Studying a Musical Theatre Course at a UK University

Musical Theatre courses at UK universities offer highly practical, dynamic and exciting programmes which are at the cutting edge of today's performance world. A musicaltheatre degree is ideal for students who are:

• Passionate about performing
• Interested in creating their own performances
• Creative, risk-taking and ready to learn through facing challenges

Students on a musical theatre programme have the opportunity to devise, think about, discuss and critique a wide range of professional performances and art events. UK universities are famous globally for the performing arts and you will benefit from being taught by leaders in the arts scene. 

Musical Theatre courses such as the MA Musical Theatre and BA Musical Theatre are receiving more applications than ever and if you would like to begin a musical theatre course in the UK, arrange a free consultation with SI-UK London today.

Top Five Musical Theatre Degrees

Below is a list of the five best UK universities for studying musical theatre degrees, according to the Guardian University Guide 2024.

1. Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama

Cardiff’s Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama aims to equip students with comprehensive, highly developed, and completely integrated skills via its BA (Hons) Musical Theatre course. Modules will focus on singing, voice, speech and text and at the end of your final year, you will perform in showcases in Cardiff and London in front of industry professionals.

• Suggested course: BA (Hons) Musical Theatre
• Entry requirements: Normal entrance requirements include A levels, BTEC or equivalent qualifications, including WBQ, BTEC National Diploma/Certificate, IB diploma, etc.
• International fee: £26,800

2. Royal Conservatoire of Scotland

Royal Conservatoire of Scotland is the promised land for aspiring artists and musicians worldwide. Its incredible infrastructure and deep industry ties attract thousands of students every year. The MA Musical Theatre (Performance) and BA Musical Theatre courses are considered among the best in the world, thanks to their integrated curricula that focus on developing students' outstanding skills in acting, singing, dance, and music. 

• Suggested course: BA Musical Theatre
• Entry requirements: A Levels — 2 passes. International Baccalaureate — minimum score of 24 with 3 subjects at Higher Level.
• International fee: £27,968

3. Buckinghamshire New University

The BA (Hons) Musical Theatre course at BNU equips students with essential acting, dance, and singing skills, guided by industry specialists. From full-scale musicals to a graduate showcase, students gain performance experience and develop into confident and creative individuals ready for the musical theatre industry. 

Opportunity modules broaden horizons with sustainability, entrepreneurship, and personal growth offerings. Led by a dedicated team with industry links, students benefit from guest lecturers and external performance opportunities, including access to leading regional theatres like the Wycombe Swan.

• Suggested course: BA (Hons) musical theatre
• Entry requirements: A UCAS tariff score of 88 - 112 (Full-time) or 32 - 56 (Foundation Year).
• International fee: £15,150

4. Anglia Ruskin University

At ARU, the BA (Hons) Musical Theatre programme immerses students in practical training with industry experts from Year 1. Focused on actor-musicianship, physical theatre, and choreography, students gain real-world experience through showcases and productions. With experienced tutors and professional facilities like the Mumford Theatre, Cambridge provides a vibrant study environment. 

From foundational ensemble singing and acting techniques to advanced performance assessments, students develop skills culminating in full-scale productions and showcases. Opportunities for international study and industry engagement enhance students' confidence and teamwork abilities for a successful career in musical theatre.

• Suggested course: BA (Hons) musical theatre
• Entry requirements: An International Baccalaureate Diploma with a minimum of 24 points is accepted, and it must include a related subject.
• International fee: £15,900

5. University of Greenwich

The Professional Dance and Musical Theatre degree at Greenwich’s Bird College in Sidcup, London, nurtures aspiring dancers and musical theatre artists. Practical training encompasses musical theatre, acting, singing, and various dance styles, while academic study delves into performance theory, promoting personal growth and artistic reflection. 

Specialisations in musical theatre or dance are available, with final-year performances showcasing talent to industry professionals. Compulsory modules cover dance and musical theatre studies, performance workshops, and career-focused projects, preparing graduates for diverse musical theatre, cabaret, and television opportunities.

• Suggested course: BA (Hons) professional dance & musical theatre
• Entry requirements: 64 UCAS Tariff points. GCSE Mathematics at grade 4/C and GCSE English Language/Literature at grade 4/C.
• International fee: £17,000

Study a Musical Theatre Course in the UK

Are you considering studying for a musical theatre degree in the UK? Arrange a free consultation with SI-UK London and begin your application today.

Help me to Study in UK

FAQ

What qualifications do I need to study musical theatre in the UK?

Qualifications required to study musical theatre in the UK generally include A-levels (ABB), IB diploma (32 points), or equivalent qualifications. Students need different requirements based on the universities and courses.

How many years is a musical theatre degree in the UK?

A musical theatre degree in the UK typically lasts three years for full-time undergraduate programmes. Some institutions may offer variations, such as accelerated programmes or part-time options with different durations.

How much do musical theatre actors get paid in the UK?

The average salary for musical theatre actors in the UK can range from around £20,000 to £48,000 per year. However, top performers in high-profile productions may earn significantly more.

Which universities in the UK have the highest acceptance rate for musical theatre courses?

UK universities with high acceptance rates for musical theatre courses include Arts Educational Schools London, Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts, Royal Academy of Music, Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, and Guildford School of Acting at the University of Surrey.