The PhD in Performance Studies is a four-year program. In the first two years of study, students develop an understanding of twentieth and twenty-first century performance by drawing from a range of regular course offerings in the field to identify, explore, and define a field or fields of research. Students are required to complete four core courses out of five. Each individual program is then built from seminar and practice as research courses, as well as independent or group studies in the department, including those in acting, directing, design and choreography. Courses may also be taken in other departments (for example Comparative Literature, Technocultural Studies, English, Music), and designated emphases are available in Critical Theory, and Feminist Theory and Research.

Progression

When students enter the program they are mentored by a First Year Advisor suggested by the PhD Program Faculty. At the end of the first year students are reviewed by the PhD Program Faculty and decide, in consultation with Faculty, upon a major professor (who may be the same as their First Year Advisor). This review consists of a take-home examination covering any required courses offered that year, a statement of purpose, and performance in seminars. Students holding a BA and admitted to the MA Program may apply to progress to the PhD upon successful completion of the First Year Review.

At the end of the second year, the PhD Program Faculty meet to carry out an advisory review. This review considers the student’s performance in coursework, a preliminary reading list for the qualifying examination, and an outline draft of the dissertation prospectus.

In the fall quarter of the third year, students present the dissertation prospectus to the PhD Program Faculty for approval, and take the qualifying examination. On passing the qualifying examination, students are formally eligible for Advancement to Candidacy, and write the dissertation.