Ph.D. Theatre & Performance Studies

The master's and doctoral programs in theatre & performance studies combine rigorous study of theory, criticism and history with production work in a collegial atmosphere. Students can expect to develop expertise in current methodologies, such as those derived from or applicable to contemporary historiography, semiotics, post-structuralism, post-modernism and cultural studies. The research of our faculty ranks us in the top ten among a selection of major institutions in the 2005 Faculty Productivity Index by Academic Analytics. The department is an organizational member of the Association for Theatre in Higher Education and home to the prestigious Journal of Dramatic Theory and Criticism.

The purpose of the Ph.D. in Theatre & Performance Studies is to develop leaders in the areas of both studies and practice.  The curriculum requires an intense exposure to critical theory, history and historiography, and the craft and art of performance, especially directing. The majority of graduates become teachers in higher education, artists or both.

Recent and former students from the M.A. and Ph.D. programs work or have worked across a wide array of academic and artistic settings, including Junkyard Dog Productions, The Ohio State University System, Chapman College, Washburn University, CBS, Disney Productions, University of Costa Rica, University of Minnesota (Morehead), Southern Illinois University, University of Georgia, Texas Christian University, University of Minnesota (Duluth), University of Arizona, California State University (Fresno), Southern Utah University, Bismarck State College, SUNY-Buffalo, Columbus State University, University of Kansas, Benedictine College, Wayne State College (Nebraska), and Converse College.