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Texas Tech University
TTU student & faculty discussing

School of Theatre & Dance
M.F.A. in Theatre Arts
Performance & Pedagogy

Performance & Pedagogy Track

The M.F.A. degree with a track in Performance & Pedagogy is a terminal professional degree designed for those pursuing careers in both professional theatre and academia. This three-year, 60 credit hour program offers a breadth of specialized training and education that prepares students for creative practice (acting and directing), scholarship, and pedagogy. Completion of the degree requires either a written thesis or thesis project, developed in consultation with faculty advisors, and an oral defense.  
 
Graduate students receive financial support in the form of tuition waivers and competitive graduate assistantships and fellowships. Graduate students may also receive travel support to present their research at conferences. Most students leave the program with college-level teaching experience as graduate part-time instructors.

What Sets Us Apart

The Performance & Pedagogy program attracts students who are looking for a graduate education that allows them to balance their passion for theatremaking with their interest in scholarship and teaching. Unlike MFA programs or conservatories that focus on a single discipline (e.g., training in acting or directing), the Performance & Pedagogy program prepares our students for careers in academic theatre and the field through a wide range of learning experiences. For example, through thoughtful use of elective credits, students have found ways to include studies in specialized interests relevant to their research. A robust production season and abundant extracurricular and student-led activities provide multiple avenues to get involved.

Faculty who teach in the Performance & Pedagogy program are nationally and internationally recognized scholars and creative artists who maintain active practices. Students often work with faculty on meaningful opportunities, such as organizing an international conference, attending significant performance training experiences, or assisting with research and creative activity.

Accreditation

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

Program Highlights

  • Smaller cohort size ensures ability to develop one-on-one relationships with faculty
  • Opportunities for undergraduate-level teaching and participation in faculty research and creative activity are available
  • Signature programs (WildWind Performance Lab, the Marfa Intensive) connect students with working artists and the field
  • Financial support for graduate students may include tuition waivers, assistantships, and fellowships

Student/Faculty Highlights

Facilities & technology

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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

Black Box Theatre Information

Admissions

Curriculum

Alumni Success & Careers

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

Performance & Pedagogy Track Faculty

Gelber, Bill,

Gelber, Bill, Ph.D. Professor | Acting/Directing/Pedagogy Theatre & Dance

Hirshorn-Johnston, Rachel,

Hirshorn-Johnston, Rachel, M.F.A. Associate Professor | Voice and Speech | Head of Acting/Directing Theatre & Dance

Jou, Jesse,

Jou, Jesse, M.F.A. Associate Professor | Directing Theatre & Dance

Staley, Christopher J.,

Staley, Christopher J., Ph.D. Assistant Professor of Movement Theatre & Dance