The MFA (Theatre and Dramatic Arts) program offers intensive studio-based training and creative research opportunities in theatre, performance and interdisciplinary artistic practice.

Faculty expertise includes scripted and devised performance, theatre for young audiences, theatre education, design and technical production, dramaturgy and theatre history.

Small cohort sizes provide students with exceptional opportunities for mentorship, collaboration and individualized creative development in:

• Design
• Performance
• Technical Direction and Production
• Playwriting and Dramaturgy

The Faculty of Fine Arts is committed to providing competitive financial support to graduate students through a combination of awards and assistantships. The MFA in Theatre and Dramatic Arts is a two-year full-time studio program of applied and academic study.  

Funding opportunities include:

• University of Lethbridge Graduate Research Award (ULGRA)
  • Eligible students are offered ULGRA as part of their admission into their program, up to a maximum of $21,000 per year.
• Graduate Assistantships (teaching/non-teaching)
  • Students are offered this funding opportunity with offers of admission, with assistantships valued at $3,916.51 for a full GA, and $1,958.25 for a half GA, as of 2026.

Program Facilities and Equipment

Students work in professionally equipped performance, production, and studio spaces within the University Centre for the Arts. The Department of Drama produces mainstage productions, student-run studio productions and numerous other theatre events. The Department’s activities are supported by outstanding theatre facilities, shops and studios.

• 450-seat proscenium arch mainstage University Theatre
• Multi-configurable black box theatres
• Performance lab, rehearsal studios, greenroom and dressing rooms
• Scenic and lighting studios
• Scene shop with a range of tools
• Prop shop for design and construction
• Costume labs
• Dye and craft room
• Electrics area
• Sound recording studio

Program Requirements

During the first year, students complete coursework and studio development. In the second year, students focus on thesis research and production.

The required courses for MFA (Theatre and Dramatic Arts) majors are:

• Drama 5148 - Graduate Studio I (6.0 credit hours)
• Drama 5149 - Graduate Studio II (6.0 credit hours)
• One of:
  • Drama 5150 - Graduate Theatre Studies (Series) (3.0 credit hours)
  • Drama 5211 - Graduate Seminar in Theories of Theatre (3.0 credit hours)
• Two electives at the 5000 level (6.0 credit hours)