Program Overview
The Directing at University of Alberta is a Master programme in Humanities over 24 months, delivered On-campus. This programme equips graduates with advanced knowledge and practical skills for professional and academic careers in the field.
Students gain a rigorous grounding in both the theoretical foundations and applied dimensions of humanities. The programme combines coursework, research components, and practical projects that develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and specialist expertise relevant to industry and research needs.
Graduates of the Directing programme are well-prepared for careers in academia, industry, government, and the private sector across Canada and internationally. The programme provides an internationally recognised qualification within the Bologna higher education framework.
Key Program Features
- Duration: 24 months
- Language of instruction: English
- Study mode: On-campus
- Tuition: EUR 6,422 (Tuition (Year)) — International students; EUR 3,686 (Tuition (Year)) — National students
- Location: Edmonton, Canada
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Directing programme are prepared for diverse careers in humanities:
- Researcher / Academic
- Cultural Programme Manager
- Editor / Writer
- Translator / Interpreter
- Museum Curator
- Communications Specialist
Program Curriculum
Course Structure
- A two-year, plus thesis MFA Directing program
- More directing opportunities than most other programs; primarily a series of workshops and directing experiences - 4 specialist directing seminars plus the thesis production and process
- In depth seminars on a variety of forms and theatrical approaches with other grad students
- 2 people accepted per year
- Successful applicants are creative artists who aim to extend their knowledge and enhance their approaches to theatrical interpretation and creation
- Directing essentials
- Directing various kinds of texts and theatrical styles
- Working with designers and other members of the collaborative team
- Working in various staging configurations
- Rehearsal process tools
- Leadership
- Collaboration skills
- Orientation to the professional landscape
Admission Requirements
Academic Requirements
Official transcripts from all universities attended
3 letters of recommendation
Letter of intent outlining why you want to pursue a professional directing degree, where you see yourself after this program, and any other articulation of your ambitions, skills, experiences and interests.
Portfolio including a CV and/or resume and commentary and/or documentation of your theatre work. Directorial preparation of one of these plays: Hedda Gabler (Ibsen), Silence (Moira Buffini), Harlem Duet (Djanet Sears), East of Berlin (Hannah Moskovitch), or Stone and Ashes or In the Eyes of Stone Dogs (Daniel Danis). The directorial preparation should include a production concept and a study of major characters, story and/or dramatic action, with emphasis on one or two key scenes. It is not necessary to include a prompt book.
Short listed applicants will be interviewed by phone, Skype or in person.
TOEFL or IELTS score, when applicable
Note: the MFA Directing Coordinator will be pleased to discuss the program and facilities with you. Dont hesitate to contact her as you consider your application.
Tuition & Financial Information
Tuition Fee
EUR 6,422 (Tuition (Year)) — International students; EUR 3,686 (Tuition (Year)) — National students
Tuition fees: EUR 6,422 (Tuition (Year)) — International students; EUR 3,686 (Tuition (Year)) — National students
Financial Aid & Scholarships
Contact University of Alberta directly for scholarship, grant, and financial aid information for this programme. Many European universities offer merit-based and need-based funding for international and domestic students.
About University of Alberta
University of Alberta
Edmonton, Canada
public research university in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
University Profile- Application Deadline Feb, 2027
- Start Date Sep, 2026
- Language English
- Duration 24 months
