BA in Theatre Arts, Education & Deaf Studies
UCAS Code: W440
Mode & Duration: 3 years full-time
Course description
The programme comprises three main strands (see below). Your first year places the main emphasis upon developing an understanding of the nature of performance and builds towards a major Course Production. The second and third years culminate in a number of student-orientated practical projects, giving you the chance to investigate an aspect of theatre you find particularly interesting. At the same time you will gain practical experience in delivering a range of drama work in mainstream schools (often with hearing impaired units), special schools for deaf children and other special needs schools.
It would be helpful if you had some basic knowledge of sign language prior to entry, at least to Stage 1 Level, but this is not essential. BSL (British Sign Language) is taught on the course and you will have the additional opportunity to gain external nationally recognised qualifications in this subject.
Teaching and assessment
Most work is based around practical workshops and interactive methods of learning. There are some lectures and, in addition, student-led seminars, discussions and debates enable you to share ideas and experiences, while small group or individual tutorials provide additional support where necessary.
Assignments vary in length from short analyses of practical work to research-based analytical academic essays. There are no examinations on the course. In the final year you will research an extended dissertation on a related subject of your choosing.
Course structure
Theatre Contexts & Conventions
- Performance Analysis - how meanings are created and communicated in theatre.
- Practice & Theory of Improvisation
- Heritage of Theatre - the social and historical contexts of Western European theatre throughout the ages.
- Nineteenth & Twentieth century European theatre - an exploration of central issues with a focus on key texts and practitioners.
- Physical Theatre Forms including chorus work, Commedia d'ell Arte, mime, movement and mask.
- Eastern Dance-Drama - focusing on Japanese No Theatre, traditional Chinese Opera & Indian Kathakali.
- Perspectives in Directing - investigating the role of the Director through a study of key twentieth century practitioners.
Education and Pedagogy
- An Introduction to Drama in Education - focusing upon the theory and practice of drama in relation to the National Curriculum in schools.
- Drama & Theatre in Education: Primary - devising, presenting and evaluating drama at primary level with particular emphasis upon the needs of deaf children.
- Theatre in Education: Secondary - devising and delivering practical projects for deaf/hearing integrated classes of pupils from the stimulus of the National Curriculum guidelines for Citizenship.
- Drama & Special Needs
- Community Theatre in Theory & Practice
Sign Theatre & Deaf Studies
- British Sign Language (BSL) as a linguistic medium.
- Sign Theatre - a unique form of theatre for an integrated deaf/hearing audience.
- Physiology of Deafness.
- The Social & Educational Implications of Deafness in Children A History of Deaf Education in Britain, Western Europe & the USA .
Fact File
UCAS Tariff: 160 points including two full A levels. Total points exclude Key Skills and General Studies.
BTEC/ACCESS Other Applicants welcomed. Applications are welcomed from mature students.
Irish Highers: CCCC
International Baccalaureate: 24 points
Deferred Entry Available: Yes
Subject Brochure: No