Program structure

The Master of Arts in Theatre Studies at the University of Malta is a research-intensive program designed to develop advanced scholarly expertise in theatre. The program is structured as follows:

Duration and Credits:

• Full-Time: 3 semesters (approximately 1.5 years)
• Total Credits: 90 ECTS

Program Components:

1. Research Component:

   • Dissertation: Central to the program is an independent research project culminating in a dissertation. Students have the option to submit:
     • A 50,000-word dissertation
     • A 30,000-word dissertation accompanied by a practice-as-research project
   • This component allows students to delve deeply into a specific area of theatre studies, contributing original insights to the field.

2. Taught Component:

   • At the outset, students engage in coursework designed to equip them with essential research methodologies and tools. This foundation supports the development and execution of their research projects.

Supervision and Support:

• Each student is assigned one or more supervisors who oversee the research process, from focusing on an area to planning the work, and researching and writing the dissertation.

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completion of the program, graduates will:

• Acquire in-depth knowledge of their chosen research area within theatre studies.
• Develop advanced research skills, including data collection, analysis, and the application of appropriate methodologies.
• Demonstrate the ability to engage in academic discourse and make informed decisions related to cultural contexts.
• Identify and address ethical considerations pertinent to their research.

This structure ensures a comprehensive educational experience, combining rigorous academic research with practical application, preparing graduates for careers in the cultural industries or further academic pursuits.

Fees and Funding

The Master of Arts in Theatre Studies at the University of Malta has specific tuition fees and funding opportunities for international students:

Tuition Fees:

• Non-EU Applicants: The total tuition fee is €10,800, payable in the first year.

Funding Opportunities:

• Scholarships: The University of Malta offers various scholarships for international students. These include merit-based awards and country-specific scholarships. Prospective students are encouraged to explore these options to support their studies.

• Research Funding: Students engaged in research projects may have access to additional funding opportunities through departmental grants or external research bodies. It's advisable to consult with the Department of Theatre Studies for information on available research funding.

For the most current information on fees and funding, please refer to the University of Malta's official resources or contact the admissions office directly.

Scholarship Guidance

The University of Malta offers several scholarship opportunities for international students pursuing the Master of Arts in Theatre Studies. These scholarships aim to support students in their academic endeavors and alleviate financial burdens.

1. University of Malta Scholarships: The university provides scholarships that may include full or partial tuition fee waivers for Master's by research and Ph.D. programs. These scholarships are awarded based on academic merit and the availability of funds. Prospective students are encouraged to apply early and provide all necessary documentation to be considered.

2. Malta Arts Scholarships: Funded by the Government of Malta, the Malta Arts Scholarships aim to support individuals exceptionally talented in the expressive arts, including theatre studies. These scholarships are available for various academic levels, including undergraduate diplomas, first degrees, joint degrees, and postgraduate qualifications. The scholarship can cover tuition fees up to €20,000, depending on the applicant's qualifications.

3. Postgraduate ISSI Scholarships: Offered through the Islands and Small States Institute, these scholarships are available for students pursuing postgraduate studies related to islands and small states. While not specific to theatre studies, students whose research aligns with the institute's focus areas may be eligible. The scholarship covers tuition fees and provides a research allowance.

Application Process:

• Eligibility: Each scholarship has specific eligibility criteria, often based on academic merit, research proposals, and, in some cases, nationality.
• Deadlines: Application deadlines vary; it's essential to check the specific dates for each scholarship.
• Documentation: Applicants typically need to submit academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a detailed curriculum vitae, and a statement of purpose or research proposal.

Prospective students are advised to consult the University of Malta's official scholarships page and the respective scholarship links provided above for detailed information on eligibility, application procedures, and deadlines. Additionally, contacting the university's admissions office or the specific department can provide personalized guidance and support throughout the application process.

Admission Requirements

To be eligible for the Master of Arts in Theatre Studies at the University of Malta, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Academic Qualifications:

   • Possess a Bachelor's degree with at least Second Class Honours in Theatre Studies or a closely related field.
   • Alternatively, hold a Bachelor's degree in the relevant area with an average mark of not less than 65%.
   • Degrees from other universities may be considered if deemed comparable by the Board.

2. Professional Experience:

   • Applicants with professional qualifications and/or experience in theatre or related areas may be considered. Such candidates might be required to complete a preparatory program to ensure they possess the necessary foundation for the course.

3. Research Proposal:

   • For those applying to the research-focused program, a provisional dissertation title and a detailed research proposal must be submitted with the application. Additionally, a statement from the head of the department confirming the applicant's preparedness for the proposed research is required.

4. Preparatory Program:

   • Applicants who do not fully meet the academic requirements may be admitted conditionally, subject to the completion of a preparatory program. This program includes study units in the relevant area and aims to equip students with the competencies required for research work. The preparatory program ranges from 30 to 60 ECTS credits, and students must achieve an average mark of 55% or better to progress to the Master's course.

Prospective students are encouraged to compare your national qualifications to the local requirements by visiting our qualifications comparability webpage. Access more information about our admission process and English language requirements.

Application Procedure

To apply for the Master of Arts in Theatre Studies at the University of Malta, please follow these steps:

1. Review Admission Requirements:

   • Ensure you meet the academic qualifications, which include a Bachelor's degree with at least Second Class Honours in Theatre Studies or a closely related field.

2. Prepare Application Materials:

   • Research Proposal: Submit a provisional dissertation title and a detailed research proposal outlining your intended area of study.
   • Statement from Department Head: Obtain a statement from the head of the Department of Theatre Studies confirming your preparedness for the proposed research.

3. Submit Online Application:

   • Complete the online application form available on the University of Malta's application portal.

4. Pay Application Fee:

   • An application fee is required; details are provided during the online application process.

5. Await Admission Decision:

   • The admissions office will review your application and notify you of the outcome.

You can submit your application online. The deadlines for submission of applications vary according to the intake and courses. We encourage all international applicants to submit their applications as soon as possible. This is especially important if you require a visa to travel and eventually stay in Malta.

For detailed information on the application process, please visit the official course page.