Theatre Undergraduate Courses

Our theatre courses will provide you with a unique experience, combining academic teaching with the insights of practising theatre professionals.

With 1.9 million people working in the creative industries, your degree can open the door to a range of careers. You will be at the centre of a professional environment developing skills in acting, devising and directing for your career as a professional theatre artist.

The School of Arts is a place where talent thrives and ambitions are realised. Our impressive facilities include Derby Theatre, the UK's unique professional, producing and learning theatre where you'll study alongside professionals.

Top25for student satisfactionDrama, Dance and Cinematics subject area, Complete University Guide 2025
Top25for student experienceDrama, Dance and Cinematics subject area, Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025

Undergraduate Theatre courses

Music and Theatre - your questions answered

In the below video, Head of Music and Performing Arts, John Crossley, answers some of the most frequently asked questions about Music and Theatre at the University of Derby. 

John Crossley, Head of Music and Performing Arts.

View Music and Theatre - your questions answered! video transcript

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My time at the University of Derby has been a huge learning experience. The staff became more like a family and Derby became my home away from home. Due to the industry experience on my course, I have been able to pursue an MA in Acting.

Ellie Williams
Theatre graduate
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University of Derby wins Guardian University Award for #ThisIsDerby

The Social and Community Impact award recognises the work by a partnership initiative involving Derby Theatre to bring cultural education and events to Derby city’s young people.

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Study and learn alongside professionals at Derby Theatre...

About Derby Theatre and how students can access this venue during their studies

View Study at Derby Theatre video transcript

A man sits facing a woman talking to her with his fist in the palm of his hand

There was a sense that anything is possible at Derby. We were studying in an atmosphere where risk-taking, creativity and entrepreneurship were the norm. It gave me a love of learning which has stayed with me.

Richard Gerver
BA Theatre Arts, Derby Theatre Board member and best-selling author

Career opportunities

Studying Theatre will open a number of doors for you, whether you want to stay in the profession or branch out to use your skills elsewhere.

  • casting
  • creating and running new theatre
  • companies
  • directing
  • performing 
  • producing

You could also go on to study our MA Applied Theatre and Education.

Derby Theatre

Team from Derby Theatre stand for their photo at the UK Theatre Awards

Derby Theatre wins Excellence in Arts Education Award at UK Theatre Awards

Derby Theatre has won recognition of its learning theatre vision and innovative This is Derby project.

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Kedleston Road, Derby Campus entrance

Undergraduate Open Days

The best way to find out if studying at Derby is right for you is to experience an Open Day. Get a feel for the city and campus, tour our first-class facilities and see where you could be living.

Book your undergraduate Open DayBook your undergraduate Open Day
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Student stories

Our students and graduates are people just like you. And they are making an impact in our region and around the world by using their knowledge and skills to drive innovation and change. You can be part of that story. Let our students and graduates tell you theirs.

Hear from our students and graduatesHear from our students and graduates