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Theatre & Performance Studies

York St. John University
Degree MA
Duration 12 months
Delivery On-campus
Location York, United Kingdom
Language English

Program Overview

The Theatre & Performance Studies at York St. John University is a MA programme in Arts & Design over 12 months, delivered On-campus. This programme equips graduates with advanced knowledge and practical skills for professional and academic careers in the field.

Students gain a rigorous grounding in both the theoretical foundations and applied dimensions of arts & design. The programme combines coursework, research components, and practical projects that develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and specialist expertise relevant to industry and research needs.

Graduates of the Theatre & Performance Studies programme are well-prepared for careers in academia, industry, government, and the private sector across United Kingdom and internationally. The programme provides an internationally recognised qualification within the Bologna higher education framework.

Key Program Features

  1. Duration: 12 months
  2. Language of instruction: English
  3. Study mode: On-campus
  4. Location: York, United Kingdom

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Theatre & Performance Studies programme are prepared for diverse careers in arts & design:

  1. Creative Director
  2. Graphic / UX Designer
  3. Art Director
  4. Curator
  5. Visual Artist
  6. Media Producer

Program Curriculum

How you will study

You can study this postgraduate course full time or part time. This allows you to fit your studies around other commitments.

If you choose to study full time the course will take 1 year to complete. You will study:

  • 2 compulsory modules and 1 optional module (1 of which is the year long Independent Project module)

If you choose to study part time the course will take 2 years to complete and the modules will be split across both years.

The Independent Project module is carried across the whole of the course for both modes of study.

You can find out which modules are available in each semester on the Course Specifications.

Modules

Credits: 30

Compulsory module

Reflective practice is a fundamental part of artistic development. As emerging artists, makers, and producers, you need to creatively work within relevant fields and professional contexts. On this module, you'll learn from established artists’ practices across a variety of disciplines. Delving into their work should broaden your understanding of what is possible. It will also lead you to discover the range of ways artistic practices relate to contemporary socio-political landscapes. You'll discover and identify your artistic values and intentions and develop theatre making autonomy.

Credits: 30

Optional module

Develop the skills needed to practice a variety of theatre making strategies, as well as reflecting on the dramaturgical aspects inherent in the creative process. You will engage with a variety of contemporary approaches to composition, resulting in an assessed performance. This is your opportunity to explore different methods, such as improvisation, performance writing and dramaturgy. The piece can be solo work or collaborative practice. Your role will develop as a creator, author or co-creator or co- author of the material produced.

Credits: 30

Optional module

This is an opportunity to develop new skills, techniques and knowledge in applied and socially engaged theatre. You will make work with, and for, diverse communities in different social contexts, while extending your individual practice and professional profile. The focus will be on building your skills and knowledge around composition, facilitation and applied theatre making.

Credits: 30

Compulsory module

Developing a successful career in the creative industries requires certain skills and the application of specific knowledge. Working with your tutors and guest speakers, you'll discover what it takes to thrive in the arts and media sectors as cultural agents of change. Visiting professionals will work with you to develop your understanding of pitching, funding applications and getting programmed for festivals. You'll demonstrate the knowledge gained on this module

Admission Requirements

Academic Requirements

Entry requirements vary from course to course so you need to check the individual course pages on our website for full details.

All programmes require you to hold an English language qualification. This is usually GCSE at Grade C (or above) or an equivalent accepted by York St John University. If you hold a GCSE equivalent qualification, please check with Admission that it is accepted before applying.

For international applicants, an IELTS qualification or another York St John University accepted English Language qualification is required. The IELTS grade requirement for each course is listed on the individual course page.

For some programmes, particular relevant previous experience is a prerequisite for an application to be successful. In some instances you may need to be working in a particular environment or have access to a specified client group.

Tuition & Financial Information

Detailed tuition information is not available. Please contact the university for the most current tuition and fee information.

Application Deadline

Please contact the university for application deadline information.

About York St. John University

York St. John University logo

York St. John University

York, United Kingdom

York St John University is a modern, student-focused institution located in the historic city of York, United Kingdom. With origins dating back to 1841, the university has evolved into a vibrant...

University Profile
  • Start Date September 2026
  • Language English
  • Duration 12 months
  • Credits 18