Enter OTP
The BA Theatre and Film at the University of Bristol is a joint honours degree combining the study of theatre and film, blending critical, historical, and contextual analysis with practical, hands-on experience. This program is ideal for creative students who want to explore performance and filmmaking while engaging with industry-standard practices and professional networks.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1: Students are introduced to the foundations of theatre and film through lectures, seminars, and workshops. They develop practical skills and learn to analyse performance across stage and screen, studying units such as Introduction to Theatre Studies and Film and Television Fundamentals.
Year 2: The focus shifts to deeper exploration of historical movements, contemporary practices, and theoretical frameworks. Students can choose from units including Performance Analysis, Film Production, and Contemporary Theatre Practice, allowing them to refine their creative and analytical skills.
Year 3: The final year centres on independent or collaborative projects, which may include performances, short films, dissertations, or industrial placements. Units such as Advanced Theatre Project and Independent Film Production enable students to showcase their expertise and prepare for professional practice.
Focus Areas: Theatre history, performance practice, film production, critical analysis, screenwriting, industry engagement
Learning Outcomes: Develop professional-level creative and analytical skills, understand historical and contemporary practices, produce original performance or film work, and engage effectively with industry networks
Professional Alignment (Accreditation): Strong industry links with theatres, arts centres, and media companies; access to the Theatre Collection archive
Reputation (Employability Rankings): Recognised for high employability and strong performance in UK creative arts rankings, reflecting Bristol’s national and international standing in theatre and film education
At the University of Bristol, the BA Theatre and Film program offers students a rich blend of practical and theoretical learning, allowing them to develop both performance and analytical skills. Students gain hands-on experience through workshops, seminars, and collaborative projects that span theatre, film, and television. The program is designed to immerse students in the creative industries while providing access to specialized facilities and resources that enhance learning and skill development.
Students can explore historical and contemporary practices, engage with industry professionals, and use the university’s museum-accredited Theatre Collection. There are opportunities for group projects, independent studies, and industry placements, ensuring that graduates leave with practical experience and a professional portfolio.
Experiential learning opportunities include:
Access to the Theatre Collection, a museum-accredited archive for research and practice-based learning.
Hands-on workshops and seminars covering stage and screen performance techniques.
Group and individual projects, including short films, performances, and dissertations.
Opportunities for industrial placements and engagement with theatre companies, arts centres, and media organisations.
Use of specialized studios and performance spaces for rehearsals and productions.
Collaboration with industry professionals through guest lectures, masterclasses, and networking events.
Exposure to digital tools and equipment relevant to theatre and film production.
Independent research and creative projects in your final year, tailored to career interests.
This combination of practical experience, professional engagement, and access to unique resources equips students to confidently pursue careers in theatre, film, and media industries.
Graduates of the BA Theatre and Film at the University of Bristol leave with a rich blend of practical skills and critical understanding, ready to pursue dynamic careers in the arts and media. Many find roles as theatre practitioners, film production assistants, or arts administrators:
University Career Services: The Bristol Careers Service offers tailored support including CV workshops, mock interviews, and one-to-one career coaching specific to theatre, film, and media industries.
Employment stats & salary: A significant proportion of graduates move into creative roles within 6 months of graduation, with typical starting salaries ranging from £22,000 to £28,000 depending on role and sector.
University–Industry Partnerships: Students benefit from strong connections with local theatres, arts centres, and media companies, plus access to the museum-accredited Theatre Collection for research and practical projects.
Long-term accreditation value: The degree is highly regarded in the creative sector, ensuring credibility and strong professional recognition for future opportunities.
Graduation outcomes: Graduates pursue careers in acting, film production, theatre management, arts journalism, and related creative fields, leveraging both practical experience and academic insight.
Further Academic Progression:
Graduates wishing to continue their studies can explore postgraduate programmes in Theatre, Film, Media, or Performing Arts, including master's degrees and research-focused opportunities. Options include specializations in film production, directing, theatre studies, or arts management, enabling advanced expertise and broader career pathways.
A-level: AABIB: 34 points overall with 17 at Higher LevelGCSE English Language grade B or 6IELTS 7.0 overall with 7.0 in writing and 6.5 in all other skillsTOEFL: 95 overall with R22, L21, S23, W24For Indian Applicants: Typical offers for CBSE and CISCE range from 80% (equivalent to ABB at A-level) to 90% (equivalent to A*AA at A-level). CBSE or CISCE English at 70-80% or above can be accepted in lieu of another English test such as IELTS.For US Applicants: high school diploma (or equivalent) with a GPA of 3.2 and three additional qualifications, which can be any of the following: SAT (evidence-based reading and writing section only) with a minimum of 650 or ACT with a minimum score of 28 / AP Tests with a score of at least 4 (more commonly 5) AP classes, taken over two semesters in Grade 11 or Grade 12 / Honors level classes taken in both semesters in Grade 12. If your school does not call advanced courses 'Honors', we will need official confirmation of the level of your Honors course from your school or the school profileDual enrolment/ college courses / IB Higher Level courses / A Levels ActorDirectorProducerScreenwriterPlaywrightStage ManagerFilm EditorCinematographerDrama TeacherTheatre CriticCasting DirectorProduction DesignerVoice-over ArtistEvent CoordinatorArts Administrator
Embark on your educational journey with confidence! Our team of admission experts is here to guide you through the process. Book a free session now to receive personalized advice, assistance with applications, and insights into your dream school. Whether you're applying to college, graduate school, or specialized programs, we're here to help you succeed.
University of Bristol
