BA Drama and English Literature

The BA Drama and English Literature program at the University of Manchester offers an exciting blend of practical theatre experience and in-depth literary study. Students get the chance to work on hands-on projects, collaborate closely with peers, and make full use of modern, well-equipped facilities to develop their skills. The curriculum emphasizes learning by doing, ensuring that theoretical knowledge is always paired with real-world experience.

Experiential Learning Opportunities:

Performance Spaces: Students have access to the John Thaw Studio Theatre, a versatile performance space with seating for 150, perfect for experimenting with different styles of theatre. The Cosmo Rodewald Concert Hall provides an acoustically designed auditorium seating up to 350, ideal for larger-scale performances.

Rehearsal and Production Facilities: The program offers workshops, rehearsal rooms, and screening spaces, along with sound and video-editing suites, giving students all the tools they need to prepare and refine their performances.

Specialized Libraries: The Lenagan Library is dedicated to performing arts and offers an extensive collection of resources that support both academic study and creative projects.

Community Engagement: Students can participate in the Theatre in Prisons and Probation (TiPP) course unit, gaining hands-on experience in applied theatre and learning how drama can make a real impact in the community.

Cultural Assets: The program encourages exploration of Manchester’s rich cultural scene, including the Whitworth Art Gallery, the John Rylands Library, and the Manchester Museum, all of which provide inspiring resources and collections that enhance learning.

Through these experiences, students don’t just study drama and literature—they actively create and perform it, building the skills and confidence needed for a wide range of careers in the arts and humanities.

Graduates of the BA Drama and English Literature program at the University of Manchester emerge ready for a variety of creative and media-focused careers. Many go on to roles such as Theatre Practitioner, Film Critic, Broadcast Media Producer, or Drama Educator, leveraging the program’s combination of performance, screen studies, and literary analysis:

• University Services: The Manchester Careers Service offers tailored advice, workshops, and one-to-one sessions to help students secure internships and graduate roles in the creative industries.

• Employment Stats & Salary: Graduates typically enter professional roles in the arts, media, and education sectors, with starting salaries often ranging from £22,000 to £30,000, depending on the career path.

• University–Industry Partnerships: The program maintains links with local theatres, production companies, and media organizations, providing opportunities for work placements and real-world project experience.

• Accreditation Value: The degree is recognized for its academic rigour and professional relevance, offering long-term credibility in creative industries worldwide.

• Graduation Outcomes: Alumni have successfully pursued careers in theatre, media, publishing, education, and cultural organizations, demonstrating the versatile skills gained during the degree.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates can build on their studies through postgraduate programs such as MA Drama, MA Creative Writing, MA Film Studies, or Teaching Qualifications to deepen expertise, specialize in creative practice, or prepare for educational roles.