostering teamwork, project management, and creative problem-solving.
Internships and Industry Links: Opportunities to connect with film companies, theatres, and cultural organizations for real-world experience and networking.
Workshops and Masterclasses: Sessions led by visiting practitioners in acting, directing, screenwriting, and technical production.
Special Collections and Libraries: Access to extensive film and drama archives in the University of Birmingham Library, supporting research and inspiration for practical projects.
Field Trips and Live Screenings: Visits to theatres, film sets, and cultural events, helping students contextualize their learning within the industry.
Research and Practice Facilities: Spaces for experimental and creative research, including rehearsal rooms equipped for both traditional and contemporary performance techniques.
Future Progression & Opportunities
Graduates of the Drama and Film BA at the University of Birmingham leave with a strong foundation in both creative and analytical skills, preparing them for diverse roles in the creative industries. Many alumni pursue careers in film production, theatre, and media research:
Typical job roles: Theatre Producer, Film/TV Production Assistant, Arts Administrator, Media Researcher.
University support and career development include:
Careers Network: Offers one-to-one careers guidance, internship placements, and CV workshops tailored to creative industries.
Employment statistics: A high proportion of graduates (over 90%) enter employment or further study within six months of graduation, with starting salaries averaging £22,000–£28,000 depending on the sector.
University–industry partnerships: Collaborations with organisations such as the Birmingham Repertory Theatre and regional film studios provide practical experience and networking opportunities.
Accreditation value: The degree is widely recognised, offering credibility in professional arts and media circles.
Graduate outcomes: Alumni have successfully pursued roles in theatre production, film development, screenwriting, and cultural management.
Further Academic Progression:
Graduates can enhance their expertise with postgraduate studies such as:
MA in Film and Television Production
MA in Theatre Studies
Creative Writing and Media Studies Master’s programs
This progression opens doors to advanced creative roles, academic research, or teaching in higher education.
A Level: AAB or equivalent.IB: 6,6,5 in Higher level subjects plus 32 points overall, including a Higher Level subject from our list of preferred subjects:English Language, English Literature English Language and Literature, Modern Language, History, Law, Religious Studies, Media Studies, Film Studies, Theatre Studies.IELTS: 6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in any band.TOEFL: 88 overall with no less than 21 in Reading, 20 in Listening, 22 in Speaking and 21 in Writing.For Indian Applicants: AAB = 80% ISC, CBSE, Maharashtra or 75% West Bengal or 85% Other State boardsFor US Applicants: 1. A minimum score of 3.2/4.0 GPA on the High School Diploma (HSD) (non-weighted) PLUSApplicants must present three distinct subject tests from any combination of the following: IB Higher Level (HL) subjects, AP exams, Year 11/12 honours courses, full-year college/dual-enrolment classes, or the now-discontinued SAT II Subject Tests.Composite ACT with a score of 28+ to replace one subject test (not accepted to replace a subject requirement.)SAT-R with a score of 1350+ to replace one subject test (not to replace a subject requirement.) (SAT superscores are not accepted)For a course that requires: A levels AAB (A level Mathematics required). This means you could present with an HSD 3.2+, 2 subject test and as A level Mathematics is required AP Calculus BC. ActorDirectorScreenwriterFilm ProducerPlaywrightCinematographerEditorTheatre ManagerDrama TeacherVoice-over ArtistCasting DirectorFilm CriticProduction DesignerStage DesignerScript Supervisor
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University of Birmingham
