Overview

The Performance Studies M.A. programme at New York University offers a streamlined and intellectually rigorous curriculum designed to be completed in a single academic year. By engaging with performance as both an object of study and a lens for social analysis, students develop a sophisticated understanding of how the body produces meaning in various cultural contexts.

Why Performance Studies at New York University?

This programme is uniquely positioned within the Tisch School of the Arts, allowing students to bridge the gap between technical artistic training and deep theoretical engagement. The accelerated two-semester format is specifically structured to enhance professional timelines, allowing graduates to enter the job market or apply for doctoral programmes with a competitive edge. Students benefit from a faculty of leading international scholars who specialise in areas such as critical race studies, gender and queer studies, and dance theory.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 76646 per year
National fee: USD 76646 per year
Local fee: USD 76646 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum consists of 34 credits divided equally between the autumn and spring terms. Modules may include:

Performance Studies
Projects in Performance Studies
Drama Electives
Performance Theory
Critical Race Studies
Gender and Queer Studies

Careers with Performance Studies

Graduates are well-prepared for a diverse range of professional paths within the global arts and academic sectors. Many alumni pursue doctoral-level training in fields such as theatre, dance, or communication studies. Others transition into successful careers in arts management, administration, and education. The programme also supports those working in grant-writing, media, and arts-related policy work, as well as practicing artists like choreographers and directors who wish to integrate performance theory into their creative practice.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Performance Studies

Projects in Performance Studies

Theatre

Dance

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-02 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-15 00:00:00

Language

English

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Credits

34 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

New York City, United States

Disciplines

Drama View 255 other Masters in Drama 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

Duolingo English Test

125

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TOEFL^® IBT

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PTE Academic

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IELTS

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AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

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98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Standardized Test Information – GMAT or GRE (and TOEFL if required);

Transcripts & Degrees;

Professional Information;

Essays;

EQ endorsements must be submitted online;

International Student Supplement.

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

76646 USD / year

≈ 76646 USD / year
Out-of-State

76646 USD / year

≈ 76646 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

76646 USD / year

≈ 76646 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.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Performance Studies.

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

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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