Graduate school is an amazing way to increase your knowledge and skills. However, it is not always needed for a successful career, especially in art-based fields. Whether or not you should go to graduate school depends on what your future career or study goals are.
When is Graduate School Needed?
Most students going to graduate school for theatre production pursue an MFA (Master of Fine Arts) in Technical Theatre, Theatre Design or Theatre Technology and Engineering. In each category, students:
- Build crucial networking connections that may not have been made in undergraduate studies.
- Learn advanced technology or programs that may not have been studied in prior programs.
- Take on leadership positions to prepare for leadership in the field.
What if I Don’t get a Master’s Degree?
Not earning a master’s degree in theatre production is common. It is the standard practice of most theatre production students. Most students, unless they want to study more advanced technology or construction, decide to go right into the job field after graduation. Sometimes, but not always, students will work for a few years before deciding to earn a master's degree.
Because theatre production is a talent and experience based major, going straight into the workforce is strongly encouraged in comparison to earning a master’s degree right after undergraduate studies. There can be both financial and experiential benefits to waiting for further education.
For example, some companies will invite their employees to earn a master’s degree in exchange for paying for the employee’s tuition.
It might also be beneficial to start a career and boost your resume in order to improve your chances of being accepted to graduate school. Some graduate programs give full scholarships, which often means the application process is more competitive.
Conclusion
While some students do go on to earn a master’s degree, not all of them do. Most entry and mid-level careers in theatre production value experience, a professional portfolio, and a reliable professional network over a graduate degree. Many students find successful careers with just their undergraduate experience. Either way, studying theatre production can lead to a fun, fulfilling career.
Sources:
MFA Plan of Study: Technical Direction - College of Liberal Arts - Purdue University
Home - David Geffen School of Drama at Yale
Application Deadlines and Fees - David Geffen School of Drama at Yale
Theatre Technology M.F.A.: Design & Technology M.F.A.: Graduate: Department of Theatre, Drama, and Contemporary Dance: Indiana University Bloomington