Soap fans can now get a degree in their favourite show

Justin Harp

Updated 22 March 2018 at 7:47 pm

Soap fans are finally getting a payoff for all those nights watching Peggy Mitchell throwing blokes outta 'er pub on EastEnders and Steve McDonald cheat on any number of girlfriends on Coronation Street.

Any long-time soap watcher will attest to the fact these shows are an art form unto themselves, making it perfectly logical that a university is now offering degrees in this very specific form of telly-watching.

Starting with the autumn 2018 semester, the University of Central Lancashire will offer a BA-Hons Continuing Drama Production programme for those interested in working behind the scenes in the soap industry.

UCL is partnering with Coronation Street, EastEnders and Emmerdale to offer work experience opportunities for their prospective candidates.

To get students ready for the fast-paced world of soap production, UCL has constructed an on-campus set which mirrors the Rovers Return and Kabin from Coronation Street, as well as interiors of flats and shops where candidates can hone their craft.

This programme has been backed by current Coronation Street star Jennie McAlpine (aka Fiz Brown) as well as John Thomson, who played Jesse Chadwick on the ITV soap between 2008 and 2010.

"This is an exciting and innovative course that will give students a real-world experience," John Thomson said.

"It will focus on creating the next generation of producers, directors, sounds engineers, editors, writers and camera operators, giving them the practical skills and training they need to stand out in a very competitive industry."

(John Thomson as Pete in ITV's Cold Feet)

For more information on the University of Central Lancashire's Continuing Drama Production degree, just click here.

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