Text and Performance Birkbeck, University of London

Overview

The M.A. in Text and Performance at Birkbeck, University of London, is a distinguished course tailored for those keen to delve into the realms of theatre and the performing arts. The programme is structured to accommodate both full-time and part-time students, with classes scheduled in the evenings, making it ideal for individuals balancing work or other commitments. This flexibility allows students to engage with the course material deeply while applying their learning in real-world contexts.

Why Text and Performance at Birkbeck?

Birkbeck stands out for its exceptional teaching staff, comprising world-renowned artists and academic researchers. The university collaborates with notable industry partners, including Camden People’s Theatre and Battersea Arts Centre, providing students with invaluable networking opportunities and hands-on experience. Furthermore, Birkbeck was ranked 2nd in the UK for its English Language and Literature research in the 2021 Research Excellence Framework, underscoring its commitment to academic excellence.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

The tuition fees for the M.A. in Text and Performance for the academic year 2026-27 are as follows:

• Full-time home students: £11,340 per year
• Part-time home students: £5,670 per year
• Full-time international students: £20,850 per year
• Part-time international students: £10,425 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The course comprises a comprehensive curriculum designed to enhance both practical and theoretical knowledge. Students must complete modules worth a total of 180 credits, including:

• Three compulsory modules (30 credits each)
• One optional module from a specified list (30 credits)
• A dissertation project, which includes academic and practice-based pathways (60 credits)

Depending on their chosen pathway, students will engage with various modules, such as:

• Collaborative Theatre Making
• Contemporary Performance Cultures: Ideas and Approaches
• Performing Texts
• Dramaturgy: Processes and Practices
• Introduction to Playwriting

Careers with Text and Performance

Graduates of the M.A. in Text and Performance find themselves equipped with a diverse skill set, making them highly employable across various sectors. Alumni have pursued careers in theatre and performance practice, script development, dramaturgy, and writing for film and television. Notable graduates include Charlie Barker, an actor and teacher, and Dzifa Benson, a writer and critic. The Birkbeck Theatre Alumni network offers ongoing support and networking opportunities, further enhancing career prospects for graduates.