Theatre Education Curriculum
Whatever path you choose, our curriculum considers the art of teaching and the teaching of art. Offering two streams of study for students, the Theatre Education program allows you to explore yourself as both an artist and an educator.
We help you prepare for a successful career by offering areas of emphasis in Theatre Teacher Education as well as Theatre and Community. At Emerson, we delve into teaching techniques and approaches that create vital experiential learning environments.
Track 1: Theatre Teacher Education
Through the Theatre Teacher Education stream, you will be given the tools and the know-how to teach drama to children pre-K through grade 12 in public and private school settings.
For those interested in pursuing a career in public school teaching, Theatre Education students can earn an initial Massachusetts teaching license (all levels) as a Teacher of Theatre in our Department of Elementary and Secondary Education–approved program.
Track 2: Theatre & Community
As a teaching artist and community advocate, you will explore the uses of theater in a variety of community settings such as community theater, recreation and arts centers, museums, professional theater for young audiences, or in education outreach for a professional theater. In the Theatre and Community stream, you may also focus on theater as a catalyst for social change.
Internships & Practical Experience
As you form relationships with professors and peers and delve into your chosen coursework, you will be given the opportunity to cultivate your talent outside of Emerson as well.
Boston is a dynamic center for the arts, with several renowned museums and cultural organizations around the city, providing ample opportunity for experience in the community. Emerson is surrounded by nearly a half-dozen theaters, and Broadway productions make regular stops on their way to and from New York. These theaters, in addition to surrounding schools, museums, and cultural institutions, provide many excellent opportunities for internships and practice.
Theatre Education (MA) At a Glance
40 credit program
Full-time or part-time enrollment. Full time enrollment is typically 8 or 12 credits per semester.
Fall admission
Classes generally meet in the day and evening.
Full-time students usually complete degree in one and a half to two years; part-time students usually complete the degree in two and a half to three years.
Meet the Graduate Program Director
Robert Colby, Graduate Program Director for Theatre Education and Associate Professor, specializes in theater education and theater for young audiences, and directing. His productions for young audiences have toured extensively throughout the New England area.
Learn more »
Graduate Studies
FOR CURRENT STUDENTS
To read the Graduate Handbook and learn about research and fellowship opportunities, visit the Graduate Studies website.
Amy Czarnowski '06
Building A Network of Theatre Teachers
Chelsea High School Drama and Dance Teacher and Director Amy Czarnowski '06 calls the community in the Theatre Education graduate program a breath of fresh air. Watch the video »
