Dual degree between Beijing Dance Academy and Goldsmiths – MA Musical Theatre
Theatre and Performance at Goldsmiths is collaborating with Beijing Dance Academy (BDA) in China to deliver a newly designed credit recognition and dual degree for those interested in exploring study in different contexts internationally.
You will start Year 1 at Beijing Dance Academy before progressing to a one-year study at Goldsmiths. Once completed at Goldsmiths, you will return to China for your final year of the dual degree programme (1+1+1).
Why study through this partnership
-
You’ll graduate with two degrees – an MFA Musical Theatre from BDA and MA Musical Theatre from Goldsmiths. This will help you stand out in today’s competitive market, with unique learning and intercultural experiences.
-
Our degrees stand out – Goldsmiths is ranked 26th in the world for Performing Arts (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025).
-
You’ll experience studying in two countries and educational systems. Goldsmiths is also a member of the prestigious University of London.
-
With the support of our dedicated Careers Service, leading faculty and an international alumni network, you’ll graduate with expertise and professional connections as you take the first steps into your chosen career.
-
Our single-site campus has quick transport connections to central London. You’ll have all that London has to offer on your doorstep, including over 200 theatres.
-
Living independently, in a new city and part of the world will expose you to a different culture, enhance your self-confidence and resilience in unfamiliar circumstances, and allow you to make new friends from around the world.
-
You'll be awarded a degree that merges theoretical with practical skills as a creative artist. This comprehensive programme offers a unique opportunity to explore and develop your future in the exciting world of musical theatre as a performer, writer/composer, or producer.
-
You'll learn not only from expert academics from Goldsmiths, but also from frontline industry professionals who bring firsthand experience and valuable industry connections, enhancing your employability and long-term career prospects.
-
You’ll study a programme that prioritises both academic knowledge and professional application, facilitating personal growth and development, while also being exposed to a vibrant, international environment, learning from a diverse community of peers and experts.
Contact
If you have specific questions about the degree, contact Robert Gordon or Annie Guo.
What you'll study
If you join Goldsmiths and choose the Performers pathway, you'll study the following compulsory modules:
| Module title | Credits |
|---|---|
| Genre Study | 30 credits |
| Case Study (Performers) | 30 credits |
| Musical Theatre Performer Showcase | 60 credits |
| Acting the Song on the Global Stage | 15 credits |
| Dance for the Global Musical | 15 credits |
You'll also take a 30-credit contextual option module from a list approved annually.
Teaching
Lectures are delivered by both established teaching staff and visiting specialist tutors with expert knowledge in their specific fields.
Alongside this, you’ll take part in seminars, which will develop your skills in analysing and evaluating historical materials. These sessions will also help you interpret video and audio recordings of key performance texts through a combination of tutor-led discussions and student presentations.
A significant amount of learning will be achieved in group practical projects. In addition, activities such as placements are designed to strengthen your individual communication skills and to give you first-hand experience of a professional working environment.
Programme specification
For more information about what you will study during your time at Goldsmiths, read the MA Musical Theatre (PDF) programme specification.
Facilities
As a Goldsmiths drama student you will have access to our fully equipped George Wood Theatre, five studios and our design spaces, which include a sound and media studio and well-equipped workshops for set construction and costume making.
George Wood Theatre
Set and prop workshop
Entry requirements
To start the programme at Beijing Dance Academy, students must initially have satisfied Beijing Dance Academy’s criteria and apply to BDA.
Students who have successfully completed the first year at BDA can apply to study the second year at Goldsmiths.
English language requirements
If English isn’t your first language, you will need an IELTS score (or equivalent English language qualification) of 6.5 with a 6.5 in writing and no element lower than 6.0 to study this programme at Goldsmiths. If you need assistance with your English language, we offer a range of courses that can help prepare you for degree-level study.
Application Timeline
November to December
- Applications open
- You'll need to complete first attempt of IELTS
March to April
- Goldsmiths staff will visit BDA and answer your questions about studying at Goldsmiths
- Applications for the Online Pre-sessional English programme will open
May to June
- Applications for accommodation open
- CAS applications open (for unconditional offer holders)
- Online 12-week Pre-sessional English programme begins
- Online 9-week Pre-sessional English programme begins
July to August
- Online 6-week Pre-sessional English programme begins
- You'll begin the application process for your visa
September
- You'll travel to Goldsmiths and start your studies
Fees and funding
Annual tuition fees
You will need to pay the relevant tuition fee for the MA Musical Theatre programme, as reviewed and set annually by Goldsmiths. For more information about the tuition fee, please visit Tuition fee amounts.
Scholarships
Find out more about postgraduate fees and explore funding opportunities. If you're applying for funding, you may be subject to an application deadline.
Additional costs
In addition to your tuition fees, you'll be responsible for any additional costs associated with your course, such as buying stationery and paying for photocopying. You can find out more about what you need to budget for on our study costs page.
There may also be specific additional costs associated with your programme. This can include things like paying for field trips or specialist materials for your assignments. Please see the programme specification on the degree pathway pages for more information.
Skills and Careers
Preparing you for a successful future
The dual degree programme between the MFA Musical Theatre at BDA and MA Musical Theatre at Goldsmiths, University of London is an opportunity to prepare you with practical and theoretical knowledge for a successful future in the industry.
The MFA Musical Theatre will equip you with the professional knowledge, skills, and aesthetic characteristics of musical theatre, as well as research methods and practical approaches in the related fields.
During your year on the MA Musical Theatre programme at Goldsmiths, you will select one of the three specialised practical pathways (Performers, Producers, or Writers and Composers). The course places a strong emphasis on the dramaturgy of musicals as a key factor in the future development of the genre, with its distinctive and practical-focused approach.
By combining the strengths of both programmes, your creativity and imagination will be stimulated. You will gain broader knowledge base, expanding your options for post-graduate destinations. The programmes also provide you with practical experience and implants the resilience required to navigate the demanding and competitive nature of the industry.
Find out more about employability at Goldsmiths.
Typical careers for graduates of the programme include:
- Musical theatre composer
- Librettist
- Lyricist
- Producer
- Musical theatre performer
- Marketing manager
- Production assistant
Graduate visas
Our Immigration Advisory Service can provide advice on graduate visas.
More information about your studies
For queries about studying at Goldsmiths
Contact International Student Recruitment Manager, Sunny Deng:
- Email: S.Deng (@gold.ac.uk)
For queries about studying at BDA
Contact Gong Rong, Project Manager of BDA Graduate Affairs Office
- Email: gongrong@bda.edu.cn
International students
Explore the following links for information and requirements regarding your preparation and arrival in London.
- London may be more expensive than your home city. Check out London cost of living for information on basic average expenses and tips for saving money.
- Stay ahead of the curve by visiting our when you arrive page for essential information on healthcare, support services and more.
- Take a look at our Immigration Advisory Services for all-visa related enquiries and one-to-one chats with experts.
- Unsure of where to live? Explore Goldsmiths' Halls and Accommodation for a variety of housing options.
- Goldsmiths’ Multi-Faith Chaplaincy offers a non-judgmental space for all beliefs and faith traditions.
You can also visit our International students page for further support and advice.
Transitioning to Goldsmiths
Transitioning into a new university from a partnership is a wonderful and unique experience, though it comes with its own set of challenges. Understanding the effort it takes to move countries and universities, here are our top tips to make your transition into Goldsmith's smoother and more enjoyable.
- To start, connect with current students through our student-led platform, Unibuddy. This allows you to chat directly with current students who have experienced the transition themselves and can help you through any doubts and queries.
- Discover our wide range of Societies. Whether you’re looking for competitive sports teams or the university’s newspaper, you have a wide selection of activities to choose from. Check out the Musical Theatre Society.
- Explore the events at Goldsmiths to get a feel for the vibrant student life and meet people from all years and subject areas. From cultural festivals to academic seminars, there’s always something happening on campus.
- Check the Student Union (SU) for events and opportunities, including part-time job opportunities, non-academic support, Salsa Dance classes, and the popular Trashy Tuesdays at the SU Bar.
- Lastly, don’t forget to review the International Student Handbook available on the Student Union's Website for important information on housing, arriving to the UK, support services and more.
