Overview

The Playwriting programme at The City University of New York is designed to foster the next generation of theatrical voices through rigorous creative exploration. Students engage with a curriculum that emphasises the development of original scripts and the understanding of contemporary performance practices.

This course is situated within the School of Arts and Sciences, providing a robust academic framework for creative development. The university offers a supportive environment where writers can experiment with different forms and techniques under the guidance of experienced faculty members.

The City University of New York provides students with access to a wide range of academic services to support their writing journey. These include the Dr. Murray and Anna C.

Why Playwriting at The City University of New York?

The university is renowned for its commitment to the arts and its vibrant community of scholars and creators. Students benefit from the institution's strong links to the performing arts sector and its location in a global cultural hub, which provides unparalleled inspiration for dramatic writing.

Facilities such as the Performing and Fine Arts Venues allow students to see their work in context and engage with the wider artistic community. The programme is part of a diverse academic ecosystem that encourages interdisciplinary collaboration and the exploration of social and cultural themes through theatre.

The City University of New York maintains a high standard of academic excellence, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for the professional world. The institution's mission focuses on providing accessible, high-quality education that empowers students to contribute meaningfully to their chosen fields.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 10260 per semester
National fee: USD 10260 per semester
Local fee: USD 5545 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Careers with Playwriting

Graduates of this programme are equipped to pursue various roles within the theatre and entertainment industries. Potential career paths include working as professional playwrights, script editors, or dramaturges for theatre companies and production houses.

The skills gained during the course are also highly transferable to sectors such as film, television, and digital media. Many alumni find success in creative writing, arts administration, or education, leveraging the analytical and communication skills developed throughout their studies.

The university's Career Center provides dedicated support to help students transition from academia to professional practice. This includes guidance on portfolio development and networking opportunities within the creative industries to enhance graduate employability.

Programme Structure

Courses included:

MFA Playwriting I: The One-Act Play
MFA Playwriting II: The Full-Length Play
MFA Playwriting III: Adaptation
MFA Production Workshop
History of Theatre
Play Analysis

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 24 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-08-28 00:00:00

Application deadline not specified.
Starting 2027-01-04 00:00:00

Application deadline not specified.
Starting 2027-05-28 00:00:00

Application deadline not specified.

Language

English

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Credits

36 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

New York City, United States

Disciplines

Creative Writing View 381 other Masters in Creative Writing in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

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IELTS

6.5

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Other requirements

General requirements

Applicants to the Rita and Burton MFA in playwriting are required to have a bachelor’s degree; they must submit two letters of recommendation and a full length play or a one act play of at least 40 pages, both as hard copy and as a PDF attachment.
An interview is strongly recommended. (Only matriculated students will be eligible to take MFA courses.) Admission will be decided by the Acting Director of the program and the Chair.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

20520 USD / year

≈ 20520 USD / year
Out-of-State

20520 USD / year

≈ 20520 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

11090 USD / year

≈ 11090 USD / year

Living costs

New York City

United States

1819 - 3968 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Playwriting.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

On this page

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

New York City

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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