Dramatherapist : Entry requirements

In order to practise, dramatherapists must have completed a postgraduate qualification that is approved by the British Association of Dramatherapists and be registered with the Health Professions Council (HPC) .

Postgraduate courses in dramatherapy leading to eligibility for registration are provided by Roehampton University, the University of Derby, the Iron Mill Institute and Anglia Ruskin University. Details of courses are available from the British Association of Dramatherapists (BADth)  website.

Entry requirements for one of the relevant postgraduate courses usually include a degree in drama or a psychological health subject. The universities also usually require the candidate to have significant relevant experience, paid or voluntary with people with specific needs, as well as have experience in practical drama work.

Whilst each course has its own focus, areas covered include: practical and experiential work; psychological theories; group and individual dramatherapy; knowledge of related arts therapies; personal therapy/development; and clinical practice. Most courses provide opportunities for clinical placements in a range of settings. It is important to check with individual course providers about specific placement provision and support, as well as the focus of the course and the approach taken to dramatherapy.

All students are expected to undergo and fund personal therapy during training.

Some universities, such as Derby, Exeter and Roehampton, offer a one-year top-up Masters course for those candidates who have a PG Dip in Dramatherapy.

It may be possible to get onto a course without a relevant degree if you have a relevant professional qualification in an area such as teaching, nursing, psychology or social work.

Candidates need to show evidence of the following:

• an expressive, creative and spontaneous work style;
• the ability to adapt to different clients or group members, locations and situations;
• a good level of emotional strength and the ability to deal with challenging situations;
• a thorough knowledge of drama and theatre and good performance skills;
• a commitment to clients' wellbeing and to continually improving professional practice.

The majority of students are in their late 20s or 30s because of the level of experience required before starting training.

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.