University of Chicago

What you'll study

The programme balances historical and theoretical study with studio and production work. Core topics include theatre history and historiography, performance theory, dramaturgy, and methods in theatre research. Practical modules commonly cover acting technique, directing, scenography and design, playwriting, voice and movement, and production practicum.

Students take small seminar-style courses that emphasise critical reading and original research, and they typically participate in hands-on projects mounted in university production spaces. Work culminates in an advanced research paper, a creative thesis project, or a combination of scholarship and practice depending on the student’s focus.

• Performance Theory and Criticism
• History of Theatre and Performance
• Directing and Dramaturgy
• Acting, Voice and Movement
• Design and Technical Production
• Playwriting and Script Analysis
• Research Methods and Capstone/Thesis

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a bachelor's degree or equivalent from an accredited institution. The programme admits students with a range of backgrounds — those with undergraduate study in theatre, performance, literature, or related arts and humanities are typical, but applicants from other disciplines who demonstrate clear commitment to theatre are also considered.

Application materials normally include a statement of purpose outlining academic and creative goals, academic transcripts, and two to three letters of recommendation. Practice-oriented applicants may be asked to submit a portfolio, samples of written work, or to attend an audition or interview arranged by the department. Proof of English language proficiency is required for applicants whose first language is not English. The programme assesses applicants on academic readiness, creative promise, and fit with faculty expertise.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of professional roles across the creative and cultural sectors. Common career paths include theatre director, dramaturg, actor, playwright, designer, and stage manager. The rigorous research component also prepares students for careers in arts criticism, curation, arts administration, and education at secondary and tertiary levels.

Many alumni continue to doctoral study in theatre, performance studies, or related humanities fields. The programme’s combination of scholarship and practice is valued by regional theatre companies, contemporary performance ensembles, cultural organisations, and academic institutions.

Why study at University of Chicago

The University of Chicago offers a distinctive combination of rigorous critical training and active production opportunities. Students benefit from close mentorship with faculty who are prominent scholars and practitioners in theatre and performance studies, and from interdisciplinary links across the humanities, creative writing, and visual arts.

On-campus production venues and collaborations with the University of Chicago’s professional and student theatres provide regular opportunities to mount work; students also have ready access to Chicago’s rich professional theatre ecosystem for internships and professional development. Facilities, libraries and research collections support archival and practice-based research, making the programme well suited to students who want both intellectual depth and practical experience in theatre-making.