Texas Tech University

TTU Theatre students performing in period costumes

School of Theatre & Dance
Master of Arts
Theatre Arts

M.A. in Theatre Arts

TThe Master of Arts in Theatre Arts is a flexible degree that prepares students for further graduate work (in either a Ph.D. or an M.F.A. program), for teaching at the community college or secondary level, and for analytical positions within the profession (such as those of dramaturg or literary manager). It requires a minimum of 36 semester hours beyond the baccalaureate. This includes 15 hours of M.A. core courses, 15 hours of electives, and 6 hours of thesis work. Research, creative activity and scholarly work build to a thesis of the student’s creation and a final examination. 

Our program uniquely offers the opportunity for students to pursue their interests in acting, directing, design, playwriting, and arts administration. The core requirements of the M.A. in Theatre Arts develop key competencies in academic research and writing, while electives ensure familiarity with a broad range of artistic and administrative skills. Wide ranging coursework allows students to explore present and future opportunities within theatre and across the humanities. 

What Sets Us Apart

The M.A. in Theatre Arts is a flexible course of study and a bridge from undergraduate theatre arts, or other undergraduate study, to professional and scholarly achievements in a multitude of areas. Our M.A. in Theatre Arts program does not restrict students to a single path or interest. The degree also effectively prepares students, should they choose, to take what they learn at the M.A. level and pursue a Doctoral or M.F.A. degree in a variety of theatre and related programs.

ACCREDITATION

Accredited by the National Association of Schools of Theatre (NAST)

Traditional Training

Traditional training prepares students for a scholarly career

Full Range of Arts

Explore the full range, taking courses in acting, directing, design, playwriting, and arts administration

Preparedness

Students are prepared for further study or for work in the industry 

Program Highlights

Special programs encourage students to expand their education beyond the classroom and develop a national profile.

 
 
 
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Facilities & Technology

Creative Movement Studio

Theatre & Dance classroom & studio space

Theatre & Dance Complex

Part of Phase I renovation of the Charles E. Maedgen Jr. Theatre

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The CH Foundation/The Legacy of Christine DeVitt Black Box Theatre

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Admissions

Apply Now

Apply through the Texas Tech Graduate School Application Portal

  • Provide transcripts from all previous college-level study
  • Provide all required supplemental items:
    • 3 letters of recommendation, preferably from sources in theatre or dance
    • CV/Resume
    • Payment of required application fee
    • Scholarly writing sample (minimum of 1500 words), preferably on a theatre or dance topic
  • Statement of Purpose
    • Elaborate on your academic, artistic, and/or professional interests and goals specific to the program of study you wish to pursue
    • Briefly describe the aspects of your background relevant to your interest. This could include your undergraduate studies, previous graduate study, and/or professional work.
  • For deadlines and more information, please see our Theatre & Dance Graduate Admissions Page
     

Tuition Estimator

Higher Program Offering

Should students choose to continue their training at Texas Tech, the School of Theatre & Dance offers the Ph.D. and a full range of M.F.A. degrees. 

PhD Fine Arts (Theatre Arts Track)

Curriculum

Online Catalog Information

Alumni Success & Careers

Career Possibilities

M.A. in Theatre Arts graduates are thriving as, for just a few examples, stage managers, Lead Academic Advisors and Program Directors. 

The M.A. in Theatre Arts coursework, thesis and examination constitute rigorous preparation for M.F.A. programs in Theatre and other Humanities and rigorous preparation for Doctoral programs in Theatre and other Humanities. The M.A. in Theatre Arts degree prepares graduates for a range of industry positions and the skillset to innovate. 

Abbie Bugh

Questions?

Contact your Advisor

With questions concerning graduate admissions and portfolio reviews.

Abigail Wright
Graduate Admissions Coordinator
abigail.wright@ttu.edu
806.834.5573