Master of Arts in Theatre and Performance Studies

Program Overview

The Master of Arts in Theatre and Performance Studies equips students with a comprehensive understanding of theatre history, methodologies, and socio-cultural contexts. The program emphasizes critical engagement with practical protocols and prepares graduates for leadership roles in arts organizations or doctoral studies. Students must maintain a 3.0 GPA, complete a thesis, and pass an oral examination to graduate.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Master of Arts in Theatre and Performance Studies aims to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the methodologies, approaches, and protocols prevalent in both the study and practice of theatre and performance. The program emphasizes:

Analytical understanding of theatre history and similar genres of performance:

Students will develop a critical and historical perspective on theatre and its evolution, encompassing diverse performance genres.

Critical engagement with practical protocols:

The program explores the techniques, methods, and practices that have shaped theatrical creation and study, both historically and contemporarily.

Understanding socio-cultural contexts:

Students will gain insights into the social, cultural, and historical influences that inform theatre scholarship and practice, fostering a nuanced understanding of performance within its context. The M.A. program prepares students for leadership positions within various arts organizations at the community, regional, and national levels. It also provides a solid foundation for pursuing doctoral studies in theatre and performance.

Assessment:

The assessment methods and criteria include:

• Coursework:
Students must maintain a grade-point average of 3.0 or higher throughout the program, which comprises 33 graduate credit hours.
• Thesis:
A comprehensive thesis, based on scholarly and/or creative research, is required for graduation. This thesis is evaluated through an oral examination by a committee.

Careers:

The M.A. in Theatre and Performance Studies prepares graduates for leadership roles in a range of arts organizations, including:

• Community theatre organizations
• Regional theatre companies
• National arts institutions
Additionally, the program provides a solid foundation for pursuing doctoral studies in theatre and performance.

Other:

• The program requires at least 50% of the coursework to be at the 700 level or above.
• Students are expected to complete 6 hours in theatrical production.
• Up to 6 hours of additional courses in a foreign language or research skills may be required by the advisor.
• The Department of Theatre and Dance's Graduate Resource page provides further information.
• The Graduate Studies section of the online catalog outlines the policies and procedures for graduate admissions.
• The Department of Theatre and Dance does not admit new students for the Spring or Summer terms.
• The completed application should be submitted online.
• The Department's Graduate Handbook provides further details about meeting the degree requirements.