Drama, as an expressive subject, offers a different perspective into the human experience through the art of performance. It will enhance your understanding of theatrical techniques, storytelling, and the collaborative process of creating compelling narratives.
Beyond the stage, drama offers invaluable skills to open up many career paths. Graduates can use their creativity, adaptability, and communication prowess in fields such as film and television production, advertising, public relations, and event management.
As well as the obvious careers, the understanding of human emotions and perspectives becomes a valuable asset in roles ranging from teaching and counselling to corporate training and leadership development. So whether commanding the spotlight as an actor or working behind the scenes in production and management, drama offers a great foundation for a fulfilling career journey.
The impact you could make
- Perform on stage and on screen, bringing a range of characters to life – whether to entertain or as a platform for social commentary.
- Have the ability to engage with the world creatively to promote cultural understanding.
- Use drama-based theories to impact education and community development.
- Inspire and support young people as a drama teacher or therapist, helping them express themselves in an alternative manner.
What you could study
- Acting techniques
- Theatre history
- Play analysis
- Directing
- Design and technical theatre
- Performance studies
Example module
Example project
Subjects it's useful to have studied first
Some drama courses will have requirements for previous qualifications in certain subjects. Entry requirements vary, so always check with the provider.English
Performing arts
Theatre studies
Media studies
Label
Skills you'll develop
Hard skills you'll develop
- Master acting techniques including character development, emotional expression. and physical embodiment
- Experience in technical aspects of theatre production
- Analyse scripts to understand dramatic structures
Soft skills you'll develop
- Communication and teamwork
- Adaptability and creativity
- Empathy
- Emotional intelligence
Careers: Where it can take you
Find out more about your career prospects from studying drama. The following information is based on a typical drama role, like an actor or entertainer.Average salary
Available jobs
Career options
Art, performance, and design
Media, publishing, and information services
Marketing and sales
What is a… theatrical trend translator?
So you've studied drama, mastered the art of expression, and now you're a theatrical trend translator. Your job is to take the drama from the stage to the streets, turning everyday life into a dynamic performance.
Whether it's advising fashion designers on styles, helping corporations infuse creativity into their presentations, or curating immersive experiences for unconventional events, your honed skills bring a touch of drama and magic to the ordinary.
Find your ideal career
Take our careers quiz to find your ideal job matched to your personality type.Getting in: Entry requirements
Find out more about what you'll need to study drama.
Average requirements for undergraduate degrees
Entry requirements differ between provider and course, but this should give you a guide to what is usually expected from drama applicants.
Audition and interview
A levels
Vocational
Scottish Highers
Audition advice
Find out what to expect at a conservatoire assessment.
For those who the performing arts is a viable and valuable career option, CDMT advocates strongly for secure access to, and support for, professional vocational training to secure the pipeline of performers and teachers upon who the future of the creative sector depends.
Other subjects you may be interested in
Explore further
Go deeper into topics around drama with the following:
-
1
Actors on Actors series
Get behind the scenes with Hollywood's best actors in conversation with their peers – think Cillian Murphy and Margot Robbie discussing working with world-class directors and their acting process.
-
2
Join your local theatre group
Get real-life acting or behind the scenes experience by joining local aspiring actors, performers, and organisers. -
3
Keep up-to-date
Get the latest industry news from The Council for Dance, Drama and Musical Theatre.
78% of students
Application advice
Whether it's personal statement tips or what to write in a cover letter, our application advice will help you get ahead in your drama journey.- Have you been involved in any amateur productions?
- Have you always had a knack for keeping people entertained and engaged in conversation with you?
- Do you have a flair for storytelling and a fantastic imagination?
- Maybe you love a bit of theatre and feel inspired every time you go to a production.
- How are your critical thinking skills? Can you give some examples of how you’ve developed?
- Are you culturally aware and able to empathise with people easily?
