Drama & Theatre Studies

The MA in Drama and Theatre Studies, housed at the O’Donoghue Centre for Drama, Theatre and Performance, is a world-leading course that combines critical perspectives on the practice of theatre history/theory with theatre-making. A diverse range of modules allows students to build a programme that suits their chosen career trajectory– whether in theatre practice, Irish drama, playwriting, theatre criticism, applied theatre or a blend.



As a student at the O’Donoghue Centre, you will benefit from being immersed in a supportive, invigorating community of world-class practitioners and scholars, whilst also being based in Galway, home to a vibrant arts and theatre scene.



This MA programme blends theoretical and practical approaches to the study of drama, and is particularly suited to applicants who wish to produce theatre publicly, write or review plays, teach drama, or carry out further academic research. Applicants with a general interest in theatre are also very welcome. As a student on the course, you can benefit from University of Galway’s unique partnership with Druid Theatre, recently described by The New York Times as “one of the world’s great theatre companies.” Led by Garry Hynes, participation in the Druid Academy involves masterclasses, and workshops as part of your degree.

Year 1 (90 Credits)

Required DT6130: Critical Methods in Drama, Theatre and Performance

Required DT6100: Dissertation

Required DT6138: Creative Practices in Drama, Theatre and Performance

Optional DT6140: Designated Emphasis in Playwriting and Dramaturgy

Optional DT6139: Designated Emphasis in Theatre Practice and Production

Optional DT6143: Playwriting and Dramaturgy

Optional DT6142: Devised Theatre and Performance Methods- Artistic and Socially Engaged

Optional DT6144: Creative Producing

Optional DT6122: Performance Lab

Optional T6141: Drama and Theatre Studies Work Placement

1 year, full-time

2 year, part-time

Next start date: September 2026

Recent graduates have gone on to work with many theatre companies including the Abbey Theatre, Baboró, Branar, the Gate Theatre, the Galway International Arts Festival, Rough Magic, the Young Vic (London) and others. They have also found employment in education, the heritage and tourist industries, arts organisations, business and the public service. Many have progressed to PhD study, often winning scholarships in support of their studies and continuing on to work in academia in the UK, Ireland and the United States.