Overview

The Theater Studies degree at the University of California, Santa Barbara provides an immersive academic environment for students dedicated to the performing arts. This programme integrates theoretical analysis with practical insights to prepare graduates for diverse roles within the global creative industries.

Students benefit from the university's commitment to excellence in the humanities and fine arts. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking and creative expression, ensuring that every participant develops a sophisticated understanding of how performance shapes and reflects contemporary society and historical contexts.

The department serves as a vibrant hub for artistic innovation, encouraging students to engage with complex narratives and diverse cultural perspectives.

Why Theater Studies at the University of California, Santa Barbara?

Choosing this programme means joining a distinguished academic community known for its interdisciplinary approach to the arts. The university provides a unique setting where students can collaborate across different creative fields, enhancing their educational experience through a variety of perspectives and methodologies.

The institution is recognised for its high-quality facilities and its role as a leading research centre in California. Students are encouraged to explore the intersections of drama and history, benefiting from the university's extensive library resources and its reputation for fostering intellectual curiosity and professional growth in the arts.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 14430 per year
National fee: USD 14430 per year
Local fee: USD 14430 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum covers a broad range of topics essential for a deep understanding of the dramatic arts. Modules may include:

Theater and Performance
Drama and Society
Performance Theory
Stagecraft
Dramatic Literature
Theatre History
Acting
Directing
Design for Performance
Global Theatre Traditions
Script Analysis
Modern Drama
Technical Production
Collaborative Process

Careers with Theater Studies

Graduates from this programme are well-equipped to pursue a wide array of professional paths within the arts and beyond. Many alumni find success in traditional theatre roles, including acting, directing, and stage management, while others apply their skills in film, television, and digital media production.

The analytical and communication skills developed during the course are also highly valued in sectors such as education, arts administration, and public relations. Graduates often secure positions in cultural organisations, non-profit foundations, and creative agencies, contributing to the development and promotion of the arts on a global scale.

Programme Structure

Courses

History of Modern Dance

Summer Modern Dance

Beginning Ballet

History of Appreciation of World Dance

Choreography

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-09-21 00:00:00

Application deadline not specified.

Language

English

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Credits

30 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Santa Barbara, United States

Disciplines

Modern History Drama View 62 other Masters in Modern History 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

120

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TOEFL^® IBT

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IELTS

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98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

In addition to departmental requirements for admission, applicants must also meet the university requirements for admission described in the section “Graduate Education at UCSB.”

Candidates for admission to the Ph.D. program must hold a M.A. or M.F.A. degree from UC Santa Barbara or another accredited institution.

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

14430 USD / year

≈ 14430 USD / year
Out-of-State

14430 USD / year

≈ 14430 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

14430 USD / year

≈ 14430 USD / year

Living costs

Santa Barbara

United States

1640 - 2480 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 Theater 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

Santa Barbara

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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