KING'S COLLEGE LONDON, UNIVERSITY OF LONDON · UNITED KINGDOM
Theatre, Performance & Critical Culture MA
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
12 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 1 year (full-time)Duration
- In personDelivery Mode
- September 2026Start Date
- Strand Campus, LondonLocation
This Master's program allows you to explore theatre, performance, and related cultural practices within a vibrant academic environment located in the heart of London. It merges critical theory, creative exploration, and interdisciplinary research, covering contemporary theatre, live art, cultural tourism, experimental choreography, and political performance. You will investigate how performance interacts with broader social, political, and environmental issues, while developing self-aware critical and performative writing skills. Key themes include capitalism, crisis, race, gender, trans politics, sustainability, and the climate emergency, reflecting the program's strong ethical and political focus. Through the cross-faculty network Performance@King’s, you can engage with performance across various disciplines like War Studies, Cultural Media, and Modern Languages. The program also offers an optional practice-based module, Performance Lab, where you can work with guest artists to develop your own creative projects. A significant 15,000-word dissertation, supported by a dedicated research methods module, will enable you to undertake advanced independent research. This MA is ideal for those with a background in Theatre, Performance Studies, Comparative Literature, English, or related fields, or those with practical experience in related industries. It prepares graduates for careers in the arts and cultural sectors, as well as for further academic or professional research.
Curriculum
This Master's program blends theatre and performance studies with a focus on critical culture to examine the contexts and material conditions within which performances take place. You’ll explore how to engage with questions of subject position and identity politics through the arts of writing and performance, considering how contemporary critical practice expands your own experience of theatricality and creative engagement.
- Year 1
- Critical Theory
- London as a Place of Performance
- Performance Lab (Optional)
- Research Methods and Practice
- Dissertation
Careers
This program prepares graduates for a variety of roles within the arts and cultural sectors. The skills and knowledge gained are transferable to both further academic pursuits and professional careers.
- Curation
- Production
- Dramaturgy
- Journalism
- Arts Management
Frequently asked questions
- What is the duration of the Theatre, Performance & Critical Culture MA programme?
- The programme is designed for full-time study and has a duration of one year.
- When does the programme start and what are the application deadlines for international students?
- The programme starts in September 2026. The application deadline for overseas (international) fee status students is 25 July 2026.
- What are the academic entry requirements for this MA programme?
- Applicants should have a minimum 2:1 undergraduate degree (or overseas equivalent) in Theatre, Performance Studies, Comparative Literature, English, journalism, or a related field. Relevant professional experience may also be considered.
- What career paths can graduates of this programme pursue?
- Graduates are prepared for various roles within the arts and cultural sectors, including curation, production, dramaturgy, journalism, and arts management. The programme also supports further academic or professional research.
- How do I apply for the Theatre, Performance & Critical Culture MA?
- You can apply directly to King's College London by submitting an online application form with supporting documents such as academic transcripts, degree certificates, a personal statement, and references.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate DegreeA minimum of a 2:1 undergraduate degree (or overseas equivalent) in Theatre, Performance Studies, Comparative Literature, English, journalism, or a related field. Relevant professional experience may also be considered.
Applications are encouraged to be submitted as early as possible, as the program may close to new applications if it reaches capacity before the deadline.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to the program page for current tuition fees.
Tuition (home)Please refer to the program page for current tuition fees.
LivingPlease refer to the university's accommodation and living cost information.
Tuition fees for 2026 entry are subject to confirmation. Please check the official King's College London website for the most up-to-date fee information.
How to apply
1. Submit ApplicationComplete and submit the online application form. Ensure all required documents are uploaded.
2. Upload Supporting DocumentsProvide academic transcripts, degree certificates, personal statement, references, and any other required documentation.
3. Receive OfferIf your application is successful, you will receive an offer from King's College London.
4. Accept Offer and Prepare for StudyOnce you accept the offer, you will receive further information regarding enrollment, visa applications (if applicable), and pre-arrival preparations.
Accreditation
King's College London is regulated by the Office for Students.
Frequently asked questions
What is the duration of the Theatre, Performance & Critical Culture MA programme?
+
The programme is designed for full-time study and has a duration of one year.
When does the programme start and what are the application deadlines for international students?
+
The programme starts in September 2026. The application deadline for overseas (international) fee status students is 25 July 2026.
What are the academic entry requirements for this MA programme?
+
Applicants should have a minimum 2:1 undergraduate degree (or overseas equivalent) in Theatre, Performance Studies, Comparative Literature, English, journalism, or a related field. Relevant professional experience may also be considered.
What career paths can graduates of this programme pursue?
+
Graduates are prepared for various roles within the arts and cultural sectors, including curation, production, dramaturgy, journalism, and arts management. The programme also supports further academic or professional research.
How do I apply for the Theatre, Performance & Critical Culture MA?
+
You can apply directly to King's College London by submitting an online application form with supporting documents such as academic transcripts, degree certificates, a personal statement, and references.