ABOUT THE M.A. IN INTERDISCIPLINARY THEATRE STUDIES
The Master of Arts degree in Interdisciplinary Studies can serve as the preparatory degree for the Ph.D., or as a terminal degree for students seeking greater exposure to theatre and performance studies beyond the undergraduate degree.
M.A. COURSEWORK
The M.A. requires 30 credits (24 credits minimum in ITS-related courses) of coursework, including ENGL 850 Proseminar: Introduction to Research in Theatre, which must be taken during the first semester.
PRACTICUM REQUIREMENT
The MA program requires significant participation in an approved theatre production or performance event as dramaturg, director, assistant director, stage manager, assistant stage manager, actor, designer, or technician.
THESIS
A candidate for the M.A. degree must choose an advisor from among the core faculty before the end of the second semester of study, and prepare a thesis under his/her guidance. The thesis should represent independent research carried out by the student in consultation with the advisor, and two other committee members with expertise in the area. Students enroll in 5-8 credit hours while completing their thesis.
The student must complete a one-hour oral defense of the thesis upon completion. At the defense, the student explains the contribution of the thesis to the field of study, and responds to questions and critiques by the thesis committee. A successful defense is necessary for completion of the M.A. degree.
M.A. TIMELINE
The M.A. program is designed to be completed in 3-4 semesters of full-time study.