Program Overview
The Higher Diploma in Arts (Theatre & Performative Practices) is a conversion course designed for non-theatre graduates or those with limited theatre experience. It offers a comprehensive education in theatre and performance, converting a student's degree to the equivalent of an honours degree with Theatre as the main subject. The program includes modules in performance, voice, movement, writing, and practical experience, preparing students for careers in theatre, film, and other creative industries. It also provides opportunities for internships and further study at the MA or PhD level.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Higher Diploma in Arts (Theatre & Performative Practices) is a conversion course designed for students with degrees in subjects other than Theatre or with Theatre as a minor subject. It effectively converts a student's degree to the equivalent of an honours degree with Theatre as the main subject. The program is ideal for non-theatre graduates who wish to upskill, gain an additional qualification in the area of Theatre & Performative Practices, and potentially pursue further study at the MA or PhD level. It is also suitable for those with prior theatre-related skills acquired in settings like youth or community theatre, who aim to advance their experience to professional levels.
Outline:
The Higher Diploma in Arts (Theatre & Performative Practices) consists of modules totaling 60 credits, selected from a range of existing Second and Final Year modules in Drama and Theatre Studies. The specific modules, attendance requirements, and coursework are determined by the relevant departments/schools and approved by the College of Arts, Celtic Studies and Social Sciences. The program of study may vary for each student based on their background and preferred area of specialization.
Areas taught on the program include:
- Theatre and Performative Practices
- Cultures of Voicing
- Cultures of Movement and Place
- Performance Technologies
- Applied Drama and Theatre
- Performative Writing
- Practical Internship Work Placement Students select 30 credits from year 2 and 30 credits from the final year of UCC's Drama & Theatre Studies Joint and Single Honours degree courses. The part-time option is taught during weekday working hours over 2 years.
Course Practicalities:
- Full-time students commit approximately 300 hours over 24 teaching weeks.
- Part-time students work out a suitable timetable after acceptance, committing around 150 hours over the teaching year.
- Assessment methods include continuous assessment, practical examinations for performance options, a portfolio of written texts, written responses to set texts and seminars, and coursework ranging from formal essays to learning journals.
Assessment:
- Continuous assessment
- Practical examinations for performance options
- Portfolio of written texts
- Written responses to set texts and seminars
- Coursework ranging from formal essays to learning journals
Teaching:
- The Department of Drama & Theatre Studies employs a wide range of assessment methods.
- Small class sizes facilitate a collaborative, cooperative, and creative learning environment.
- Teaching staff are trained as drama lecturers and (applied) theatre practitioners.
Careers:
- Graduates can pursue careers as actors/performers, directors, writers, producers, technicians, educators, and practitioners in various fields of applied drama and theatre.
- Career sectors include theatre, film, television communications, education, and arts and cultural management.
Other:
- Students have the opportunity to participate in a Practical Internship Work Placement in the Creative Arts Industry.
- The Higher Diploma in Arts program is not a teacher training program. Graduates must complete the Professional Master of Education to qualify as a secondary school teacher.