1617 Cathedral of Learning

412-624-6568

http://www.play.pitt.edu/

The department, founded in 1982, offers a BA, MA, MFA, and PhD in Theatre Arts. The MA and PhD programs involve students in practical as well as critical, theoretical, and historical education, sustaining our mission of providing the widest possible spectrum of educational and training opportunities to future scholars and artists. PhD in theatre and performance studies: Our goal is to forge students who will be "philosophers of theatre." Seminars emphasizing theatre history, criticism, dramatic literature, theory, and performance studies form the core of the program. To help PhD candidates obtain fulfilling teaching positions, we have designed a Special Option Program in which students practice a theatrical skill while working toward their degrees. In addition to numerous production and teaching opportunities for students pursuing a PhD, Pitt features several interdisciplinary options and offers generous financial aid. MA in theatre and performance studies: A concentrated program that emphasizes research and dramatic literature. Many of our MA students have continued study in notable PhD programs, including our own. Combined MA/PhD Program: For highly qualified students who have a BA. These students proceed to the doctoral degree more efficiently, receiving their MA en route. MFA in performance pedagogy: For highly qualified professional actors (often Equity members) who seek a graduate degree in order to pursue a career teaching acting and related topics at the college and/or university levels. Admittance to the program is based on the premise that the professional already has a level of craft that can be drawn upon to create a good teacher. Therefore, emphasis in course work is placed on the techniques of teaching acting performance, with additional course work designed to enhance the student's background in theatre history, literature, and criticism.