Report an accessibility problem

Theatre (Theatre for Youth and Community), MFA

Theatre (Theatre for Youth and Community), MFA

Academic programs / Graduate degrees / Theatre (Theatre for Youth and Community), MFA

Community, Creativity, Education, arts, children, theater, theatre

Do you have a passion for youth, community, activism, pedagogy and the performing arts? Develop your skills and knowledge in these areas under the mentorship of award-winning faculty in this internationally respected program.

Program description
Degree awarded: MFA  Theatre (Theatre for Youth and Community)

Students in the MFA program in theatre with a concentration in theatre for youth and community study with distinguished faculty; engage in comprehensive coursework; and participate in hands-on experiences in all areas of theatre-making with, by, and for young people and communities. Students hone their skills and knowledge in artistry, facilitation and pedagogy in a challenging and supportive atmosphere, developing cutting-edge artistry, engagement and teaching.

At a glance
Degree requirements

60 credit hours including the required applied project course (THP 693), a written comprehensive exam and an oral comprehensive exam

This is a three-year program.

Required core courses are supplemented by elective courses in an emphasis area, which are focused on preparation for suitable career paths and options. An internship with a professional theatre company, school or arts organization and a final applied project complete the program.

Additional information on degree requirements for this degree is available on the curriculum check sheet located at the bottom of the school's program page.

Admission requirements

Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts.

Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree in any field from a regionally accredited institution.

Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program, or applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.

All applicants must submit:

  1. graduate admission application and application fee
  2. official transcripts
  3. School of Music, Dance and Theatre Application, along with a current curriculum vitae, statement of purpose and a work sample
  4. three letters of recommendation
  5. proof of English proficiency

Additional Application Information
An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency.

Applicants should thoroughly review application deadlines and requirements on the department's website.

This highly competitive program accepts only a small number of students each year to provide highly individualized attention.

The statement of purpose should clearly explain the applicant's aesthetic and educational philosophies and future career goals. After reading the statement, the faculty should understand not only the applicant's current passions but also why the theatre for youth and community program at ASU would be an appropriate fit to meet the student's educational, practical and scholarly goals. The program accepts thoughtful, well-informed artists, scholars, educators and citizens.

The three letters of recommendation should be from professionals familiar with the applicant's work.

Tuition information
When it comes to paying for higher education, everyone’s situation is different. Students can learn about ASU tuition and financial aid options to find out which will work best for them.
Application deadlines
SessionModalityDeadlineType
Session A/CIn Person 01/15Final
Program learning outcomes

Program learning outcomes identify what a student will learn or be able to do upon completion of their program. This program has the following program outcomes:

  • Students will be able to create new performances, processes and solutions in their core areas of practice (including: theatre for and with youth, education and curriculum design, community-based theatre, civic practice, applied theatre and theatre for social justice).
  • Students will be able to apply relevant theoretical and critical frames for the assessment of theatre and drama for and with youth and communities in relevant contexts such as K-12 schools, universities, professional and amateur theatres, community centers and applied theatre contexts.
  • Students will be able to apply key skills, discourses and organizational strategies of their chosen area of specialization to the creation of new projects or partnerships with existing organizations, such as schools, arts organizations, government entities or other relevant partners.
Career opportunities

Graduates are prepared to be engaged and innovative leaders in a variety of careers in diverse settings and industries, including:

  • arts entrepreneurship
  • community arts
  • elementary, secondary and tertiary education systems
  • professional theater
  • youth theater

Examples of careers include:

  • activist
  • director
  • facilitator
  • organizer
  • practitioner
  • specialist
  • teacher
Contact information
What are accelerated programs?
Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.

3 year programs

These programs allow students to fast-track their studies after admission and earn a bachelor's degree in three years or fewer while participating in the same high-quality educational experience of a 4-year option. Students should talk to their academic advisor to get started.

Accelerated master's

These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).

Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
What are concurrent programs?
Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.
What are joint programs?
Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.

What constitutes a new program?
ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the “New Programs” option.
What are online programs?
ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.
What is WRGP (Western Regional Graduate Program)?
The Western Regional Graduate Program (WRGP) provides a reduced tuition rate to non-resident graduate students who qualify. Visit the WRGP/WICHE webpage for more information: https://graduate.asu.edu/wiche.

click back to top