Overview

Key features

The Drama programme of Rhodes University is designed not only to consolidate and extend current professional practices and research interests but to uncover new knowledge bases - whether they be pedagogical, academic, social or artistic.

A number of successful artists, theatre makers, choreographers, performers and educators have emerged from the Masters programme working now within educational and tertiary institutions, or as professional and/or independent artists. Nurturing artistic talent and growth is something the department does very well. Since 2000, 5 of the Young Artist Award Winners for Dance have been graduates from RU Drama – 3 of these from the Masters programme.

In addition, the department still hosts two progressive theatre companies: First Physical Theatre Company and UBOM! Eastern Cape Drama Company, both renowned for their creative edginess, extension of normative theatre languages, and providing a platform for graduates in which to develop their professional aspirations. Not many institutions can boast of dynamic in-house companies with such extensive repertoires. The companies were designed to act as creative research laboratories for student innovation and experimentation.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

There are two different pathways towards completing the MA by coursework. Both directions require completing the coursework but with different outcomes.

Either Option 1

two research papers (8 000 – 10 000 words) and the practical component of the course in the first year of study (two small projects and a final Thesis Project); and

to complete a half thesis (30 000 words) in the second year of study.

Assessment Weighting

Practical Thesis Project (40%)

Research Papers x 2 @ 5% each (10%)

Half Thesis (50%)

Or Option 2

two research papers (8 000 – 10 000 words) along with three practical projects in the first year of study and

to produce the final Thesis Project half way through the second year of study followed by a practice-led Research Report (12 000 -15 000 words) on the Thesis Project. This report is produced in the final 6 months of study.

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-02-10 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-09-30 00:00:00

Language

English

IELTS

7

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Credits

180 alternative credits

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Grahamstown, South Africa

Disciplines

Drama View 13 other Masters in Drama in South Africa

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

IELTS

7

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

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AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

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98 accuracy using real exam data
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Other requirements

General requirements

An APS score of 40 points and above will receive a firm offer, 37-39 points will remain on hold until the end of September to be considered by the Dean if space is available
Applicants who have passed A levels are eligilble for full exemption provided the passes in approved subjects meet the following requirements:
- A-level: symbols A-E (minimum of 2 subjects)
- AS-level: symbols A-D (4 subjects and 1 at O-level)
- O-level: symbols A-C (maximum of 3 subjects)
- At least 2 subjects at A-level and 3 different subjects at O-level or 3 subjects at A-level and 2 at O-level
HIGCSE/IGCSE qualification:
- HIGCSE: symbols 1-3 (4 subjects)
- IGCSE: symbols A-C (1 subject)
International Baccalaureate (B)
- 3 High level (HL) subjects: Grade 4
- 4 Standard Level (SL) subjects: Grade 5

Student Insurance via Studyportals Partner

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Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at Rhodes University and/or in South Africa, please visit Student Insurance Portal.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

34750 ZAR / year

≈ 34750 ZAR / year
Domestic Applies to you

Applies to you

Citizens or residents

30494 ZAR / year

≈ 30494 ZAR / year

Additional Details

International student levy- 13 199.00

Living costs

Grahamstown

South Africa

7630 - 10640 ZAR / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Drama.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

On this page

About

Overview

Key features

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Student Insurance via Studyportals Partner

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic Applies to you

Additional Details

Living costs

Grahamstown

Funding

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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