Program Overview

Drama Therapy Graduate Program

Kansas State University's M.A. in theatre is a Drama Therapy pre-professional training program that has been approved by the North American Drama Therapy Association. K-State's program is the only approved Drama Therapy program in the mid-west and the only one at a public university.

About the Program

The program is housed in a Theatre Department, allowing graduate students to continue to develop their theatre skills along with their drama therapy skills. The production season offers a balance of classics and contemporary drama. Each year, the program produces one musical and one opera in association with the K-State Music Department. Graduate students are welcomed to audition for shows and propose shows to direct as part of their Master Project.

Faculty

The faculty includes:

• Michelle Davenport, Program Director
• Melissa Briggs The faculty have published books and articles in professional journals and have held national leadership positions in professional associations.

Theatre Productions

Production facilities include:

• an 1800-seat proscenium theatre in McCain Auditorium
• a 240-seat thrust theatre (The Mark C. Chapman Theatre) in Nichols Hall
• a 125-seat theatre (The Purple Masque Theatre) for student written and directed productions The main stage season includes four productions a year, plus two to three plays in the Purple Masque Theatre for the second stage.

Graduate Teaching Assistantships

Assistantships can be available in:

• Fundamentals of Acting
• Marketing
• Scene Shop Stipends for GTAs are offered running from August to May and provide 10 hours of graduate credit tuition that are waived each semester in addition to a stipend of $12,000 paid biweekly.

Admission Requirements

The Drama Therapy Program does not require the GRE or other graduate admissions tests. To be considered for a Graduate Teaching Assistantship, the application should be submitted by February 1. Application deadlines for international students are:

• January 8 for fall (August) enrollment
• December 1 for summer (June) enrollment

Application Process

1. Complete the Graduate School application for admission and pay the application fee.
2. Submit official transcripts from each college or university attended.
3. Provide the names and contact information of three people who can write letters of recommendation.
4. Upload an essay describing why you wish to study at Kansas State, what aspects of the program appeal to you, and what your career goals are.
5. Participate in an in-person interview at K-State.

International Student Requirements

International students must also submit:

1. TOEFL Scores sent in by the testing agency, with minimum scores:

• IBT TOEFL (internet based): 79
• TOEFL (PBT): 550
• IELTS: 6.5
• Pearson Test of English (PTE): 58

2. An Affidavit of Support.