Master of Arts (Theatre Studies)

• be able to conduct advanced level critical analysis and interpretation of text and performance that incorporates literary, semiotic, historical and theoretical studies;
• appreciate the critical and creative dimensions of theatre and performance;
• demonstrate advanced level understanding of key thinkers and practitioners in theatre and theatre theory and criticism;
• recognise and explain textual and performative strategies to do with genre and theatricality; and
• appreciate and/or demonstrate advanced level creative practice.

Duration: 1.5 years full-time / 3 years part-time

The Master of Arts in Theatre Studies is available in two forms:

1. Thesis of 30,000 words
2. Combined dissertation and creative work (not more than 50% of thesis; example, a dissertation of 15,000 words plus equivalent creative work)

A four-year BA (Honours) degree with a research component or equivalent in the appropriate area of study or closely related area. The grade for the honours thesis component must be at least equivalent to an H2A (75%) at The University of Melbourne and the overall honours result must be at least equivalent to an H2B (70%).

Applicants must include with their application a thesis proposal of 2,500 words and a writing sample (this may be an essay from your previous degree, a chapter from your Honours or Masters thesis or a published article). The primary basis for selection is academic merit; however, consideration will also be given to the quality of the thesis proposal, research potential, and the availability of an appropriate supervisor. Two written academic references should be included with the application.

Applicants who intend to undertake a combined dissertation and creative work masters must demonstrate prior creative practice at a level deemed by the University to be an equivalent of fourth year honours.