Modern Languages / Drama and Theatre

Modern languages and drama and theatre is a combination that brings together the sustained study of at least one foreign language and its associated cultures with the critical and practical study of theatre and performance. Modern language study develops linguistic proficiency alongside cultural depth, opening access to the literatures, intellectual traditions, histories and contemporary societies of other language communities. Drama and theatre examines performance as an art form, a cultural practice and a social institution, developing both the critical vocabulary to analyse theatre and the practical skills to make it.

At Aberystwyth University you will pursue both disciplines within a bilingual university with a strong tradition of language study, including Welsh, and a vibrant performing arts culture. The programme runs over four years full time and is designed to develop both the linguistic and cultural depth of your language study and the theoretical and practical range of your engagement with theatre. You will examine dramatic texts and performance traditions from a range of cultural and national contexts, which connects naturally to the cross-cultural perspective that language study develops.

You will develop advanced proficiency in your chosen language alongside skills in dramatic analysis, performance, theatre history, critical writing and the practical disciplines of theatre-making. The combination of linguistic and performative expertise is relatively unusual and can be a distinctive advantage in a range of professional and creative careers.

Graduates from modern languages and drama and theatre programmes move into careers in arts administration, theatre-making, language education, translation, cultural diplomacy, journalism, international communications, community arts and performance. The linguistic competence developed through the degree is also valued in international business, the civil service and organisations with a European or international dimension. Postgraduate study in languages, theatre studies, translation or cultural management is also a natural route.