Bachelor of Arts (Drama, Theatre, and Performance Studies) at National University of Ireland, Galway

About

Entry Points (2022)

358

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.

Enjoy our introductory video to Bachelor of Arts (Drama, Theatre, and Performance Studies) from our May 2021 Virtual Open Day

Who Teaches this Course

Professor Patrick Lonergan https://www.nuigalway.ie/our-research/people/english-and-creative-arts/patricklonergan/
Dr Charlotte McIvor https://www.nuigalway.ie/our-research/people/charlottemcivor/
Dr Ian R. Walsh https://www.nuigalway.ie/our-research/people/english-and-creative-arts/ianwalsh/
Dr Miriam Haughton https://www.nuigalway.ie/our-research/people/english-and-creative-arts/miriamhaughton/
Marianne Kennedy https://www.nuigalway.ie/our-research/people/english-and-creative-arts/mariannenichinneide/
Mike OHalloran, Technical Manager

Key Facts

Entry Requirements

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.

Duration

4 years

Next start date

September 2022

A Level Grades (2022)

nuigalway.ie/alevels

Average intake

18

QQI/FET FETAC Entry Routes

2 (More Info)

CAO

GY118

Course Outline

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.

Putting Learning into Practice

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.

Partnerships and Archives

Our students benefit from our partnerships with Irish theatre companies, including the internationally acclaimed Druid Theatre, which provide workshops as part of the Druid Academy programme. Students also have full access to Abbey Theatre Digital Archive, a unique resource that provides access to thousands of plays and videos.

Performance Spaces

All classes in Drama and Theatre studies are taught at the ODonoghue Centre for Drama, Theatre and Performance, a dedicated performance space which includes 3 studio spaces and a state-of-the-art 120 seat theatre.

Year 1

In year one you study Drama and Theatre along with two other Arts subjects.

Drama and Theatre Studies modules include

Introduction to Acting
Theatre Histories 1
Introduction to Stagecrafts
Theatre Histories 2

Year 2

In year Two you study Drama and Theatre along with one other Arts subject.

Drama and Theatre Studies modules include:

Modern Drama
Irish Theatre
Stagecrafts 2
Playwriting
Contemporary Theatre
Production Practicum

Year 3

This year is fully dedicated to Drama and Theatre studies.

You choose from a range of optional modules which may include:

International Theatre Experience: Study abroad
Third Year Theatre Production
Work experience
Musical Theatre
Theatre for Children and Young Audiences
Irish Language Drama and Theatre
Acting Reconsidered

Year 4

In year FOUR you study Drama and Theatre along with one other Arts subject.

Drama and Theatre Studies modules include:

Arts Management
Advanced Performance Studies
Contemporary Irish Theatre
Practice Based Research Project

Curriculum Information
Curriculum information relates to the current academic year (in most cases).Course and module offerings and details may be subject to change.

Glossary of Terms

Curriculum Information

Curriculum information relates to the current academic year (in most cases).
Course and module offerings and details may be subject to change.

Glossary of Terms

Credits: You must earn a defined number of credits (aka ECTS) to complete each year of your course. You do this by taking all of its required modules as well as the correct number of optional modules to obtain that year's total number of credits.
Module: An examinable portion of a subject or course, for which you attend lectures and/or tutorials and carry out assignments. E.g. Algebra and Calculus could be modules within the subject Mathematics. Each module has a unique module code eg. MA140.
Subject: Some courses allow you to choose subjects, where related modules are grouped together. Subjects have their own required number of credits, so you must take all that subject's required modules and may also need to obtain the remainder of the subject's total credits by choosing from its available optional modules.
Optional: A module you may choose to study.
Required: A module that you must study if you choose this course (or subject).
Required Core Subject: A subject you must study because it's integral to that course.
Semester: Most courses have 2 semesters (aka terms) per year, so a three-year course will have six semesters in total. For clarity, this page will refer to the first semester of year 2 as 'Semester 3'.

Year 1 (60 Credits)

Optional Subject: Ancient Classics (20 Credits):
Optional CC230: Beginning Latin Part 1 - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Optional CC1101: Mythology and the City in Ancient Greece - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required CC114: Written Words & Spoken Languages in the Ancient World - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required CC1100: Classics in 20 Objects - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Optional CCS205: Ancient Greek for Beginners (Part One) - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Optional CC232: Beginning Latin Part 2 - 5 Credits - Semester 2
Optional CC1102: Empire and Literature in Ancient Rome - 5 Credits - Semester 2
Optional CCS206: Ancient Greek for Beginners (Part Two) - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: Archaeology (20 Credits):
Required AR113: Prehistoric Ireland & Europe - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required AR1104: Material Culture and Museums - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required AR1102: Recording Monuments in the Landscape - 5 Credits - Semester 2
Required AR1105: Medieval Ireland and Europe - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: Celtic Civilisation (20 Credits):
If you choose this subject, you cannot choose International Development.
Required SG1100: Medieval Celtic Literature A - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required SG1101: Medieval Celtic Literature B - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required SG111: Early & Medieval History of the Celts - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required SG116: Celtic Mythology, Religion & Folklore - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Required Core Subject: Drama and Theatre (20 Credits):
Required DT1115: Introduction to Acting - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required DT1108: Theatre Histories 1 - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required DT1109: Theatre Histories 2 - 5 Credits - Semester 2
Required DT1105: Introduction to Stagecraft - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: Economics (20 Credits):
Required EC1108: Skills for Economics I - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required EC135: Principles of Microeconomics - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required EC1109: Skills for Economics II - 5 Credits - Semester 2
Required EC136: Principles of Macroeconomics - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: English (20 Credits):
Required EN124: Introduction to English 1 - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required EN1106: Exploring English - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required EN1101: Literature and the Social World - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Optional EN1102: Exploring English - 1BA and Denominated Programmes - 10 Credits - Semester 1
Required EN125: Introduction to English 2 - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: French (20 Credits):
Required FR1100: Introduction to French Language and Culture - 15 Credits - Semester 1
Required FR1101: Introduction to French Literature in Context - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: Gaeilge (20 Credits):
Required NG1107: ScÃ©al agus Pobal na Gaeilge - 5 Credits - Semester 2
Required NG1105: An Teanga Bheo - 10 Credits - Semester 1
Required NG1106: LitrÃocht agus CultÃºr na Linne - 5 Credits - Semester 1

Optional Subject: Geography/TÃreolaÃocht (20 Credits):
Required TI1100: Geography in Practice - 10 Credits - Semester 1
Required TI150: Principles of Human Geography - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required TI151: Principles of Physical Geography - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: German (Advanced) (20 Credits):
Required GR1100: German Language and Culture (Advanced) - 15 Credits - Semester 1
Required GR1102: Skills for studying German (Advanced) - 5 Credits - Semester 1

Optional Subject: German (Beginners) (20 Credits):
Required GR1101: German Language and Culture (Beginners) - 15 Credits - Semester 1
Required GR1103: Skills for studying German (Beginners) - 5 Credits - Semester 1

Optional Subject: Global Media (20 Credits):
Required AJ1104: Digital Literacy Essentials - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required AJ1100: History of Media - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required AJ1105: Creative Coding and Web Media 101 - 5 Credits - Semester 2
Required AJ1102: Introduction to Media and Communication Studies - 5 Credits - Semester 2
Optional AJ1106: Pop Culture, Media and Society - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: History (20 Credits):
Required HI1103: Europe and Ireland 1789 - 1918 - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required HISK1101: Skills for Historians (1) - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required HI1104: Europe: From Medieval to Modern - 5 Credits - Semester 2
Required HISK1102: Skills for Historians (2) - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: International Development (20 Credits):
If you choose this subject, you cannot choose Law.
If you choose this subject, you cannot choose Psychology.
If you choose this subject, you cannot choose Celtic Civilisation.
Required DEV1103: Introduction to International Development - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required HR101: Introduction to Human Rights I - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required DEV1100: Introduction to Sustainable Development I - 5 Credits - Semester 2
Required HR102: Introduction to Human Rights II - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: Italian (20 Credits):
Required IT1100: Italian Language and Culture - 15 Credits - Semester 1
Required IT1101: Italy at the movies - 5 Credits - Semester 1

Optional Subject: Law (20 Credits):
If you choose this subject, you cannot choose International Development.
Required LW103.I: Irish Legal Systems - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required LW3109: Tort Law - 10 Credits - Semester 1
Required LW126: Legal Skills - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: LÃ©ann na CumarsÃ¡ide (20 Credits):
Required CG1100: ScÃ©alaÃocht Dhigiteach - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required CG1101: Machnamh CriticiÃºil agus LÃ¡ithreoireacht - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required CG1105: BunÃºs na hIriseoireachta - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required CG1104: Na MeÃ¡in agus an tSochaÃ - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Course Outline

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.

Putting Learning into Practice

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.

Partnerships and Archives

Our students benefit from our partnerships with Irish theatre companies, including the internationally acclaimed Druid Theatre, which provide workshops as part of the Druid Academy programme. Students also have full access to Abbey Theatre Digital Archive, a unique resource that provides access to thousands of plays and videos.

Performance Spaces

All classes in Drama and Theatre studies are taught at the ODonoghue Centre for Drama, Theatre and Performance, a dedicated performance space which includes 3 studio spaces and a state-of-the-art 120 seat theatre.

Year 1

In year one you study Drama and Theatre along with two other Arts subjects.

Drama and Theatre Studies modules include

Introduction to Acting
Theatre Histories 1
Introduction to Stagecrafts
Theatre Histories 2

Year 2

In year Two you study Drama and Theatre along with one other Arts subject.

Drama and Theatre Studies modules include:

Modern Drama
Irish Theatre
Stagecrafts 2
Playwriting
Contemporary Theatre
Production Practicum

Year 3

This year is fully dedicated to Drama and Theatre studies.

You choose from a range of optional modules which may include:

International Theatre Experience: Study abroad
Third Year Theatre Production
Work experience
Musical Theatre
Theatre for Children and Young Audiences
Irish Language Drama and Theatre
Acting Reconsidered

Year 4

In year FOUR you study Drama and Theatre along with one other Arts subject.

Drama and Theatre Studies modules include:

Arts Management
Advanced Performance Studies
Contemporary Irish Theatre
Practice Based Research Project

Curriculum Information
Curriculum information relates to the current academic year (in most cases).Course and module offerings and details may be subject to change.

Glossary of Terms

Curriculum Information

Curriculum information relates to the current academic year (in most cases).
Course and module offerings and details may be subject to change.

Glossary of Terms

Credits: You must earn a defined number of credits (aka ECTS) to complete each year of your course. You do this by taking all of its required modules as well as the correct number of optional modules to obtain that year's total number of credits.
Module: An examinable portion of a subject or course, for which you attend lectures and/or tutorials and carry out assignments. E.g. Algebra and Calculus could be modules within the subject Mathematics. Each module has a unique module code eg. MA140.
Subject: Some courses allow you to choose subjects, where related modules are grouped together. Subjects have their own required number of credits, so you must take all that subject's required modules and may also need to obtain the remainder of the subject's total credits by choosing from its available optional modules.
Optional: A module you may choose to study.
Required: A module that you must study if you choose this course (or subject).
Required Core Subject: A subject you must study because it's integral to that course.
Semester: Most courses have 2 semesters (aka terms) per year, so a three-year course will have six semesters in total. For clarity, this page will refer to the first semester of year 2 as 'Semester 3'.

Year 1 (60 Credits)

Optional Subject: Ancient Classics (20 Credits):
Optional CC230: Beginning Latin Part 1 - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Optional CC1101: Mythology and the City in Ancient Greece - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required CC114: Written Words & Spoken Languages in the Ancient World - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required CC1100: Classics in 20 Objects - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Optional CCS205: Ancient Greek for Beginners (Part One) - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Optional CC232: Beginning Latin Part 2 - 5 Credits - Semester 2
Optional CC1102: Empire and Literature in Ancient Rome - 5 Credits - Semester 2
Optional CCS206: Ancient Greek for Beginners (Part Two) - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: Archaeology (20 Credits):
Required AR113: Prehistoric Ireland & Europe - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required AR1104: Material Culture and Museums - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required AR1102: Recording Monuments in the Landscape - 5 Credits - Semester 2
Required AR1105: Medieval Ireland and Europe - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: Celtic Civilisation (20 Credits):
If you choose this subject, you cannot choose International Development.
Required SG1100: Medieval Celtic Literature A - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required SG1101: Medieval Celtic Literature B - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required SG111: Early & Medieval History of the Celts - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required SG116: Celtic Mythology, Religion & Folklore - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Required Core Subject: Drama and Theatre (20 Credits):
Required DT1115: Introduction to Acting - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required DT1108: Theatre Histories 1 - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required DT1109: Theatre Histories 2 - 5 Credits - Semester 2
Required DT1105: Introduction to Stagecraft - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: Economics (20 Credits):
Required EC1108: Skills for Economics I - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required EC135: Principles of Microeconomics - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required EC1109: Skills for Economics II - 5 Credits - Semester 2
Required EC136: Principles of Macroeconomics - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: English (20 Credits):
Required EN124: Introduction to English 1 - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required EN1106: Exploring English - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required EN1101: Literature and the Social World - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Optional EN1102: Exploring English - 1BA and Denominated Programmes - 10 Credits - Semester 1
Required EN125: Introduction to English 2 - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: French (20 Credits):
Required FR1100: Introduction to French Language and Culture - 15 Credits - Semester 1
Required FR1101: Introduction to French Literature in Context - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: Gaeilge (20 Credits):
Required NG1107: ScÃ©al agus Pobal na Gaeilge - 5 Credits - Semester 2
Required NG1105: An Teanga Bheo - 10 Credits - Semester 1
Required NG1106: LitrÃocht agus CultÃºr na Linne - 5 Credits - Semester 1

Optional Subject: Geography/TÃreolaÃocht (20 Credits):
Required TI1100: Geography in Practice - 10 Credits - Semester 1
Required TI150: Principles of Human Geography - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required TI151: Principles of Physical Geography - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: German (Advanced) (20 Credits):
Required GR1100: German Language and Culture (Advanced) - 15 Credits - Semester 1
Required GR1102: Skills for studying German (Advanced) - 5 Credits - Semester 1

Optional Subject: German (Beginners) (20 Credits):
Required GR1101: German Language and Culture (Beginners) - 15 Credits - Semester 1
Required GR1103: Skills for studying German (Beginners) - 5 Credits - Semester 1

Optional Subject: Global Media (20 Credits):
Required AJ1104: Digital Literacy Essentials - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required AJ1100: History of Media - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required AJ1105: Creative Coding and Web Media 101 - 5 Credits - Semester 2
Required AJ1102: Introduction to Media and Communication Studies - 5 Credits - Semester 2
Optional AJ1106: Pop Culture, Media and Society - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: History (20 Credits):
Required HI1103: Europe and Ireland 1789 - 1918 - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required HISK1101: Skills for Historians (1) - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required HI1104: Europe: From Medieval to Modern - 5 Credits - Semester 2
Required HISK1102: Skills for Historians (2) - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: International Development (20 Credits):
If you choose this subject, you cannot choose Law.
If you choose this subject, you cannot choose Psychology.
If you choose this subject, you cannot choose Celtic Civilisation.
Required DEV1103: Introduction to International Development - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required HR101: Introduction to Human Rights I - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required DEV1100: Introduction to Sustainable Development I - 5 Credits - Semester 2
Required HR102: Introduction to Human Rights II - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: Italian (20 Credits):
Required IT1100: Italian Language and Culture - 15 Credits - Semester 1
Required IT1101: Italy at the movies - 5 Credits - Semester 1

Optional Subject: Law (20 Credits):
If you choose this subject, you cannot choose International Development.
Required LW103.I: Irish Legal Systems - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required LW3109: Tort Law - 10 Credits - Semester 1
Required LW126: Legal Skills - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: LÃ©ann na CumarsÃ¡ide (20 Credits):
Required CG1100: ScÃ©alaÃocht Dhigiteach - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required CG1101: Machnamh CriticiÃºil agus LÃ¡ithreoireacht - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required CG1105: BunÃºs na hIriseoireachta - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required CG1104: Na MeÃ¡in agus an tSochaÃ - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: Mathematics (20 Credits):
Optional MA185: Analysis and Algebra 1 - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Optional MA131: Mathematical Skills - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Optional MA133: Analysis and Algebra 1 - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Optional MA187: Mathematical Skills - 5 Credits - Semester 2
Optional MA186: Analysis and Algebra 2 - 5 Credits - Semester 2
Optional MA135: Analysis and Algebra 2 - 5 Credits - Semester 2
Required MA208: Quantitative Techniques for Business - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: Modern Irish Culture Studies: Literature & Music (20 Credits):
Required ISSK1100: Introducing Modern and Contemporary Irish Literature - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required IS1100: Irish Music and Emigration - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required IS1103: Introducing Irish Traditional Music & Dance since 1893 - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required IS1104: The Migrant Experience in Modern Irish Writing - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: Philosophy (20 Credits):
Required PI107: Introduction To The History Of Philosophy - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required PISK1100: Critical Thinking & Persuasive Writing - 5 Credits - Semester 1

Disciplines

Social Sciences

College of Arts

& Celtic Studies

Requirements

Entry Requirements

A-Levels
IB
Recognised NUI Galway Foundation Programme.

Career

Entry Points (2022)

358

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.

Enjoy our introductory video to Bachelor of Arts (Drama, Theatre, and Performance Studies) from our May 2021 Virtual Open Day

Who Teaches this Course

Professor Patrick Lonergan https://www.nuigalway.ie/our-research/people/english-and-creative-arts/patricklonergan/
Dr Charlotte McIvor https://www.nuigalway.ie/our-research/people/charlottemcivor/
Dr Ian R. Walsh https://www.nuigalway.ie/our-research/people/english-and-creative-arts/ianwalsh/
Dr Miriam Haughton https://www.nuigalway.ie/our-research/people/english-and-creative-arts/miriamhaughton/
Marianne Kennedy https://www.nuigalway.ie/our-research/people/english-and-creative-arts/mariannenichinneide/
Mike OHalloran, Technical Manager

Key Facts

Entry Requirements

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.

Duration

4 years

Next start date

September 2022

A Level Grades (2022)

nuigalway.ie/alevels

Average intake

18

QQI/FET FETAC Entry Routes

2 (More Info)

CAO

GY118

Course Outline

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.

Putting Learning into Practice

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.

Partnerships and Archives

Our students benefit from our partnerships with Irish theatre companies, including the internationally acclaimed Druid Theatre, which provide workshops as part of the Druid Academy programme. Students also have full access to Abbey Theatre Digital Archive, a unique resource that provides access to thousands of plays and videos.

Performance Spaces

All classes in Drama and Theatre studies are taught at the ODonoghue Centre for Drama, Theatre and Performance, a dedicated performance space which includes 3 studio spaces and a state-of-the-art 120 seat theatre.

Year 1

In year one you study Drama and Theatre along with two other Arts subjects.

Drama and Theatre Studies modules include

Introduction to Acting
Theatre Histories 1
Introduction to Stagecrafts
Theatre Histories 2

Year 2

In year Two you study Drama and Theatre along with one other Arts subject.

Drama and Theatre Studies modules include:

Modern Drama
Irish Theatre
Stagecrafts 2
Playwriting
Contemporary Theatre
Production Practicum

Year 3

This year is fully dedicated to Drama and Theatre studies.

You choose from a range of optional modules which may include:

International Theatre Experience: Study abroad
Third Year Theatre Production
Work experience
Musical Theatre
Theatre for Children and Young Audiences
Irish Language Drama and Theatre
Acting Reconsidered

Year 4

In year FOUR you study Drama and Theatre along with one other Arts subject.

Drama and Theatre Studies modules include:

Arts Management
Advanced Performance Studies
Contemporary Irish Theatre
Practice Based Research Project

Curriculum Information
Curriculum information relates to the current academic year (in most cases).Course and module offerings and details may be subject to change.

Glossary of Terms

Curriculum Information

Curriculum information relates to the current academic year (in most cases).
Course and module offerings and details may be subject to change.

Glossary of Terms

Credits: You must earn a defined number of credits (aka ECTS) to complete each year of your course. You do this by taking all of its required modules as well as the correct number of optional modules to obtain that year's total number of credits.
Module: An examinable portion of a subject or course, for which you attend lectures and/or tutorials and carry out assignments. E.g. Algebra and Calculus could be modules within the subject Mathematics. Each module has a unique module code eg. MA140.
Subject: Some courses allow you to choose subjects, where related modules are grouped together. Subjects have their own required number of credits, so you must take all that subject's required modules and may also need to obtain the remainder of the subject's total credits by choosing from its available optional modules.
Optional: A module you may choose to study.
Required: A module that you must study if you choose this course (or subject).
Required Core Subject: A subject you must study because it's integral to that course.
Semester: Most courses have 2 semesters (aka terms) per year, so a three-year course will have six semesters in total. For clarity, this page will refer to the first semester of year 2 as 'Semester 3'.

Year 1 (60 Credits)

Optional Subject: Ancient Classics (20 Credits):
Optional CC230: Beginning Latin Part 1 - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Optional CC1101: Mythology and the City in Ancient Greece - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required CC114: Written Words & Spoken Languages in the Ancient World - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required CC1100: Classics in 20 Objects - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Optional CCS205: Ancient Greek for Beginners (Part One) - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Optional CC232: Beginning Latin Part 2 - 5 Credits - Semester 2
Optional CC1102: Empire and Literature in Ancient Rome - 5 Credits - Semester 2
Optional CCS206: Ancient Greek for Beginners (Part Two) - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: Archaeology (20 Credits):
Required AR113: Prehistoric Ireland & Europe - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required AR1104: Material Culture and Museums - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required AR1102: Recording Monuments in the Landscape - 5 Credits - Semester 2
Required AR1105: Medieval Ireland and Europe - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: Celtic Civilisation (20 Credits):
If you choose this subject, you cannot choose International Development.
Required SG1100: Medieval Celtic Literature A - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required SG1101: Medieval Celtic Literature B - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required SG111: Early & Medieval History of the Celts - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required SG116: Celtic Mythology, Religion & Folklore - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Required Core Subject: Drama and Theatre (20 Credits):
Required DT1115: Introduction to Acting - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required DT1108: Theatre Histories 1 - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required DT1109: Theatre Histories 2 - 5 Credits - Semester 2
Required DT1105: Introduction to Stagecraft - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: Economics (20 Credits):
Required EC1108: Skills for Economics I - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required EC135: Principles of Microeconomics - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required EC1109: Skills for Economics II - 5 Credits - Semester 2
Required EC136: Principles of Macroeconomics - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: English (20 Credits):
Required EN124: Introduction to English 1 - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required EN1106: Exploring English - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required EN1101: Literature and the Social World - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Optional EN1102: Exploring English - 1BA and Denominated Programmes - 10 Credits - Semester 1
Required EN125: Introduction to English 2 - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: French (20 Credits):
Required FR1100: Introduction to French Language and Culture - 15 Credits - Semester 1
Required FR1101: Introduction to French Literature in Context - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: Gaeilge (20 Credits):
Required NG1107: ScÃ©al agus Pobal na Gaeilge - 5 Credits - Semester 2
Required NG1105: An Teanga Bheo - 10 Credits - Semester 1
Required NG1106: LitrÃocht agus CultÃºr na Linne - 5 Credits - Semester 1

Optional Subject: Geography/TÃreolaÃocht (20 Credits):
Required TI1100: Geography in Practice - 10 Credits - Semester 1
Required TI150: Principles of Human Geography - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required TI151: Principles of Physical Geography - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: German (Advanced) (20 Credits):
Required GR1100: German Language and Culture (Advanced) - 15 Credits - Semester 1
Required GR1102: Skills for studying German (Advanced) - 5 Credits - Semester 1

Optional Subject: German (Beginners) (20 Credits):
Required GR1101: German Language and Culture (Beginners) - 15 Credits - Semester 1
Required GR1103: Skills for studying German (Beginners) - 5 Credits - Semester 1

Optional Subject: Global Media (20 Credits):
Required AJ1104: Digital Literacy Essentials - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required AJ1100: History of Media - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required AJ1105: Creative Coding and Web Media 101 - 5 Credits - Semester 2
Required AJ1102: Introduction to Media and Communication Studies - 5 Credits - Semester 2
Optional AJ1106: Pop Culture, Media and Society - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: History (20 Credits):
Required HI1103: Europe and Ireland 1789 - 1918 - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required HISK1101: Skills for Historians (1) - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required HI1104: Europe: From Medieval to Modern - 5 Credits - Semester 2
Required HISK1102: Skills for Historians (2) - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: International Development (20 Credits):
If you choose this subject, you cannot choose Law.
If you choose this subject, you cannot choose Psychology.
If you choose this subject, you cannot choose Celtic Civilisation.
Required DEV1103: Introduction to International Development - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required HR101: Introduction to Human Rights I - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required DEV1100: Introduction to Sustainable Development I - 5 Credits - Semester 2
Required HR102: Introduction to Human Rights II - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: Italian (20 Credits):
Required IT1100: Italian Language and Culture - 15 Credits - Semester 1
Required IT1101: Italy at the movies - 5 Credits - Semester 1

Optional Subject: Law (20 Credits):
If you choose this subject, you cannot choose International Development.
Required LW103.I: Irish Legal Systems - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required LW3109: Tort Law - 10 Credits - Semester 1
Required LW126: Legal Skills - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: LÃ©ann na CumarsÃ¡ide (20 Credits):
Required CG1100: ScÃ©alaÃocht Dhigiteach - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required CG1101: Machnamh CriticiÃºil agus LÃ¡ithreoireacht - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required CG1105: BunÃºs na hIriseoireachta - 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required CG1104: Na MeÃ¡in agus an tSochaÃ - 5 Credits - S

Fee Information

Tuition Fee

EUR 18,620 / year

How to Apply

Irish, UK and EU Undergraduate Applications

For full details on the undergraduate admission procedure and entry requirements please refer to the Undergraduate Admissions Office webpage.

How do I apply for an Undergraduate Course?

You can apply online to the Central Applications Office (CAO) on the CAO Web site
You can submit a paper application which you can download from the CAO Web site

Where do I submit my paper application?

You can send your paper application to the following postal address:

The Central Applications Office
Tower House, Eglinton Street, Galway
T: 353 91 509800
E: www.cao.ie

Important CAO dates to remember:

There are three closing dates for applications.

Normal application: 1 February.
Late applications: 1 May (Late applications may NOT be made by those applying on 1 or for entry to Medicine).
Change of mind: 1 July.

If you are submitting a non-standard application (an entry on page three of the application form), you should submit it to the CAO Office by the 1 February.

Further information on Undergraduate Admission is available from the Undergraduate Admissions Office.

Further information on Undergraduate entrance Scholarships:www.nuigalway.ie/admissions/scholarships/index.html.

Learn More

Download CAO application form and handbook

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

National University of Ireland, Galway

National University of Ireland, Galway

Key Facts

Start & Deadlines