We ARE accepting applications for the MA and PhD programs for the 2023-2023 academic year
GRE Requirement Suspended
The Program Committee has voted to suspend the requirement for GRE scores for applications for 2022-23. We will neither require scores nor consider them if they are submitted. After this recruitment cycle we will reconsider our policy on the GRE.
Deadlines
Fall semester admission: Applications must be received by January 5 to guarantee consideration for financial aid.
Spring semester admission: The department does not accept applications for study beginning in spring semester.
Application Requirements
In addition to all documents and information necessary for applying for admittance as set forth by the graduate school of the university, the following items are required to be included in all student applications.
1. A completed application submitted through the UW-Madison Graduate School’s online application form.The application fee can be paid online or sent to the Graduate School. For more information, please visit the UW-Madison Graduate School application information page. Select “Interdisciplinary Theatre Studies” for the Academic Program.
2. Official transcripts from each previous undergraduate or postgraduate institution. International academic records must be in the original language accompanied by an official English translation. Documents must be issued by the school and bear that institutions official seal/stamp and an official signature.
3. A one- or two-page letter of intent explaining the candidate’s reasons for pursuing graduate study. Letters of intent should state in specific detail the applicant’s area of interest, possible research questions and methodological focus, and future goals. This should be uploaded to the online Graduate School application.
4. A writing sample of 15-20 pages. This writing sample should demonstrate critical thinking and writing to the applicant’s best advantage. Writing samples reflecting the applicant’s skills in theatre and drama research are preferred.
5. Valid GRE scores – All electronic test scores should be sent to institution code 1846. The Department looks most favorably on verbal scores over 600. No area test is required. GRE scores should be sent directly to the Graduate School. The Program Committee has voted to suspend the requirement for GRE scores for applications for 2022-23. We will neither require scores nor consider them if they are submitted. After this recruitment cycle we will reconsider our policy on the GRE.
6. Three letters of recommendation. Letters of recommendation should be submitted electronically through the Graduate School application. These letters should address the candidate’s potential in the chosen field of study, in addition to other observations of the candidate’s experience, skills, and abilities. If possible, references should be from more than one institution or similar individual source.
7. A current CV specific to the student’s work in theatre and drama
8. Valid TOEFL or IELTS scores (international applicants only)
Admissions Decisions
Each application is reviewed by both Department and Graduate School admissions examiners. Applicants recommended by Interdisciplinary Theatre Studies to the Graduate School for admission are required to submit official transcripts. The Graduate School will request official transcripts if admission is recommended by program. The Graduate School determines admission; however, no student will be admitted without a favorable department recommendation. Once admitted, the student will receive confirmation from the Graduate School.
Pay application fee online or send payment to:
The Graduate School
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Room 228 Bascom Hall
Madison, WI 53706
Tracking Your Application Status
Watch your application status page through MyUW for missing checklist items or additional information. Any requests for information or changes in your status during the program’s review will be noted on the page.
Be sure to activate your NetID in MyUW to ensure continued processing of your application. Contact webapp@grad.wisc.edu if you do not receive the email with instructions within two days of final submission of your application.
Campus Visits
On campus interviews are not required for admission, but encouraged for those students able to arrange a visit to campus. Visiting students will meet program faculty and students, and possibly attend a class. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic we are happy to arrange virtual visits with faculty and students.
International Applicants
For specific information on application and visa requirements for international students, please visit the UW-Madison Graduate School international applicant page.
For information about the Interdisciplinary Theatre Studies Program, please contact the program director: michael.w.peterson@wisc.edu