Dramaturgy and Dramatic Criticism

Catherine Sheehy, Chair
M.F.A. and D.F.A.

 

Students in this department receive intensive training to prepare for careers in three areas: to work in theaters as dramaturgs, artistic producers, literary managers, and in related positions; to work in theater publishing as critics and editors as well as in other capacities; to teach theater as practitioners, critics, and scholars. At the core of the training are seminars in literature, theory and criticism, and history to impart a comprehensive knowledge of theater and dramatic literature. Students are trained in topics in institutional dramaturgy, including the formulation of artistic policy and its communication and implementation, and as production dramaturgs, operating within the rehearsal process.

Upon completion of the M.F.A. program, students are eligible to register to remain in residence for one year in which they may formulate a dissertation proposal and apply to the Doctor of Fine Arts program. Upon acceptance, the student is expected to complete the dissertation within three years.

 

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All students in degree and certificate programs receive full tuition scholarships.

67% of current students receive need-based aid for living expenses.

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Production Opportunities

Students apply theory to professional practice in production work at the School, Yale Rep, and Yale Cabaret.

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Student Groups

Coalition-building and networking among students who share common interests, goals, and/or a self-identified background.

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Working Alongside Your Teacher

Student Perspectives

Working Alongside Your Teacher

Taking a Leap

Student Perspectives

Taking a Leap

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Program News

headshot of Evan Yionoulis
Apr 07, 2026

Welcome Home, Evan!

Evan Yionoulis (’85, ’82 B.A.) has been appointed the next Elizabeth Parker Ware Dean of David Geffen School of Drama and Artistic Director of Yale Repertory Theatre, effective July 1.

Mass-Performance-cover
Sep 29, 2025

Dr. Kimberly Jannarone Publishes New Book on Mass Performance

Jannarone’s book creates a category of thought for spectacular large-scale events with thousands of people.

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