Theater arts

Theatre Arts at the University of California offers a comprehensive and immersive program designed to cultivate the next generation of versatile theater practitioners. This program integrates rigorous academic coursework with practical hands-on experience, enabling students to develop a deep understanding of theatrical history, theory, and performance techniques. Students have the opportunity to engage in a variety of disciplines, including acting, directing, dramaturgy, stage design, and production management, ensuring a well-rounded education that prepares them for diverse careers within the arts industry. The curriculum emphasizes both classical and contemporary theatre, encouraging students to explore innovative approaches while appreciating traditional methodologies. state-of-the-art facilities and collaborations with professional theatre companies provide students with real-world experience and networking opportunities. Faculty members are distinguished professionals and scholars committed to mentoring students and fostering creative growth. The program also offers specialized workshops, internships, and production projects, giving students practical skills and industry insights. Graduates of the Theatre Arts program are equipped to pursue careers in theatre, film, television, and other entertainment fields, or to continue their studies in graduate programs. With a vibrant campus community and access to extensive resources, students are encouraged to experiment, collaborate, and challenge conventions, contributing to the dynamic field of performing arts. Whether aspiring actors, directors, designers, or producers, students in this program gain the knowledge, skills, and confidence necessary to succeed and make meaningful contributions to the arts and society.

Students are required to complete 40 credits for the Theater Arts M.A. This includes three graduate seminars, Theater Arts 290A, 290B, and 290C, for a total of 15 credits. These courses are required of all M.A. candidates, whatever their area of emphasis. Students must also complete Theater Arts 293, a 10-credit performance research project that includes a professional internship project. Students may take this course in any quarter in the academic year. This work will have a significant academic component, supervised and assessed by a theater arts faculty member.

Students must also complete the 5-credit Theater Arts 295, Group Critique; 5 units of an Independent Study (Theater Arts 297); and the 5-credit Theater Arts 299, Capstone Thesis.

M.A. students may also take an undergraduate or graduate course in another department as an elective. These courses must be approved by the graduate committee and graduate director each academic year.

There are no teaching requirements for graduate students in the theater arts M.A. program; however, students are encouraged to act as teaching assistants while they are at UC Santa Cruz.

Requirements

• Transcripts. You may upload a scanned copy of your unofficial transcripts to your online application, or send official copies to the Graduate Application Processing address
• Statement of Purpose. Recommended length is a concise 2-4 pages, single-spaced.
• The Personal History Statement is required of all applicants.This statement will be used in conjunction with your application for graduate admission and financial support. Please note that the Personal History Statement should not duplicate the Statement of Purpose.
• A résumé is required for some applications and optional for others.
• All recommendation letters are required to be submitted electronically through the online application.  You must register a minimum of three recommenders, and as many as five, via the Recommendations page of the online application.
• The application fee for the 2016-17 academic year is $105 for domestic applicants and $125 for international applicants. This fee can be paid by credit card or e-check (the e-check option is only available if you have a U.S. bank account). 
• Official GRE scores must be sent from the Educational Testing Service (ETS) to UC Santa Cruz, School Code 4860 (no department code necessary).  Official scores must be received prior to the application deadline.
• If you are a non-native English speaker you will be required to take an English language competency exam.  UC Santa Cruz accepts the TOEFL or IELTS test.  Official scores must also be sent from the testing service to UC Santa Cruz, School Code 4860

Scholarships

• Regents Fellowships. A limited number of these fellowships are awarded to first-year graduate students in master's and doctoral programs. These awards provide a stipend and/or payment of university fees except non-resident tuition.
• Global Education

The University of California offers a comprehensive program in Theater Arts that immerses students in the dynamic and multifaceted world of performing arts. This program is designed to develop students' skills across various disciplines within theater, including acting, directing, stage design, dramaturgy, and theater technology. It aims to foster creative expression, critical thinking, and technical proficiency, preparing graduates for careers in theater production, performance, and related fields. The curriculum combines practical hands-on training with theoretical coursework, ensuring students gain both experience and scholarly understanding of theatrical history, theory, and criticism. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including modern performance spaces, costume shops, and technical labs, allowing them to experiment and refine their craft. The program also encourages student involvement in numerous productions and collaborations, providing real-world experience and building professional networks. Throughout their studies, students learn to analyze scripts, understand stagecraft, and explore diverse theatrical styles and cultural perspectives. The university’s location in California offers additional opportunities through partnerships with local theater companies, internships, and cultural institutions, enriching the educational experience. Graduates of the program often pursue careers as professional actors, directors, stage managers, set and costume designers, dramaturgs, or continue their education in graduate programs. The program emphasizes not only artistic skill but also effective communication, teamwork, and project management, all essential for success in the competitive field of theater. With its blend of tradition and innovation, the UC Theater Arts program prepares students to contribute creatively and critically to the arts community locally, nationally, and internationally.