Program Overview
The Ph.D. in Theatre program equips students with advanced knowledge in theatre history, literature, theory, and criticism. Students develop research interests, complete a dissertation, and prepare for careers in research, teaching, and scholarship.
Program Outline
- Objectives: The program aims to equip students with advanced knowledge and skills in theatre history, dramatic literature, theory, and criticism.
- Description: The Ph.D. in Theatre program is designed for students with a strong foundation in theatre who want to pursue careers in research, teaching, and scholarship. Students will work closely with faculty to develop their research interests and complete a dissertation.
Outline:
- Curriculum: The curriculum includes a minimum of 81 credit hours past the BA (excluding a minimum of nine dissertation hours).
- Minimum Requirements:
- MA or MFA can count for up to 30 hours.
- Nine to 12 credit hours in minor.
- Three credit hours outside of major and minor (7000) level.
- Three credit hours in non-Western theatre, art, or culture.
- Three credit hours in THTR 7900 Introduction to Graduate Study in Theatre.
- Six credit hours in theory sequence (THTR 7924 and THTR 7925).
- 15 hours in literature and history (THTR 7901, THTR 7902, THTR 7903, THTR 7904, THTR 7912, THTR 7913, THTR 7914).
- Three credit hours in THTR 7920 Seminar in Drama of the African Diaspora.
- Three credit hours in a Women’s and Gender Studies course.
- Three credit hours in a pedagogy-focused course.
- Three credit hours of electives.
- Nine credit hours for dissertation (THTR 9000).
- Satisfy reading capability of foreign language.
- Successfully defend prospectus.
- Structure:
- Course Schedule:
- Annual Review: Every spring semester, students submit reports on their curricular, production, and scholarly work for faculty review.
- General Exams: Successful completion involves:
- Two four-hour comprehensive written exams, including:
- First exam - primarily short answer (general breadth—content questions from the areas of Theater History/Practice, Dramatic Literature, and Theory/Criticism).
- Second exam - broader essays, three out of four (integrative—address important issues in Theater Studies through an integrated approach utilizing historical, critical, and literary analysis).
- Professional Competencies/Portfolio: Students must submit a portfolio including:
- Statement of teaching philosophy.
- Book and/or performance review.
- Updated professional C.V.
- Prospectus Writing and Defense:
- Specialty question (written research project).
- Creation of dissertation committee.
- Prospectus defense with dissertation committee.
- Final Defense: Students must successfully defend their dissertation orally before committee members and submit it to the Graduate School.
Assessment:
- Annual Review: Students are assessed annually on their curricular, production, and scholarly work.
- General Exams: Students are assessed through comprehensive written exams and professional competencies/portfolio submission.
- Prospectus Defense: Students are assessed on their prospectus writing and defense.
- Final Defense: Students are assessed on their oral dissertation defense.
Louisiana State University
Overview:
Louisiana State University (LSU) is a top research university located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. It is known for its academic excellence, vibrant community, and commitment to serving the state. LSU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including agriculture, art & design, business, engineering, law, and medicine.
Services Offered:
LSU provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:
Academic Advising:
The Center for Advising & Counseling offers guidance on academic planning, course selection, and career exploration.Disability Services:
The Disability Services office provides accommodations and support for students with disabilities.Student Health Center:
The Student Health Center offers medical care, mental health services, and wellness programs.Financial Aid & Scholarships:
LSU offers a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans.Campus Safety:
LSU has a dedicated campus police force and provides resources for student safety and security.Residential Life:
LSU offers a variety of on-campus housing options for students.University Recreation:
The University Recreation department provides opportunities for fitness, recreation, and intramural sports.Campus Dining:
LSU offers a variety of dining options on campus, including restaurants, cafes, and convenience stores.Career Services:
The Olinde Career Center provides resources for career exploration, job searching, and internship opportunities.Student Life and Campus Experience:
LSU offers a vibrant and engaging campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in a wide range of activities, including:
Student Organizations:
Over 400 student organizations provide opportunities for students to connect with others who share their interests.Greek Life:
LSU has a strong Greek life system with a variety of fraternities and sororities.Student Government:
The Student Government Association represents the interests of students and provides opportunities for leadership development.Campus Events:
LSU hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, sporting events, and cultural programs.Key Reasons to Study There:
Academic Excellence:
LSU is a top research university with nationally recognized programs in various fields.Research Opportunities:
LSU offers a wide range of research opportunities for students, including undergraduate research.Vibrant Community:
LSU has a strong sense of community and offers a variety of opportunities for students to get involved.Location:
LSU is located in Baton Rouge, a vibrant city with a rich history and culture.Career Preparation:
LSU provides excellent career preparation resources, including career counseling, job fairs, and internship opportunities.Academic Programs:
LSU offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Undergraduate Programs:
LSU offers over 100 undergraduate majors across various disciplines.Graduate Programs:
LSU offers over 100 graduate programs, including master's degrees, doctoral degrees, and professional degrees.Online Programs:
LSU offers a variety of online degree programs, including bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, and graduate certificates.Other:
LSU is committed to serving the state of Louisiana and has a strong focus on research and economic development. The university has a significant economic impact on the state and is a leader in areas such as agriculture, biomedicine, coastal studies, defense, and energy.