The Higher Diploma in Arts (Theatre and Performative Practices) is a programme of study running for 12 months (full-time) or 24 months (part-time) from the date of first registration for the programme.

Applications will be considered from graduates in any subject other than Drama and Theatre Studies. Applicants will normally have an honours primary degree (2H2 or above).  Applicants with significant professional-level drama and theatre experience will also be considered. Applicants will be asked to attend a workshop and/or interview with staff from Drama and Theatre Studies.  Screen arrangements may be made in the case of applications from international students.

The Higher Diploma in Arts (Theatre and Performative Practices) programme consists of modules to the value of 60 credits taken from Levels 2 and 3 of the undergraduate BA degree. 

30 credits from year 2:

Semester 1	Semester 2
DR2003 (10 credits)	DR2002 (10 credits)
	DR2008 (5 credits)
DR2009 (10 credits)	DR2012 (10 credits)
DR2019 (10 credits)	DR2027 (10 credits)
	DR2020 (10 credits)
DR2016 (10 credits)  (across 1 and 2)	DR2016 (10 credits) (across 1 and 2)
DR2028 (5 credits)
Optional in either semester:
DR2022 (5 credits)	DR2022 (5 credits)
DR2024 (5 credits)	DR2024 (5 credits)
DR2025 (5 credits)	DR2025 (5 credits)
	DR2028 (5 credits)

(not all options are available each year—but workload structure will allow for even balance across semesters).

30 credits from final year

Summer period in between Year 2 and Year 3: Optional module: DR3001 Practical Internship Work Placement (5 credits)
This module is recommended as it reduces in term workload as well as offering valuable work placement experience.

Semester 1	Semester 2
DR3013 (20 credits)	DR3013 (20 credits)  (delivered across both semesters)
DR3018 (10 credits)	DR3017 (10 credits)
DR3015 (10 credits)	DR3019 (10 credits)
	DR3020 (10 credits)
DR3006 (5 credits)
DR3008 (5 credits)
DR3025 (5 credis)
Optional in either semester:
DR3009; DR3021; DR3023; DR3024 (5 credits each)	DR3009; DR3021; DR3023; DR3024 (5 credits each)

(Note that not all options are available each year—but workload structure will allow for even balance across semesters)

Applicants who complete the Higher Diploma in Arts (Theatre and Performative Practices) with a second class honours or equivalent may apply to be admitted to the MA in Theatre and Performative Practices.

Module Semester Information may be found here. Module Descriptions may be found here.

Examinations
Full details and regulations governing Examinations for each programme will be contained in the Marks and Standards 2018 Book and for each module in the Book of Modules 2017/2018.

Programme Learning Outcomes for Higher Diploma in Arts (Theatre and Performative Practices) (NFQ Level 8, Major Award)

On successful completion of this programme, students should be able to:

• Demonstrate knowledge of a range of dramatic texts and historical and contemporary contexts of theatre production and be able to discuss critically key aspects of the relationship of particular play texts to their social, cultural and theatrical context;
• Define the vocabulary and conceptual framework of applications of performative practices in social or educational contexts, especially with regard to theatre as a teaching subject;
• Demonstrate and apply understanding of theatre production process by contributing creatively to a production process from research through to performance;
• Show development of basic physical skills and voice techniques and apply them to communicate with an audience;
• Initiate a process of embodied inquiry and demonstrate a basic understanding of the art of acting and devising theatre;
• Demonstrate an understanding of traditional and contemporary critical perspectives on performance, and of relevant theories, issues and debates relating to the subject.