Message from the Director of Graduate Studies, Dr. Maria Beach

Our department offers a Master of Arts degree (MA) in Theatre, which prepares students for entrance into terminal degree programs or professional careers.  Oklahoma State University MA students work academically and artistically in a small, supportive graduate program.  One strength of our MA program is that many of our students are offered opportunities to gain teaching experience—something that is often reserved for students in MFA/PhD degree programs elsewhere.   All of our regular faculty have terminal degrees and continue to work professionally in theatre or pursue scholarship nationally and internationally. Guest artists frequently work on our productions, teach workshops, and present lectures, expanding students’ opportunities to learn and make professional contacts.

Our MA degree requires academic classes in theatre history/theory and dramatic literature, as well as practical courses in directing and dramaturgy. There are two tracks that a student may select: the thesis or the creative component.  Students who opt to complete a creative component may select from the areas of performance, directing, or dramaturgy.   Beyond the core and the thesis/creative component, students select elective courses to craft an individualized plan of studies. In order to encourage interdisciplinary connections, all MA students also take at least one approved course outside the theatre department. To see the MA degree program, click here.

Applying to OSU’s MA program is a two-part process: some materials go to the Graduate College and other materials should be sent to the Theatre Department. To see an application checklist, click here. The priority deadline for application for admission for the fall semester is March 1.  The priority deadline for students applying for spring admission is October 15.  We will continue to consider applications after these dates. Applicants are strongly encouraged to come to OSU to interview, visit classes, and meet our current graduate students. Students who wish to pursue creative components in performance or directing will also audition as part of their interviews. If traveling to OSU is not feasible then we will make alternate arrangements.

Thank you for your interest in pursuing graduate work in theatre at Oklahoma State University.  Prospective students who are interested in our program should contact me at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .  For answers to some frequently asked questions, click here.