Bachelor of Arts (Drama, Theatre, and Performance Studies)

Course Overview

The BA degree in Drama, Theatre and Performance Studies is an exciting 4 year denominated programme developed for students with a keen interest in all aspects of drama and performance, including all forms of theatre practice.

This world-class programme provides a unique opportunity to study drama, theatre and performance from a practical, theoretical and historical perspective. You will explore all aspects of theatre, including acting, directing, playwriting, design and more. There are also specialised classes in such areas as Musical Theatre, Theatre for Children and Young Audiences, and Arts Management. Teaching on the programme will take a variety of forms, from lectures and seminars to practical workshops, performances and internships.

One of the most innovative features of the programme is its emphasis on putting learning into practice, through seminars in acting, design and directing, through workshops with professional theatre companies, and through the option of internships with arts organisations and professional placements in Year Three.

Minimum Grade H5 in two subjects and passes in four other subjects at O6/H7 level in the Leaving Certificate, including Irish, English, another language, and three other subjects recognised for entry purposes. No audition or portfolio required as part of the admissions process.

• Creative Industries are one of Ireland’s greatest international strengths
• Builds key skills – presentations, group work, writing, improvisation
• Small classes
• Theatre- Makers – our graduates are theatre-makers who have a broad range of skills in all areas of theatre including acting, directing, design, playwriting, devising, performance analysis. This makes our graduates more versatile, employable, and entrepreneurial.
• O’Donoghue Centre for Drama, Theatre and Performance: state of the art facilities including 3 x studio spaces and a 120-seat theatre.
• Opportunities to be in productions, behind the scenes and on stage
• Partnerships: Druid, Galway International Arts Festival, Abbey theatre, Gate theatre and more
• A four-year degree (including optional work placements and study abroad)
• Strong international links
• Theatre archives, including Abbey Theatre Digital Archives, Gate Theatre Digital Archives and other resources including Drama Online a database with hundreds of playscripts and Digital Theatre + and National Theatre Live, databases with videos of major productions.