BA (Hons) Drama with a Year Abroad
Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Bachelor of Arts
- UCAS Course Code
- W40A
- Typical Offer
- ABB
- Contextual Offer
- BBC
- Course Length
- 4 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2027
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Course Overview
Why BA Drama with a Year Abroad at UEA?
Explore your creativity while developing practical and critical skills in a collaborative, professional theatre environment. You’ll be challenged to rethink performance, storytelling, and the world around you while studying in vibrant Norwich.
Why choose UEA?
- Flexible studies: Specialise in acting, theatre-making, or technical theatre, or combine all three to shape your degree
- Practical training: Gain hands-on experience in a professional Drama Studio and with our student-run Minotaur Theatre Company
- Professional experience: Create and stage a fully resourced, industry-standard theatre production in your final year
What is BA Drama with a Year Abroad?
Study theatre from around the world alongside theory, actor and director training, and methods for creating original work. You’ll explore contemporary theatre while developing your own performance practice and understanding drama as an artform and cultural tool.
Teaching blends practical workshops with critical and historical study, helping you grow as a creative practitioner and independent thinker.
You’ll learn from expert staff who are active artists and researchers, building skills in collaboration, critical thinking, and creative practice.
You’ll work in UEA’s professional Drama Studio and can get involved with the student-run Minotaur Theatre Company. These experiences will help you build performance, technical, or writing skills in a supportive creative environment.
Your third year will be spent abroad at one of our exciting overseas partner universities before returning to UEA to complete your degree.
Studying in Norwich also connects you to a rich local arts scene, including Norwich Theatre, Norwich Arts Centre and Maddermarket Theatre. You’ll benefit from regular performances, events, and strong industry links throughout your studies.
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Year Abroad
This four-year course includes the option to study abroad in your third year at a partner university teaching your subject in English. Destinations include Japan, Hong Kong, Australia, Europe, Latin America, Canada, and the USA.
Studying abroad broadens your academic and social horizons while building your confidence and communication skills. It also adds valuable international experience to your CV, helping you stand out to employers.
Available destinations vary each year, so flexibility in your preferences is important. You’ll need an overall average of 55% in years one and two to study abroad. If you choose not to go abroad, you can also transfer to the three-year degree at any time.
For more details, check out study abroad.
Careers
Career Pathways
With a BA in Drama, you could launch a career as a:
- Actor: Perform on stage, screen or radio, bringing characters and stories to life for live and broadcast audiences
- Director: Shape the creative vision of a production and leading collaborative teams of performers and designers
- Writer: Develop scripts, dialogue and narratives for theatre, film, television, audio or digital media
- Casting Director: Identify and select performers for theatre, film and television productions
- Theatre-maker: Lead your own theatre company, programming work and steering its creative and strategic direction
Career Support
You’ll be supported throughout your degree by UEA’s award-winning Careers Service, which offers guidance on CV writing, applications, internships and professional development.
You’ll also have opportunities to build experience through practical work in the Drama Studio, involvement with the Minotaur Theatre Company, and initiatives such as the in-house student publishing project Egg Box. Each year, the Working with Words event connects you with successful UEA alumni across the creative industries, helping you build networks, gain insight into different career paths, and prepare confidently for life after graduation.
Discover more on our Careers webpages.
After the Course
UEA BA Drama with a Year Abroad has an outstanding track record for career prospects. After graduation, you’ll be equipped with a versatile creative skillset that can lead directly into careers in theatre, film, television or radio – whether as a performer, writer, director, developer, agent or producer. Equally, your experience in collaboration, communication and critical thinking will leave you well placed to move into fields such as arts and media, publishing, teaching, politics, charities, NGOs or the commercial sector.
Study and Modules
Structure
In your first year, you'll begin your training in technical theatre, allowing you to work independently in the Drama Studio throughout the rest of your degree. You’ll develop your on-stage skills through actor- and performer-training and will learn how to make your own collaborative theatre projects. This will be enriched by your study of theatre and performance from across history and around the world, where you’ll learn about different theatre traditions, exciting writers, and innovative theatre companies.
Compulsory Modules
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Structure
In your second year, you'll deepen your understanding and develop your practical, creative, and professional skills. You'll learn about the theatre industries and the creative industries more widely, the range of work done in theatre both within and outside of traditional theatre buildings, and how theatre is funded, programmed, and advertised. You may also take up an internship with a professional venue or company and focus intensively on your performance or practical skills. You’ll have the option to explore directing and develop your technique in acting. Other options allow you to study drama from the traditional repertoire, like Shakespeare, right up to new, cutting-edge contemporary theatre, popular performance, filmmaking, or technical theatre. You can also try your hand at scriptwriting, under the supervision of our leading creative writers or branch out into other literature or writing modules.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 80, Max Credits: 100)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Structure
You'll spend your third year studying abroad at one of our many exciting partner institutions across the globe. This is a brilliant opportunity to experience living in another country, see how your subject and others are studied there, develop greater confidence and enhanced communication skills, and gain experiences that’ll help your CV stand out to employers.
Check out Study Abroad to learn more.
Compulsory Modules
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Structure
In the final year, you'll engage with advanced practical and theoretical study, exploring the intersection of identity and performance, learning about experimental and bold practice or honing your work as an actor. If you wish, you may write a dissertation, which can be an extended piece of critical analysis or an original script. The last year of your drama degree brings together all the skills you’ve developed so far in a major production in the Studio. You and your peers will work together on all aspects of the production process, from the earliest planning stages, through rehearsal and publicity, to taking your final bow.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 30, Max Credits: 60)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 30)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning, and Assessment
Teaching and Learning
You’ll learn through a rich blend of practical workshops, rehearsals, seminars, technical classes and independent study. Teaching is highly interactive and studio-based, giving you frequent opportunities to experiment, collaborate and make work, while also developing your understanding of theatre history and theory. You’ll be supported by experienced practitioner academics, visiting artists, and an academic adviser who oversees your progress across the degree, alongside wider university student support services.
In year one, teaching will combine seminars and workshops, blending academic study with applied practice.
In year two, you’ll continue your learning through workshops and seminars, but teaching becomes more mentorship-led, with specialist guidance from practising filmmakers, writers and theatre-makers as you create more of your own work.
While studying abroad, you’ll usually take at least half of your modules in your main subject area. You may also explore other subjects, depending on the topics offered by your host university.
In your final year, teaching revolves around advanced performance study and a major ensemble production, where you’ll work like a professional company under the leadership of a core staff member and industry mentors. You’ll also undertake more self-directed projects that draw together everything you’ve learned across your degree.
Assessment
Assessment is mainly practical and coursework-based, with no traditional exams, except for a technical theatre test. You’ll be assessed through performances, creative projects, technical tasks, reflective work, and academic essays. Regular feedback supports your development throughout the course.
In year one, assessment includes set models, costume designs, sound work, performances, essays, and reflective writing.
In year two, assessment continues through practical work, alongside written and creative assignments.
On your year abroad, assessments will depend on your host university. You'll need to pass the year, but your marks don’t count towards your final degree classification. In the unlikely event you didn’t pass, reassessment options are available at UEA.
In your final year, you’ll complete performance reflections, essays, scripts, or a creative or critical dissertation. Your final production is assessed through rehearsals, technical work, and performance.
Entry Requirements
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at minimum grade C or grade 4.
In place of Mathematics GCSE we can also consider Functional Skills Level 2 Mathematics.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies(opens in a new window) page.
- Contextual Offers
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes(opens in a new window).
- Typical UK Entry Requirements
A levels
ABB
Contextual offer: BBC
BTEC
Level 3 Extended Diploma: DDM
Contextual offer: DMM
BTEC in Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration are all excluded from our BTEC offers.
Access to HE Diploma
Access to Humanities and Social Sciences Pathway. Pass Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 30 credits at Level 3 and Merit in 15 credits at Level 3.
Contextual offer: Access to Humanities and Social Sciences Pathway. Pass the Access to HE Diploma with Merit in 30 credits at Level 3 and pass in 15 credits at Level 3.
T levels
Merit.
Foundation Year options:
If you do not meet the academic requirements for direct entry, you may be interested in one of our Foundation Year programmes such as BA Drama with a Foundation Year(opens in a new window)
- Further Examples of Typical Entry Requirements
International Baccalaureate
32 points overall
Irish Leaving Certificate
3 subjects at H2, 3 subjects at H3
Scottish Highers
AAABB
A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable.
Scottish Advanced Highers
BCC.
A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable.
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- Progression
Once enrolled onto a course at UEA, your progression and continuation (which may include eligibility for study abroad, overseas experience, placement, or year in industry opportunities) is contingent on meeting the assessment requirements which are relevant to the course on which you are enrolled.
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at minimum grade C or grade 4.
In place of Mathematics GCSE we can also consider Functional Skills Level 2 Mathematics.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies(opens in a new window) page.
- Typical International Entry Requirements
A levels
ABB
International Baccalaureate
32 points overall
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. For specific details about your country, view our information for International Students(opens in a new window).
- UEA International Study Centre
If you do not meet the academic and/or English language requirements for direct entry our partner, UEA International Study Centre offers progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme. Depending on your interests, and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree.
- English Foreign Language
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):
-
IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components)
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies(opens in a new window) for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
Test dates should be within two years of the course start date.
If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, UEA International Study Centre offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study:
-
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- Progression
Once enrolled onto a course at UEA, your progression and continuation (which may include eligibility for study abroad, overseas experience, placement, or year in industry opportunities) is contingent on meeting the assessment requirements which are relevant to the course on which you are enrolled.
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Fees and Funding
Tuition fees for the Academic Year 2027/28 are:
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UK Students: £10,050
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International Students: £24,250
We estimate living expenses at £1,171 per month.
Further Information on tuition fees can be found here(opens in a new window).
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that costs do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds. View our range of Scholarships(opens in a new window) for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course Related Costs
Please see additional course fees for details of course-related costs.
How to Apply
UCAS Hub is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom.
Your application does not have to be completed all at once. Register or sign in to UCAS to get started.
Once you submit your completed application, UCAS will process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The Institution code for the University of East Anglia is E14.
View our guide to applying through UCAS for useful tips, key dates and further information: