Program Overview
The Theatre and Performance Studies at University of Pittsburgh is a MA programme in Arts & Design over 18 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 arts & design. 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 Theatre and Performance Studies programme are well-prepared for careers in academia, industry, government, and the private sector across United States and internationally. The programme provides an internationally recognised qualification within the Bologna higher education framework.
Key Program Features
- Duration: 18 months
- Language of instruction: English
- Study mode: On-campus
- English requirement: IELTS 7
- Tuition: USD 35,904 (Tuition (Year)) — International students; USD 21,748 (Tuition (Year)) — In-State students
- Location: Pittsburgh, United States, United States
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Theatre and Performance Studies programme are prepared for diverse careers in arts & design:
- Creative Director
- Graphic / UX Designer
- Art Director
- Curator
- Visual Artist
- Media Producer
Program Curriculum
Course Structure
- Year-long graduate course in the History of Theatre
- Materials and Methods of Research in Theatre Arts
- One course in technical theatre (can be waived)
- One course in performance (can be waived)
- Six additional courses in dramatic literature, theatre history, criticism, or theory
Admission Requirements
Academic Requirements
We recommend that you explore the Graduate section of our site and read the online Graduate Handbook (PDF) before applying.
The University of Pittsburgh requires online applications for graduate programs. Before applying, please review the following list of required materials, as well as the following paragraphs describing admissions procedures for each of our graduate programs.
Three academic writing samples
Curriculum vitae
Transcripts of undergraduate and graduate study (see Note below)
Current GRE Scores
Three letters of recommendation
Non-US citizens: TOEFL or IELTS scores
English Proficiency: IELTS 7 or equivalent.
Tuition & Financial Information
Tuition Fee
USD 35,904 (Tuition (Year)) — International students; USD 21,748 (Tuition (Year)) — In-State students
Tuition fees: USD 35,904 (Tuition (Year)) — International students; USD 21,748 (Tuition (Year)) — In-State students
IELTS requirement: 7
Financial Aid & Scholarships
Contact University of Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh
University of Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, United States
state-related research university located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
University Profile- Application Deadline Jan, 2027
- Start Date Sep, 2026
- Language English
- Duration 18 months
