Indiana University Bloomington

What you'll study

The MA in Drama combines core study in theatre history, dramatic literature and research methods with practicum options in performance and production. Typical modules include Theatre History and Historiography, Contemporary Dramatic Theory, Research Methods in Theatre Studies, Play Analysis and Dramaturgy, and Seminar in American and World Drama. Students can select elective courses or practica in areas such as Acting Technique, Directing Workshop, Stage Design and Technology, Lighting Design, Costume Construction, Sound Design, Movement and Voice, and Playwriting.

The programme normally offers a choice between a research thesis or a capstone/project route: the thesis route emphasises original scholarly research and critical writing, while the capstone allows for a substantial practical project (for example, a director’s portfolio, a design showcase, a production practicum or a practice-led dramaturgical project) accompanied by a reflective essay. Coursework typically incorporates seminars, directed research, supervised production assignments and opportunities to collaborate with the university's performance ensembles and regional theatre partners.

Entry requirements

Admission requires a bachelor's degree from a recognised institution, usually with a strong academic record in theatre, performance, English, or a closely related field. Applicants should submit a statement of purpose outlining academic and professional objectives, official transcripts, and two or three letters of recommendation.

For practice-focused applicants (acting, directing, design, playwriting), the department typically requests a portfolio, work samples or an audition/ interview. Portfolios may include video excerpts, designs, production photos, script samples or other documentation of creative work. International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency according to university guidelines. GRE scores are not universally required; applicants should check the department website for current testing policies.

Career prospects

Graduates with an MA in Drama pursue a broad range of careers across the performing arts, education and cultural sectors. Typical destinations include:

• Professional theatre and touring companies as actors, directors, designers, dramaturgs and stage managers
• Arts administration, programming and producing in theatres, festivals and cultural organisations
• Teaching at community, secondary or collegiate levels (often combined with certification or additional qualifications)
• Graduate study (PhD or MFA) for careers in university teaching, research, scholarship or advanced creative practice
• Related roles in script development, literary management, audience development, outreach and arts advocacy

Why study at Indiana University Bloomington

Indiana University Bloomington combines a broad, research-led arts faculty with substantial practical training opportunities. The Department of Theatre offers access to dedicated performance spaces, scene and costume shops, and technical laboratories that support both scholarly and practice-based work. Proximity to the Jacobs School of Music and a vibrant local arts community in Bloomington creates interdisciplinary collaboration opportunities and frequent live-performance experiences.

Students benefit from faculty who work across history, criticism and professional practice, and from partnerships with regional theatres and festivals that provide real-world placements. The department’s mix of rigorous academic coursework and hands-on production experience prepares graduates for flexible careers in the contemporary theatre and cultural sectors or for further academic study.