Theatre Education Program Requirements
The MA degree requires the successful completion of 40 credit hours, including 20 credits of foundational and core courses. Students must complete either a comprehensive examination in the area of their concentration or a master’s thesis or master’s project.
The remaining credit requirements may be satisfied through electives approved by your advisors. Students who choose to earn initial licensure in Massachusetts as Teachers of Theatre at all levels (pre-K–12) use these electives to complete additional coursework and experiences that fulfill state requirements.
Theatre Educator Stream
This stream prepares students to teach theater and drama to young people or adults in schools, universities, and other institutional settings.
Foundations: 8 credits
- Drama as Education: 4 credits
One additional 4-credit course from:
- Dramatic Theory
- Theatre and Community
- Drama as Education: 4 credits
Core: Courses from 3 different areas: 12 credits
- Acting
- Directing
- Playwriting/Devising
- Dramatic Literature/Theatre History
- Theatre Design/Technology
Capstone Requirement (one of the following):
- Comprehensive Examination: 0 credits
- Master’s Project or Thesis: 4 credits
Theatre & Community/Teaching Artist Stream
This stream prepares students for theater work in community settings.
Foundations: 8 credits
- Theatre and Community: 4 credits
One additional 4-credit course from:
- Drama Education
- Multicultural Education
- Contemporary Issues in Education: 4 credits
Core: Courses from 3 different areas: 12 credits
- Acting
- Directing
- Playwriting/Devising
- Dramatic Literature/Theatre History
- Theatre Design/Technology
Capstone Requirement (one of the following):
- Comprehensive Examination: 0 credits
- Master’s Project or Thesis: 4 credits
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 »
