Drama and Film

As a Drama and Film student, you’ll explore the latest theory and practice in both fields as we help you to grow into a confident, versatile and exciting practitioner with transferable skills to suit whichever field you hope to work in.

Performance is at the core of our Drama and Film degree here at ARU, whether you’re in front of or behind the camera. Your understanding of film theory and history will improve your acting skills and your hands-on knowledge of performance practice will enhance your filmmaking or writing skills.

In drama, you’ll work on public-productions and smaller-scale projects, exploring practices and texts from the 20th century onwards as well as working on original pieces.

In film you’ll explore the language and convention of drama and film, taking in some of the key movements in history from Hollywood cinema through to more experimental modes of performance.

You’ll also have the chance to weight your studies to prepare for a career in the arts or fields such as teaching – get ready to change the way others see the world.

Our Drama and Dance courses ranked 13th in the UK in the Guardian University Guide 2025, with 92% for “satisfied with teaching”.

Our Drama courses scored 90% for “Teaching on my course” and 92% for “Freedom of students to express ideas, opinions and beliefs” in the National Student Survey 2024.

Not only will you develop your performance skills during your time at ARU, our BA (Hons) Drama degree will give you practical experience as a stage technician, and the academic understanding you need to be a director or a teacher.

Graduation doesn’t need to be the end of your time with us, of course. You might decide to stay at ARU and study for a Masters, such as our MA Dramatherapy. Take advantage of our Alumni Scholarship and get 20% off your fees.

Employability and personal career development

Informed by employers, our courses support an integrated approach to employability. You’ll have opportunities to develop the skills and abilities they are looking for and gain a deeper understanding of how your academic learning relates to the world of work through Live Briefs and Ruskin Modules.

To amplify your career ambition, you will need to actively dedicate time outside of your studies, whether you choose to explore placements, internships or volunteering. Or you could make a social impact by collaborating with our partner organisations through our volunteer scheme Students at the Heart of Knowledge Exchange (SHoKE). These all give you an edge, providing you with experience that you will be able to evidence on your CV and talk about in interviews.

Our Employability and Careers Service offers a range of expert advice and support to build your unique professional profile, including tailored career appointments, advice on writing your CV, and help to complete job applications. You’ll have 24/7 access to the Careers Centre, our comprehensive online digital resource, which empowers you to start building a Personal Career Development Plan from the very start. Design your future at ARU.