Performance: Writing

Entry requirements

The standard entry requirements for this course are as follows:

An honours degree or an equivalent EU/international qualification.

AP(E)L – Accreditation of Prior (Experiential) Learning

Exceptionally applicants who do not meet these course entry requirements may still be considered. The course team will consider each application that demonstrates additional strengths and alternative evidence. This might, for example, be demonstrated by:

• Related academic or work experience
• The quality of the personal statement
• A strong academic or other professional reference

Or a combination of these factors.

Each application will be considered on its own merit but cannot guarantee an offer in each case.

Months of entry

September

Course content

MA Performance: Writing focuses on the craft and technical aspects of dramatic writing. It offers training and support, allowing you to develop your own unique writing voice. The course is concerned with the production of text for performance and how writers can find an audience for their work in an ever-changing landscape. It explores the art of script writing through the prism of an intensely competitive UK and global industry.

The course engages with tradition and innovation in dramatic writing across contemporary theatre, radio, television, film and digital media. The course contributes to debates relating to scriptwriting, script development and script production. You will explore what constitutes dramatic writing and critically analyse convention and form. Teaching on the course acknowledges the key similarities and divergences across different forms of storytelling – for stage, screen, audio and digital platforms. It focuses on character-driven writing which engages an audience in narrative storytelling.

The course structure is student-centred, tailoring learning to your own interests wherever possible. It will also encourage you to embrace your own cultural identity and perspective in scripted form and value your independence as a critically alert creative author. Throughout MA Performance: Writing, you will produce a portfolio of diverse writing to showcase your talents to the profession. The course will teach you to work with creativity and focus in a wide range of contexts after graduation.

Information for international students

IELTS level 7.0 or above, with at least 6.0 in reading, writing, listening and speaking (please check our main English language requirements webpage).

Fees and funding