Theatre, MA

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Are you eager to explore new possibilities as an artist, educator or scholar? Learn to recognize and cultivate your individual strengths through this program that encourages the study of a wide range of theatre practices and related fields.

The MA program in theatre introduces students to graduate study in the field of theatre and performance studies and provides a broad base of knowledge in the areas of history, theory, dramaturgy, research methods and practice.

Students have the opportunity to tailor their plan of study to specific research pathways and artistic subject areas such as performance studies, history and historiography, theory, dramatic writing, theatre for youth, performance as research, technology in performance, drama for teaching and learning, dramaturgy, devising, directing, civic engagement and performance.

The program is designed for those who wish to ultimately enter a doctoral program, for K-12 educators seeking to expand and amplify their expertise, and for those seeking to advance their knowledge of theatre and performance studies.

At A Glance

Theatre, MA

Plan of study

The Plan of study is the required curriculum to complete this graduate level program.

View Plan of Study

Degree requirements

Required Courses (15 credit hours)

Electives (9 credit hours)

Culminating Experience (6 credit hours)
THE 599 Thesis (6)

Admission requirements

Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts.

Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field from a regionally accredited institution.

Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program, or applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.

All applicants must submit:

  1. graduate admission application and application fee
  2. official transcripts
  3. current curriculum vitae
  4. sample of scholarly writing
  5. statement of purpose
  6. three letters of recommendation from professionals familiar with the applicant's work
  7. proof of English proficiency

Additional Application Information
An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of current residency.

The statement of purpose should address the applicant's background, experiences, research interests, and future career goals as they relate to their reasons for pursuing the degree program.

Applicants should see the program website for application deadlines.

Information about this program

Visit the School of Music, Dance and Theatre website for full details.