Playwriting

Entry requirements

A first degree at second-class level or above (or equivalent) is required.

Additional requirement information

Students without such qualifications may, in some circumstances, be considered for entry if they are deemed to have substantial equivalent qualifications or experience.

Candidates will also be interviewed for a place on this degree.

Months of entry

September

Course content

Why study Playwriting

The UK theatre scene is a world leader in the creation of new plays, showcasing the most exciting voices in drama.

On the MA Playwriting degree, you will learn the building blocks of the dramatic craft and gain practical experience of the London theatre industry, through:

• reading and analyzing the most exciting contemporary scripts
• attending live theatre in London and meeting theatre-makers
• visiting lectures from industry professionals in a range of roles
• experience of theatre research and critical writing
• the Creative Workshop (a dynamic module across two semesters) on which you will create your own full-length thesis play
• insight into the Business of Playwriting and starting your career

Students learn directly from a range of artists working at both ‘fringe’ and more established institutions.

In our current academic year, guest lecturers have worked at venues like the National Theatre, The Old Vic, The Bush, Sheffield Crucible, Manchester Royal Exchange, The Lyric Hammersmith and Headlong. These included:

• Matthew Xia (Director, Actors Touring Company),
• Guy Jones (Director/Dramaturg, Orange Tree Theatre),
• Steve Harper (Literary Manager, Theatre 503)
• Jon Britain (Writer, Rotterdam)
• Chris Bush (Writer, Faustus: That Damned Woman, Standing at the Sky’s Edge)

Students participated in behind-the-scenes visits to venues like the Orange Tree, Hampstead Theatre, and Theatre 503. They gained valuable work experience with literary departments and also conducted research at the National Theatre Archive.

You will complete the course with an invaluable grounding in how the theatre really operates, and gain a headstart in navigating your own writing career.

Why St Mary's

Drama St Mary’s offers a range Drama training programmes at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Our courses aim to offer the very best academic and practical instruction, underpinned by a supportive university environment. The programmes are taught by an experienced team of academics and a collection of professional visiting practitioners.

London is the theatre capital of the world, allowing you to benefit from a diverse variety of theatre and art. The degree expands on our established links with London theatre venues and organisations, giving you the most relevant and up-to-date training.

Information for international students

International students should check our country-specific pages for equivalents. If English is not your first language you will need to achieve an IELTS score of 6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in any section (or equivalent).

We now accept IELTS Indicator test results as proof of your English language level.