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Theatre Arts : Graduate Programs

CWU Graduate Program Brochure

Master of Arts - Theatre Studies (MA-TS) Specialization
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ

Why is the GRE required for admission?

Since the Master of Arts in Theatre Studies at Central Washington University is designed to be a PhD preparatory program, taking the GRE at this stage in your academic career will assure you have the verbal and analytical skills required to succeed here and beyond.
What GRE scores do I need?
Your GRE scores will be taken into account as a part of your total application packet, which will also include your academic record, references, and writing sample.
How do I take the GRE?
The GRE is administered in locations throughout the country. To find a time and place convenient for you please visit: http://www.ets.org/gre/
Where do I send my application and can I apply online?
Currently all applications must be sent to the Office of Graduate Studies and Research in a hard copy format, including all of your supporting materials. All of the required forms can be downloaded at: http://www.cwu.edu/~masters/forms/formsGraduate.html
Does my undergraduate degree have to be in theatre?
No, but you must meet the prerequisite requirements, which include a full academic year of theatre history at the 300 level or above and at least one dramatic literature course. If these courses have not been fulfilled they may be completed during a probationary admission period.
Can I transfer credits into the program from another institution?
Yes, up to nine applicable equivalent hours can be transferred.
Can I transfer into the program or apply for winter or spring quarter?
Yes, but assistantships are generally awarded for fall admission.
Can I apply after the application deadline?
You can apply at any time, but assistantship priority is given to those who meet the application deadlines.
Will you send me an application?
We are happy to send you an application packet, however you can also download all of the required materials online at: http://www.cwu.edu/~masters/forms/formsGraduate.html
Are there production opportunities for me in this program?
The MA-TS program is designed to prepare you for a career as a theatre scholar. You will find a schedule that is at once rigorous, but also rewarding. MA-TS candidates can be involved in production by providing valuable research and insight with supporting dramaturgical materials. If you are seeking a program in which you can serve as a performer or designer, an MFA program might better suit your needs.
What is the difference between the MA-Theatre Studies (MA-TS) and MA-Theatre Production (MA-TP) specializations?
While both programs share a common core of classes, they have decidedly different outcomes and are designed for two distinctly different student groups. The MA-TP is a practical, hands-on program specifically designed for educators producing theatre in the schools; it is delivered in the summer months through a series of intensive courses designed to enhance the teaching and theatre production process. The MA-TS specialization is an academic course of study designed to prepare students for careers as theatre scholars and provide the foundation for successful completion of PhD programs. The MA-TP specialization culminates in a production, while the MA-TS specialization culminates with a research thesis.
Can I attend summer courses and finish early?
While the two MA programs have a common core of courses, they have decidedly different outcomes. As an aspiring theatre scholar the intensive, overview courses offered in the summer months may not provide the extensive academic preparation you will need as you continue your studies beyond CWU.
Are graduate students able to take courses outside of the Department of Theatre Arts?
Yes, we encourage students to pursue courses that will enhance their area of emphasis and prepare them for a well-rounded and thoughtful Masters thesis.
Are there emphasis areas in the MA-TS?
Emphasis areas are dramaturgy, directing, pedagogy, and performance studies, however they can be combined to best suit your interests and, ultimately, your success as you prepare both your thesis and course of study beyond CWU.
Is this a one year program or two?
The MA in Theatre Studies is a two-year residency academic program, preparing students for college level teaching or advancement into a Ph.D. program.
Can international students apply for and be accepted into this program?
Yes, we encourage and welcome international students.
http://catalog.cwu.acalog.com/content.php?catoid=23&navoid=488#inte_stud
Do I have to do international research or study abroad?
It is not required, but it is encouraged as any foreign study only makes students more competitive as they pursue PhD programs. Opportunities are currently available at CWU and more theatre-specific study abroad opportunities are under development. Opportunities can be explored at: http://www.cwu.edu/~intlprog/
How long will this program take?
The MA-TS is a two year course of study that allows you to develop a competitive Masters thesis for ongoing study and PhD placement.
What is the foreign language requirement and why do I need this?
Most PhD programs require a minimum of one foreign language and some require two. In order to place students in the best position possible for entry into nationally recognized Ph.D. programs a minimum of a second year of at least one foreign language at the undergraduate level with a grade of "B" or better is required. This may be completed prior to admission or while enrolled in the Theatre Studies program.
How much is the assistantship?
The assistantship covers full tuition, health insurance, and a modest monthly stipend. (International applicants should contact the program coordinator for special guidelines)
Is housing available?
There are a wide variety of housing options in Ellensburg, both on and off campus. On campus, both family housing and single student options are available and can be found at: http://www.cwu.edu/~housing/

Contact Information

Theatre Arts Department
400 E. University Way
Ellensburg, WA 98926
963-1760
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