Theatre (MA) – Theatre Studies Track

This track provides developing theatre scholars and artist-scholars with a broad base of knowledge and skills in theory, pedagogy, and practice with additional emphasis on dramaturgy, new play development, and the creation of original and devised works. Students also take a variety of classes in theory and practice, as well as participating in Theatre UCF productions and external internship opportunities.

“Thinking dramaturgically” is a foundational philosophy of this program; we believe that dramaturgy is not only a profession or role, but also a modality of thinking and working collaboratively in theatre. Dramaturgical skills empower scholars and artists to analyze texts and their contexts, work productively with others, communicate ideas effectively, and devise meaningful and engaging theatrical experiences. We believe dramaturgy enhances artistic practice and expands career opportunities for students regardless of their chosen field, whether it be directing, designing, performing, writing, educating, or administering.

What makes this program unique is its many opportunities for hands-on experience. MA Theatre students at UCF can work as dramaturgs or in other creative capacities on new plays at Pegasus PlayLab, a festival that showcases new and emerging playwrights from around the country. MA students are also able to collaborate with the Orlando Shakespeare Theatre on their annual PlayFest, a series of readings of groundbreaking new works by local and national writers. Students can also get involved in our annual UCF Celebrates the Arts festival, a showcase of creativity, innovation, and collaboration where they can present their research or creative work, participate in workshops and masterclasses, network with industry professionals, and enjoy the performances and exhibits of their peers and faculty.

Track Prerequisites

Minimum requirements for admission are a BA or BFA degree in Theatre or equivalent and an interview. Each student interested in the program must apply to UCF through the College of Graduate Studies before being considered a serious candidate.

Students applying for entrance into the MA program must have successfully completed the following undergraduate courses or their equivalent:

• Script Analysis or Play Analysis
• Directing I

Any questions about these requirements should be directed to the program coordinator. Students must submit application materials to UCF's Graduate Studies. The University of Central Florida employs an online application process which can be accessed at graduate.ucf.edu.

• Online application
• Application fee
• Official transcripts
• Residency classification form
• Statement of purpose
• Résumé
• Three (3) current letters of recommendation
• Writing sample (5–10 pages, double-spaced) on a theatre-related subject, with bibliography

Degree Requirements

Core

• Complete the following:
  • THE5910 - Research Methods in Theatre (3)
  • THE5945L - Theatre Practicum I (1)
  • THE5946L - Theatre Practicum II (1)
  • THE6947L - Theatre Practicum III (1)

Specialization

• Earn at least 15 credits from the following:
  • THE6507 - Dramatic Theory and Criticism (3)
  • THE5205 - American Theatre (3)
  • TPA5405 - Theatre Management (3)
  • THE6086C - Careers in Professional Theatre (3)
  • THE5307 - Contemporary Theatre Practice (3)
  • THE5485 - Dramaturgy (3)

Elective Courses

• Earn at least 9 credits from the following types of courses: Any 5000 or 6000 level course with the prefix of THE*, TPA, and TPP which does not have program restricted pre-requisite requirements. Alternatively, students can select electives from other departments within the university, subject to approval by the instructor and the MA in Theatre Studies Track Coordinator. This requirement encourages students to find graduate-level coursework best suited to develop their research agendas and to prepare for their theses. *THE 6971 cannot be used towards electives. Note: Fifty percent of total program course work must be at the 6000 level or above.

Thesis

• Earn at least 9 credits from the following:
  • THE6971 - Thesis (1 - 99)

Examination

• A comprehensive Theatre exam is administered to MA majors at the end of their course work. The department allows two attempts at a comprehensive exam.

Grand Total Credits: 39

Financial Information

Graduate students may receive financial assistance through fellowships, assistantships, tuition support, or loans. For more information, see the College of Graduate Studies Funding website, which describes the types of financial assistance available at UCF and provides general guidance in planning your graduate finances. The Financial Information section of the Graduate Catalog is another key resource.

Fellowship Information

Fellowships are awarded based on academic merit to highly qualified students. They are paid to students through the Office of Student Financial Assistance, based on instructions provided by the College of Graduate Studies. Fellowships are given to support a student's graduate study and do not have a work obligation. For more information, see UCF Graduate Fellowships, which includes descriptions of university fellowships and what you should do to be considered for a fellowship.

Candidates must demonstrate the ability to understand the conceptual basis of their art and to be able to articulate that understanding to others. In addition to their theoretical studies, MA students are also required to demonstrate proficiency in theatrical production. Students must maintain a minimum "B" (3.00) overall Theatre GPA to continue in the major. Fifty percent of graduate course work must be at the 6000 level. Theatre courses with grades of less than "C" will not be counted toward degree requirements. Continuation in the MA program requires a positive annual evaluation. All graduate students must consult with an area adviser. All MA students must successfully complete a written thesis. The thesis proposal must be approved in advance.