PhD Drama and Theatre Studies (On-Campus or by Distance Learning)

Postgraduate research in the Department of Drama and Theatre Arts brings students, scholars and theatre practitioners together to achieve a new breadth and depth in the study of drama.

Your research will benefit from the Department’s exceptional resources for theatre research, as well as our links with world-class theatre in Birmingham, Stratford-upon-Avon, London and beyond.

Why Study this Course?

World-leading research: in the latest Research Excellence Framework exercise 30% of research at the University of Birmingham for Drama was awarded the top 4* rating as ‘world-leading’. A further 39% was rated 3* ‘internationally excellent’.
Excellent resources: you can take advantage of our exceptional resources for theatre research, such as a large number of studio spaces, the Orchard Learning Resources Centre, with its own well-stocked library and computer suites, and a purpose-built theatre and high-definition cinema facility in the George Cadbury Hall.
Links with The Shakespeare Institute: Students are encouraged to take advantage of opportunities afforded by The Shakespeare Institute campus in Stratford-upon-Avon and the University’s collaboration with the Royal Shakespeare Company at The Other Place.

Employability

Your degree will provide excellent preparation for your future career, but this can also be enhanced by a range of employability support services offered by the University and the College of Arts and Law.

The University's Careers Network provides expert guidance and activities especially for postgraduates, which will help you achieve your career goals. The College of Arts and Law also has a dedicated careers and employability team who offer tailored advice and a programme of College-specific careers events.

You will be encouraged to make the most of your postgraduate experience and will have the opportunity to:

  • Receive one-to-one careers advice, including guidance on your job applications, writing your CV and improving your interview technique, whether you are looking for a career inside or outside of academia
  • Meet employers face-to-face at on-campus recruitment fairs and employer presentations
  • Attend an annual programme of careers fairs, skills workshops and conferences, including bespoke events for postgraduates in the College of Arts and Law
  • Take part in a range of activities to demonstrate your knowledge and skills to potential employers and enhance your CV
Read more
Use our magical AI system, to check your admission chances for this course.
£21,840 Per Year

International student tuition fee

3 Years

Duration

Sep 2025

Start Month

Aug 2025

Application Deadline

Upcoming Intakes

  • September 2025
  • September 2026

Mode of Study

  • Full Time