Masters

On-Campus

Dra­maturgy and play­writ­ing

The Theatre Academy Helsinki

About

The Master’s Programme in Dramaturgy and Playwriting at Uniarts Helsinki offers an in-depth exploration of dramaturgy and playwriting, emphasizing both theoretical understanding and practical application. Students engage in stage work and develop a comprehensive view of dramaturgy as the cohesive the elements of a play, performance, or event.

Key Features:

  • Comprehensive Curriculum: The program covers playwriting, comparative dramaturgy, and scriptwriting for various media, including radio, television, film, and new media. It also delves into theurge across different performing arts sectors.

  • Collaborative Learning Environment: Students work closely with peers from other degree programs, such as acting, directing,...

The Master’s Programme in Dramaturgy and Playwriting at Uniarts Helsinki offers an in-depth exploration of dramaturgy and playwriting, emphasizing both theoretical understanding and practical application. Students engage in stage work and develop a comprehensive view of dramaturgy as the cohesive the elements of a play, performance, or event.

Key Features:

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Overview

The Master’s Programme in Dramaturgy and Playwriting at Uniarts Helsinki is a transformative two-year program focused on equipping students with the skills and knowledge to navigate and redefine the roles of dramaturges and playwrights in contemporary arts. By integrating theoretical frameworks with hands-on stage work, the program enables students to explore and innovate within traditional and experimental forms of storytelling.

Students benefit from an interdisciplinary environment, working alongside peers from acting, directing, and design programs to gain a well-rounded perspective on theater production. Through critical inquiry and creative experimentation, the curriculum prepares graduates to create impactful works for the stage and screen, develop new dramaturgical methods, and adapt their skills across a variety of artistic and professional contexts. This program nurtures versatile professionals ready to engage with the evolving demands of the performing arts industry.

Program structure

The Master’s Programme in Dramaturgy and Playwriting at Uniarts Helsinki is a two-year, full-time program designed to deepen students' understanding of dramaturgy and playwriting through both theoretical study and practical application. The curriculum emphasizes the role of dramaturgy as the cohesive logic that unites various elements of a performance, encouraging students to engage critically with art and theater.

Key Features:

  • Comprehensive Curriculum: The program covers playwriting, comparative dramaturgy, and scriptwriting for various media, including radio, television, film, and new media. It also explores the roles of a dramaturge across different performing arts sectors.

  • Collaborative Learning Environment: Students work closely with peers from other degree programs, such as acting, directing, and design, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and a holistic understanding of theater production.

    University of the Arts Helsinki

  • Emphasis on Critical Thinking: The program encourages students to question and experiment with art and theater, promoting a spirit of inquiry and research in their artistic endeavors.

  • Professional Development: Graduates are equipped to work as playwrights, dramaturgeand performance artists, with the versatility to switch between roles and perspectives in various professional contexts.

This program is ideal for individuals seeking to deepen their understanding of dramaturgyhile engaging in practical stage work and interdisciplinary collaboration.

For more information, visit the Dramaturgy and Playwriting, Master page.

Fees and Funding

The Master’s Programme in Dramaturgy and Playwriting at Uniarts Helsinki has specific tuition fees and funding opportunities for students.

Tuition Fees:

  • EU/EEA and Swiss Citizens: No tuition fees are charged.

  • Non-EU/EEA Citizens: An annual tuition fee of €12,000 applies.

Scholarships and Funding:

  • Uniarts Helsinki Scholarships: The university offers scholarships to cover tuition fees for non-EU/EEA students. These are awarded based on academic merit and financial need.

  • Finnish Government Scholarships: Available for students from certain countries, these scholarships can assist with living expenses.

  • External Funding: Students are encouraged to seek scholarships from foundations and organizations in their home countries or international bodies.

Scholarship Guidance

Uniarts Helsinki offers scholarships and financial aid to support talented international students pursuing the Master’s Programme in Dramaturgy and Playwriting. These scholarships aim to reduce the financial burden of tuition fees and living expenses, making the program accessible to deserving students worldwide.


Scholarship Opportunities

1. Tuition Fee Waivers

  • Eligibility: Open to non-EU/EEA students required to pay tuition fees.
  • Scholarships may cover:
    • 100% of the tuition fee (full waiver).
    • 50% of the tuition fee (partial waiver).

2. Helsinki Scholarship

  • Offered to exceptional students based on artistic merit and academic performance.
  • Benefits include:
    • Full tuition fee waiver.
    • A grant of €5,000 to support living expenses during the first year of studies.

3. External Scholarships

  • Students are encouraged to seek additional funding from:
    • Finnish Government Scholarship Pool (for eligible countries).
    • Private organizations and cultural foundations that support arts education.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Open to non-EU/EEA students enrolled in the program.
  • Scholarships are awarded based on:
    • Academic and artistic excellence.
    • Financial need (for specific scholarships).
    • Motivation and alignment with the program's objectives.

How to Apply

1. Indicate Scholarship Interest

  • When completing your program application on the Studyinfo Portal, specify your interest in applying for scholarships.

2. Submit Required Documents

  • Academic transcripts and certificates.
  • A motivation letter detailing your financial need, artistic goals, and reasons for seeking funding.
  • Portfolio showcasing your creative work in dramaturgy or playwriting.

3. Review and Notification

  • Scholarships are awarded based on a thorough evaluation of the applicant's qualifications, artistic potential, and financial need.
  • Decisions are announced alongside admission results.

Key Deadlines

  • Scholarship applications are submitted alongside program applications (typically November to January).
  • Scholarship results are communicated in April.

Further Information

These scholarships provide significant financial support, enabling international students to focus on their artistic and academic growth during the program.

Admission Requirements

Admission to the Master’s Programme in Dramaturgy and Playwriting is designed to identify individuals with strong creative potential, academic ability, and a commitment to the art of writing and dramaturgy. The process evaluates applicants’ artistic vision, practical skills, and readiness to contribute to the evolving field of dramaturgy.


General Admission Requirements

1. Educational Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s Degree:
    • A degree in playwriting, theater, performing arts, literature, or a related field.
    • Relevant professional experience may be considered in lieu of formal qualifications in exceptional cases.

2. Language Proficiency

  • English Proficiency is required for courses conducted in English:
    • IELTS Academic: Minimum overall score of 6.5.
    • TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 92.
    • PTE Academic: Minimum score of 62.
  • Finnish or Swedish proficiency is required for courses offered in these languages.

Evaluation Criteria

  • Artistic Merit: Quality, originality, and creativity demonstrated in the portfolio and artistic tasks.
  • Motivation and Fit: Alignment of goals with the program’s objectives.
  • Collaboration Skills: Ability to work effectively in a team and interdisciplinary settings.
  • Critical Thinking: Capacity for reflection and inquiry in dramaturgical and creative processes.

Key Deadlines

  • Application Period: Typically from November to January for programs starting in autumn.
  • Artistic Task and Interview: Scheduled between February and March.
  • Results Announcement: Admissions decisions are communicated in April.

Further Information

This admissions process ensures that candidates possess the creativity, academic rigor, and motivation necessary to succeed in the program.

Application Procedure

The application process for the Master’s Programme in Dramaturgy and Playwriting is structured to evaluate applicants’ creative potential, academic abilities, and commitment to advancing their artistic practice. The program seeks individuals who demonstrate a strong interest in dramaturgy, playwriting, and interdisciplinary collaboration.


Steps to Apply

1. Submit an Online Application

  • Applications must be submitted via the Studyinfo Portal.
  • Select the Master’s Programme in Dramaturgy and Playwriting and complete all required sections.

2. Upload Required Documents

  • Degree Certificates and Transcripts:
    • Certified copies of your bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification.
  • Portfolio:
    • A collection of your creative work in dramaturgy or playwriting. Include samples such as scripts, plays, or other relevant texts showcasing your skills and artistic vision.
  • CV/Resume:
    • Highlight academic background, artistic achievements, and professional experience.
  • Motivation Letter:
    • A 1–2 page letter detailing your reasons for applying, your artistic goals, and how the program aligns with your aspirations.
  • Proof of Language Proficiency:
    • Submit English, Finnish, or Swedish language test scores unless exempt.

3. Complete Artistic Tasks

  • Applicants may be required to complete specific artistic tasks or creative assignments. These tasks are designed to assess your approach to dramaturgy, storytelling, and creative problem-solving.

4. Attend an Interview

  • Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview with the selection panel to discuss:
    • Their portfolio and artistic work.
    • Their vision and goals for dramaturgy and playwriting.
    • Their readiness to contribute to and benefit from the program.

Evaluation Criteria

  • Artistic Merit: Originality and quality of work in the portfolio and artistic tasks.
  • Motivation and Fit: Clear alignment of the applicant’s goals with the program’s objectives.
  • Critical Thinking: Ability to analyze and conceptualize dramaturgy and storytelling.
  • Collaboration Skills: Readiness to engage in interdisciplinary and collaborative projects.

Deadlines

  • Application Period: Typically November to January for programs starting in autumn.
  • Artistic Tasks and Interviews: Conducted between February and March.
  • Admission Results: Communicated in April.

Application Fee

  • No application fee is required for this program.

Further Information

This application process ensures the selection of candidates who demonstrate strong artistic potential, academic rigor, and a commitment to creative and professional growth.

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