Utrecht University

Overview

The MA in Contemporary Theatre, Dance and Dramaturgy at Utrecht University offers a comprehensive, research-informed curriculum that examines how contemporary performance and choreography engage with pressing social and cultural issues. Conducted in English, this master's program emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical application through internships and lab-based modules, enabling students to cultivate their own research endeavors.

• Level: Master’s (MA)
• Duration: 12 months (full-time)
• Credits: 60 ECTS
• Language of instruction: English
• Delivery: On-campus at Utrecht University
• Academic focus: Contemporary theatre, dance, performance research, and dramaturgy
• Internship: Field placement in the second semester
• Accreditation: NVAO (Accreditation Organisation of the Netherlands and Flanders)

What you'll study

The program integrates academic coursework with research labs and hands-on learning experiences. Students engage in performance analysis, dramaturgical thinking, and research methodologies, all supported by structured lab sessions and expert guidance.

• Semester 1
  • Theories and Concepts of Theatre, Dance, and Dramaturgy
  • Contemporary Performance: Mapping the Field
  • Performance Research Lab
• Semester 2
  • Thesis Research Lab
  • Internship in Contemporary Theatre, Dance, and Dramaturgy

Capstone / Thesis: A key component of the program is the thesis research trajectory, which is supported by the Thesis Research Lab. Students will build their final work on the research questions and methodologies developed during their studies.

Electives and Specialization: The program comprises core modules, with additional elective options that may be available based on the official curriculum for the relevant academic year.

Entry requirements

Admission is open to candidates who possess a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution, either in the Netherlands or from an equivalent foreign university (research university degree). Additionally, applicants must demonstrate the following competencies:

• Critical Reflection: Ability to analyze and question the role of theatre, dance, and performance in contemporary society, as evidenced in your motivation letter and a writing sample (in English).
• Research Literacy: Familiarity with research methods applicable to the Humanities and understanding of key concepts in Theatre, Dance, or Performance.
• Professional Communication: Social and communication skills necessary for collaboration with peers and arts professionals.
• English Proficiency: Proficiency in English (both oral and written), demonstrated through your writing sample, motivation letter, and interview.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MA in Contemporary Theatre, Dance, and Dramaturgy program will be well-equipped to pursue diverse career paths in the performing arts sector. Potential opportunities include roles as dramaturgs, performance researchers, arts educators, and cultural managers, among others. The combination of theoretical knowledge and practical experience gained during the program provides a solid foundation for engaging with contemporary artistic practices and contributing meaningfully to the field.