Theatre, PhD

E-mail: theatrefilm@bgsu.edu

The doctoral program in Theatre at Bowling Green State University emphasizes the connection of theatre and performance studies scholarship to artistry, and their application in pedagogical and other professional contexts.  Students are engaged in a course of study grounded in a thorough understanding of Theatre Performance History, Disciplinary and Interdisciplinary Theories, and Research Methods.  Practically, the course of study aims to prepare graduates to conduct original research, to teach, to consider the application of advanced theatre studies skills in contexts beyond the academy, and to participate in theatre production in a range of capacities.  While the mission of the department is to prepare theatre studies graduates who approach the theory and practice of theatre and performance in an integrated manner, it should be understood that the primary emphasis of any doctoral program in the arts focuses on historical, theoretical, and pedagogical approaches to the subject matter rather than solely or even predominantly on artistic practice.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the Ph.D degree, students in the Theatre program are expected to be able to:

• Analyze diverse performance texts from various historical periods and cultural backgrounds.
• Demonstrate fluency in the theories, criticisms, and research methodologies in the interdisciplinary fields of theatre and performance.
• Use performance as the site and process for critical, cultural, and historical understandings. 
• Develop the ability to collaborate in theatre production as a dramaturg, actor, director, designer and/or technician. 
• Communicate and present knowledge as a scholar-artist-citizen in professional formats.
• Develop teaching skills suitable for university-level or equivalent contexts. 
• Develop and carry out a publishable research project. 

Admission Requirements

Documents required:

• Three Letters of Recommendation
• Professional Resume
• Statement of Purpose
• Writing Sample

Please refer to your program’s webpage for specific details about the nature and content of the additional documents required.

International applicants are required to submit scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), or the Pearson Test of English Academic (PTEA). Successful completion of ELS 112 will also be accepted for this requirement. 

Additionally, Duolingo test scores will be accepted for applications through Summer 2025. Applicants of the Graduate College who have completed a previous degree (associate, bachelor’s master’s or doctorate) from a U.S. college/university or are from a country (click here for a complete list) in which instruction was delivered in English (and attended the university for at least two years) are exempt from providing these test scores.

Application Requirements

Admissions Categories and Grade Point Average Requirements

International Application Information

Degree Requirements