University of Cincinnati

What you'll study

This master’s combines practical studio work with academic and research-based modules. Core areas typically include advanced acting, voice and movement, scene study, text analysis, directing or playwriting workshops, and contemporary approaches to performance making. Students also study dramatic literature and theory, research methods in theatre, and professional skills such as audition technique, stagecraft and collaboration across design disciplines.

The programme emphasises production-led learning: students participate in a rigorous season of plays, workshops and experimental performance projects. Depending on the pathway chosen, study may include modules on:

• Advanced Acting and Character Development
• Voice and Speech for the Actor
• Movement and Physical Theatre
• Directing: Script to Stage
• Playwriting and Dramaturgy
• Stagecraft, Costume and Scenery Collaboration
• Theatre History, Criticism and Contemporary Theory
• Research Methods and Professional Practice
• Capstone Project or Thesis and Production Practicum

Training is delivered through seminars, one-to-one coaching, ensemble rehearsal and mounted productions. Assessment commonly combines practical performance, written assignments, presentations and a final creative or research project.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor's degree in theatre, performing arts or a related discipline. Candidates with substantial professional experience in theatre may also be considered. Typical application requirements include:

• Official transcripts from undergraduate (and any postgraduate) study
• A curriculum vitae outlining theatrical experience
• Personal statement describing artistic goals and reasons for applying
• Letters of recommendation (usually two or three)
• Portfolio materials appropriate to the pathway—this may be a showreel, writing samples, design portfolio or similar
• An audition or interview for performance and directing applicants; or a live/recorded submission for writing and design applicants
• Proof of English language proficiency if your first language is not English

The programme may not routinely require standardised test scores; check the department for pathway-specific requirements and submission details for auditions or portfolios.

Career prospects

Graduates follow diverse careers across the professional theatre and creative industries. Common pathways include:

• Professional actor in theatre, television, film and new media
• Theatre director or assistant director
• Playwright, dramaturg or creative developer
• Stage manager, production manager or technical director
• Set, costume or lighting designer and other design specialisms
• Arts administration, producing and development roles in theatres and festivals
• Teaching and community arts roles, including further study at doctoral level or qualifications for secondary/tertiary teaching

The programme’s emphasis on production experience and professional practice also supports freelance careers and entrepreneurial projects such as founding independent companies or producing new work.

Why study at University of Cincinnati

The University of Cincinnati houses the College-Conservatory of Music, a conservatory-style environment with strong traditions in performance training and production. Students benefit from frequent laboratory productions, mentorship from practitioner-faculty and interdisciplinary opportunities across acting, music, design and production technology.

Cincinnati’s active regional theatre ecosystem provides local internship and collaboration opportunities with professional companies, while facilities include performance spaces, rehearsal studios and production workshops that support high-quality, hands-on training. The programme’s balance of rigorous studio practice and academic inquiry aims to prepare graduates for both professional work and continued scholarly or creative development.