THEATRE EDUCATION AND APPLIED THEATRE

What can you do with an MA or MFA in Theatre Education and Applied Theatre?

With an MA or MFA degree in Theatre Education and Applied Theatre, you can pursue various careers and opportunities. You’ll be equipped to teach theatre and drama in a variety of settings, develop and implement theatre programs in educational, non-profit, and community-based institutions, or facilitate the use of theatre techniques for personal and/or communal growth, healing and/or justice. This degree will also help with licensing based on the state where you conduct business. Additionally, you can explore roles in community engagement, arts administration, and for the Applied Theatre track, support organizations and communities to use theatre and the arts to support and amplify social justice work.

Tech Knowledge

In the future, you may want to familiarize yourself with some of this information for certain jobs. When you’re ready to research future positions after graduation, review job descriptions to identify which technologies you may need to be familiar with. 

  • Audio-Visual Equipment: Understanding how to operate and integrate audio and video equipment is crucial for modern theatre productions and educational settings.
  • Theater Lighting Systems: Knowledge of lighting equipment and software used in theatrical productions and how to create different lighting effects.
  • Digital Media Production: Skills in video editing, sound production, and multimedia design for creating promotional materials or educational resources.
  • Educational Software: Proficiency with software and tools for lesson planning, curriculum development, and student assessment. This also includes learning management systems and online teaching tools for virtual or hybrid teaching environments.
  • Drama and Theater Software: Specialized software and tools for scriptwriting, set design, and virtual staging can be valuable in an educational or production context.
  • Community Engagement and Communication Tools: Skills in communication and collaboration platforms to engage with community stakeholders, students, and participants.
  • Database and Administrative Software: Proficiency in software used for managing administrative tasks, such as student records, scheduling, and financial management.

The specific technologies you’ll need to know can vary depending on your role and the particular focus of your work within Theatre Education and Applied Theatre. Staying updated with the latest advancements in relevant software and hardware can be essential to adapt to changing educational and production needs.

Competencies and Skills

A combination of competencies and soft skills is essential for success in Theatre Education and Applied Theatre. Here are some key competencies to know:

  • Pedagogical Knowledge: Understanding educational principles and strategies to effectively teach theatre and drama concepts and/or use theatre methods to facilitate community reflection, dialogue, and action.
  • Theatre Production Skills: Proficiency in various aspects of theatre production, such as directing, devising, stage design, lighting, sound, and costume design.
  • Curriculum Development: The ability to create, adapt, and implement curriculum plans for theatre programs at various educational levels and/or in various community settings
  • Community Engagement: Skills in engaging and collaborating with diverse communities and organizations for applied theatre projects.
  • Script Analysis: The ability to critically analyze and interpret scripts for performance and educational purposes.
  • Adaptation and Creativity: The capacity to adapt to different situations and think creatively to address challenges in teaching and production.
  • Research and Evaluation: Conduct research on theatre education and applied theatre and use evaluation methods to assess program effectiveness.

Additionally, skills in this field include effective communication, collaboration, and empathy to connect with students, actors, and community members while fostering understanding and teamwork. Adaptability, problem-solving, and cultural sensitivity are also important, allowing professionals to navigate the dynamic nature of theatre and effectively address challenges in a diverse, multicultural context. Leadership, emotional intelligence, and self-reflection further enhance the ability to inspire and guide teams, manage emotions, and continuously improve teaching and artistic practices.

Sample Job Titles with an MA or MFA in Theatre Education and Applied Theatre

Recent graduates with a Theatre Education and Applied Theatre MA or MFA can explore various job opportunities in education, theatre production, and community engagement. Here are some sample job titles suitable for recent graduates in this field:

  • Theatre Educator: Teaching theatre and drama at elementary, middle, or high schools.
  • Drama Teacher: Specializing in drama instruction within an educational setting.
  • Teaching Artist: Collaborating with schools and organizations to deliver arts-based educational programs.
  • Education and/or Community Engagement Associate: Supporting and developing education and/or community engagement work at theatre organizations
  • Assistant Director: Supporting the director in theatre productions’ creative and logistical aspects.
  • Arts Administrator: Managing the operations of theatre companies, educational programs, or arts organizations.
  • Community Engagement Coordinator: Facilitating community outreach programs and events using theatre.
  • Program Coordinator: Managing and coordinating theatre and drama programs in educational or community settings.
  • Youth Theatre Director: Overseeing theatre programs and productions geared towards young performers.
  • Scriptwriter or Playwright: Creating scripts for educational or theatrical purposes.
  • Casting Director: Responsible for casting actors in theatre productions.
  • Artistic Director: Leading and shaping the artistic vision of a theatre company or educational institution.
  • Drama Camp Counselor: Supervising and instructing children and young adults in drama camps or workshops.
  • Theatre Outreach Specialist: Developing and implementing theatre programs aimed at specific communities, such as youth or seniors.

These job titles represent a range of opportunities for recent graduates in Theatre Education and Applied Theatre, and the specific roles may vary depending on the level of education and experience of the individual. It’s important to consider your interests and career goals when pursuing a specific job title in this field.

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