Drama and Education BA

Drama and Education explores how theatre and performance can be used as tools for learning, communication, and social development. It combines drama, acting, and creative arts with teaching theory, child development, and educational practice.

A Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Drama and Education prepares students to use performance, storytelling, and creative expression to inspire and educate others. It offers both theoretical and practical training, leading to careers in teaching, community arts, or applied theatre.

Why Study Drama and Education?

There are many reasons why students choose to study Drama and Education:

• A passion for performance, creativity, and working with people.

  
  

• The opportunity to explore how drama enhances learning and social engagement.

  
  

• A mix of theatre practice and educational theory.

  
  

• Pathways into teaching, youth work, or community engagement.

  
  

• Development of confidence, leadership, and communication skills.

  
  

• Strong employability in arts, education, and social sectors.

This degree suits students who are expressive, empathetic, and interested in how performance can support education, wellbeing, and personal development.

Course Duration and Structure

In the UK, a BA in Drama and Education typically takes three years of full-time study, or four years with a placement year, foundation year, or study abroad option.

A typical course structure includes:

Year 1: Introduction to drama, performance, and education studies. Students explore acting, directing, and creative learning methods.

Year 2: Intermediate modules in applied theatre, pedagogy, and community arts. Students gain experience designing workshops and leading groups.

Year 3: Advanced study in drama education, curriculum design, and research methods. The final year includes a dissertation or applied project involving performance or educational practice.

Many programmes include placements in schools, youth theatres, or community organisations.

Entry Requirements

Entry requirements vary between universities but typically include one of the following:

• A Levels: In Drama, Theatre Studies, English, or Performing Arts.

  
  

• BTEC: A relevant Extended Diploma in Performing Arts, Creative Media, or Education.

  
  

• International Baccalaureate (IB): Including Theatre, English, or a Humanities subject.

  
  

• Other qualifications: Access to Higher Education Diploma in Performing Arts, Humanities, or Education.

  
  

• Audition or portfolio: Most universities require a performance or creative submission.

  
  

• English language proficiency: Required for applicants whose first language is not English.

Experience in acting, teaching, or youth work is advantageous.

Teaching and Assessment

Drama and Education degrees combine academic study with creative performance and practical teaching experience. Students learn through:

• Lectures and seminars

  
  

• Drama workshops and rehearsals

  
  

• Teaching placements and outreach projects

  
  

• Group performances and devised theatre

  
  

• Independent research and dissertation work

Assessment methods typically include:

• Coursework and reflective journals

  
  

• Practical performances and workshop delivery

  
  

• Group presentations and case studies

  
  

• Examinations and essays

  
  

• A final dissertation or creative project

Courses often involve collaboration with schools, theatre companies, or community arts organisations.

Skills You Will Develop

A degree in Drama and Education develops a wide range of creative, educational, and interpersonal skills, including:

• Acting, directing, and performance techniques

  
  

• Workshop and lesson planning

  
  

• Communication and presentation

  
  

• Leadership and teamwork

  
  

• Creativity and problem-solving

  
  

• Educational theory and pedagogy

  
  

• Reflective practice and research

  
  

• Empathy and emotional intelligence

These skills are valuable for careers in education, arts, and public engagement.

Career Prospects

Graduates of Drama and Education degrees are well-prepared for creative and educational careers.

Typical career paths include:

• Drama teacher (with PGCE or QTS)

  
  

• Performing arts instructor or facilitator

  
  

• Theatre in education practitioner

  
  

• Community arts leader or youth worker

  
  

• Applied theatre specialist

  
  

• Creative learning or outreach coordinator

  
  

• Actor, writer, or theatre producer

  
  

• Further study in education, drama therapy, or performing arts

  
  

Employers include schools, theatre companies, community organisations, and arts education charities.

Tips for Prospective Students

• Gain experience working with young people or community groups.

  
  

• Attend live theatre and explore different performance styles.

  
  

• Develop confidence in public speaking and group facilitation.

  
  

• Volunteer with drama workshops, youth projects, or educational programmes.

  
  

• Join professional organisations such as National Drama or Drama UK.

  
  

• Keep a reflective journal of creative ideas and teaching experiences.

Course Variations

Universities offer several related and specialist degrees, including:

Drama, Theatre and Performance: Emphasising creative and practical skills.

Drama Therapy (postgraduate): Using performance as a therapeutic tool.

Recommended Wider Reading for Aspiring Drama and Education Students

For those considering or beginning a degree in Drama and Education, the following books and resources provide valuable background and inspiration:

“Teaching Drama: The Essential Handbook” by Denver Casado and Matthew Webster – A practical guide to drama teaching.

“Drama Techniques in Language Learning” by Alan Maley and Alan Duff – Integrating performance into education.

“Drama for Learning” by Dorothy Heathcote and Gavin Bolton – A foundational text on educational drama.

“Theatre in Education: New Horizons” by Tony Jackson – Insight into drama’s role in learning and social change.

National Drama – UK association supporting drama educators.

Drama UK – Professional organisation for drama and performing arts education.

The Arts Council England – Resources and funding for arts education initiatives.