MFA Theatre Directing at Birkbeck, University of London

Programme overview

Please note: this course is now closed for applications for September 2026 start. Applications open again in September 2026 to start this course in September 2027. This MFA Theatre Directing offers you professionally recognised training.

Faculty: School of Creative Arts, Culture and Communication | Duration: Two years full-time, on campus | Study mode: full-time | Intake: September 2027 | Location: London, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

On this course you will examine the director’s relationship with key collaborators: the actor, the writer, the designer, the industry and the production. You will be introduced to a wide range of methodologies and the approaches of leading practitioners to encourage you to develop your own toolkit and unique artistic vision for the work you wish to create. Compulsory modules include The Director and the Actor: Unit B, The Director and the Author: Unit D, The Director and the Designer: Unit E, The Director and the Industry: Unit F.

Career pathways

Recent graduates have directed productions at prestigious West End and regional theatres including: The National Theatre, The RSC, The Globe, The Royal Court, English National Opera, The Almeida, The Young Vic, The Old Vic, The Lyric Hammersmith, The Gate.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Either a second-class honours degree (2:2) or above from a UK university (or a directly comparable qualification from a non-UK university), together with some significant experience of professional or professional-level theatre; or an undergraduate- or postgraduate-level diploma from a recognised UK drama school (or a directly comparable qualification from a non-UK drama school), together with some significant experience of professional or professional-level theatre (normally three years); or extensive professional experience. Considerable importance will be attached to your ability to demonstrate commitment to professional theatre directing. If you are considered to be initially qualified, you will then be interviewed. There are two application deadlines: Friday 22 January for interviews in February and Friday 30 April for interviews in late May and early June. There is no advantage in either deadline but overseas students may wish to apply earlier in order to have more time to secure visas. English language: IELTS Academic 6.5 overall with at least 6.0 in each component.

Domestic applicants: GBP 11,670 a year (2027/28). Full-time home students; Two years full-time, on campus, starting in October 2027 Source

International applicants: GBP 21,780 a year (2027/28). Full-time international students; Two years full-time, on campus, starting in October 2027 Source

Intake: September 2027

Duration: Two years full-time, on campus

Apply through the official page: https://www.bbk.ac.uk/student-services/admissions/postgraduate/applications

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