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.

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:

Students take 30 credits from the following: 
DR2002 Performative Writing in Contemporary Theatre (10 credits)
DR2019 Applied Drama and Theatre (10 credits)
DR2020 Ways of Seeing and Doing Performative Arts Practice (10 credits)
DR2025 Special Studies in Interdisciplinary Performative Practices (5 credits)
DR2027 Theatre and Performative Practice 3 (10 credits)
DR2030 Performance Technologies: Explorations (5 credits)

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.

Students choose 30 credits from the following:
DR3001 Practical Internship Work Placement (5 credits)
DR3009 Special Studies in Theatre Production (5 credits)
DR3023 Research Placement (5 credits)
DR3024 In Semester Internship (5 credits)
DR3031 Final Year Performance (10 credits)
DR3032 Voice in Performance (5 credits)
DR3033 Research Placement (Spring) (5 credits)
DR3034 Performative Writing (5 credits)
DR3036 Applied Drama & Theatre: Advancing Engagement (5 credits)

(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.

Examinations
Full details and regulations governing Examinations for each programme will be contained in the Marks and Standards 2021/2022 Book and for each module in the Book of Modules, 2021/2022.

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.