Postgraduate
MA Drama and Theater Studies
NUI Galway
Course Overview
The MA in Drama and Theater Studies, housed at the O’Donoghue Center for Drama, Theater and Performance, is a world-leading course that combines critical perspectives on the practice of theater history/theory with theater-making.
A diverse range of modules allows students to build a programme that suits their chosen career trajectory whether in theater practice, Irish drama, play writing, theater criticism, applied theater or a blend. As a student at the O’Donoghue Center, you will benefit from being immersed in a supportive, invigorating community of world-class practitioners and scholars, whilst also being based in Galway, home to a vibrant arts and theater scene. This MA programme blends theoretical and practical approaches to the study of drama, and is particularly suited to applicants who wish to produce theater publicly, write or review plays, teach drama, or carry out further academic research. Applicants with a general interest in theater are also very welcome. As a student on the course, you can benefit from NUI Galway’s unique partnership with Druid Theater, recently described by The New York Times as “one of the world’s great theater companies.” Led by Garry Hynes, participation in the Druid Academy involves masterclasses, and workshops as part of your degree. Students can opt to take the course on a full-time (one year) basis or a part-time (two year) basis.
What you need to know
Where is the course located?
Galway
What is the length of the course?
12 Months (1 Year) Full-time
When can I apply?
You can apply today
When does the course start?
September
Placement options
Application Closing Date
Open for an application
Number of Places
15
Fees and Funding
Non-EU Tuition Fees
€ 15,550
Living Costs per year
€ 10,000
Application Fee
€ 60
Features and Benefits
- The MA in Drama and Theatre Studies, housed at the O’Donoghue Centre for Drama, Theatre and Performance, is a world-leading course that combines critical perspectives on the practice of theatre history/theory with theatre-making.
- Recent graduates have gone on to work with many theatre companies including the Abbey Theatre, the Gate Theatre, Rough Magic, the Young Vic (London) and others.
- This MA programme blends theoretical and practical approaches to the study of drama, and is particularly suited to applicants who wish to produce theatre publicly, write or review plays, teach drama, or carry out further academic research.
- They have also found employment in education, the heritage and tourist industries, arts organisations, business and the public service. Many have progressed to PhD study, often winning scholarships in support of their studies.
Entry requirements
How to Apply
Once you are ready to start your application, please click on APPLY NOW
As part of your application, you will be required to submit:
- Your academic history and transcripts (Actual and/or Predicted Grades)
- Proof of English proficiency (typically IELTS or TOEFL scores)
- 2 letters of recommendation
- A copy of your passport
- Personal Statement
- CV/Resume
- Extra requests for certain courses
Minimum entry requirements
A university arts degree (minimum standard 2.2, or US GPA 3.0). Students will be accepted on the basis of the degree result, a writing sample (5–6 pages) which can be an academic essay, creative writing piece or theater reviews a personal statement outlining suitability for and interest in the programme, and names and contact details of two references. Applicants who do not meet the minimum entry requirements may be admitted via a qualifying exam if they have relevant professional experience, or may be admitted to the PDip. Students who do not meet the honors degree requirement but have a Level 7 degree (Merit 2) may be admitted to the PDip course with the possibility of progressing to the MA if they receive a minimum of 60% in their course work during the year.
English Requirements
Arts/Business/Law (No less than 5.5 in any Component)
IELTS: 6.5 Overall
TOEFL: 88
Pearson (PTE): 61
Duolingo English Test (DET)**: 110
• Temporary measure for 2020 only in response to COVID-19
Special Entry Requirements
n/a
Career Prospects
Recent graduates have gone on to work with many theater companies including the Abbey Theater, the Gate Theater, Rough Magic, the Young Vic (London) and others. They have also found employment in education, the heritage and tourist industries, arts organisations, business and the public service. Many have progressed to PhD study, often winning scholarships in support of their studies.
Notes
n/a