Master of Fine Arts in Writing for Theatre and Media
The Master of Fine Arts in Writing for Theatre and Media is a three-year terminal graduate degree designed for students who are passionate about developing the professional-level skills necessary to create narratives from concept to production. Students prepare for their careers as professional writers by learning how to think critically about society and how to approach current issues such as diversity, inclusion, access and modern theatre theory. With a focus on the collaborative process, students develop advanced storytelling techniques through writing-intensive coursework and in co-curricular programming. Creating production-ready content is at the core of this program and to this end, students have many opportunities to witness their work being brought to fruition by AMDA’s student performers on the stage and screen. Graduates complete the program having created a portfolio of professional pieces, preparing them to enter the business of writing for theatre and media.
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Steps for Admission into the Master of Fine Arts in Writing for Theatre and Media
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Completion of the AMDA Graduate Degree Application +−
Students who are qualified to apply for this program will:
- Have a passion for the arts and a strong desire to contribute to the field
- Be committed to actively supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion amongst our community and beyond
- Hold a completed undergraduate degree at time of enrollment
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Statement of intent for graduate study +−
In 250 words or less, please explain your goals for engaging with the program, if admitted. Please submit your statement to graddocs@amda.edu or click the button below.
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Writing portfolio +−
Please submit a sample of writing materials that includes examples of original dramatic work. A minimum of two completed pieces, which could include written work from undergraduate degree or independently written pieces. Please submit your documents to graddocs@amda.edu or click the button below.
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WRITING SAMPLE RESPONDING TO PROMPT +−
In 300-500 words, please respond to one of the prompts below. Please submit your writing sample to graddocs@amda.edu or click the button below.
- Option 1) What is the role of the artist in society and what makes you want to be a storyteller and creator?
- Option 2) Tell us about a powerful work of theatre, film or television that has inspired you to create and describe its impact on your artistry.
- Option 3) What type of stories do you want to tell and through which artistic mediums?
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Interview with an AMDA representative +−
Once you have completed your application, an AMDA representative will reach out to you by phone to discuss your interests, background, and experiences related to the focus of this program.
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Reference letters +−
Three reference letters from people who have known the applicant for two years or longer, such as instructors, directors or faculty advisors, or employers (but not a friend or family member). Reference letters may be emailed to graddocs@amda.edu or mailed to the address below and should note the relationship of the writer to the applicant.
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Official transcripts +−
Please submit transcripts for completed undergraduate degree and any graduate coursework attempted or completed.
AMDA Records
211 West 61st Street
New York, NY 10023
Program Learning Outcomes
AMDA students within the MFA in Writing for Theatre and Media program will achieve the following program learning outcomes.
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- Advanced skills in dramatic construction: Demonstrate the ability to create texts that effectively incorporate dramatic strategies and structures.
- Concept to script: Demonstrate the ability to cultivate an idea from concept to finished product.
- Script to production: Demonstrate the ability to edit a script through the process of collaboration to final production.
- Interdisciplinary competency: Demonstrate a command of interdisciplinary research and practice through written and oral presentation.
- History, theory, and criticism: Acquire an advanced understanding of theatre history, theory, and criticism as it reflects current and historical discussion and debate and apply knowledge to the production of creative pieces.
- Cross-cultural responsibility: Exhibit a command of cross-cultural analysis, demonstrating a grasp of global perspectives and cross-cultural conversations.
- Research: Engage in original, focused research pertaining to their field of study.
- Professional writing: Demonstrate key professional capacities related to writing for performance, including effective communication skills, technology literacy, and an understanding of professional ethics and best practices.
Curriculum
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Summary of Required Courses
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Advanced, Analytical & Academic Theatre Studies
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Advanced, Analytical & Academic Theatre Studies, Elective
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Writing Internship
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Total Program Credit Hours
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39.0
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12.0
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9.0
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60.0
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Sample curriculum
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| Seminar in Theatre History3 |
| Theatre and Media Writing: Collaboration3.0 |
| Theatre and Media Writing: Research and Application3.0 |
| Total Credits9.0 |
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| Seminar in Theories of Drama and Theatre3.0 |
| Writing Workshop Lab 16.0 |
| Total Credits9.0 |
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| Writing Internship3.0 |
| Total Credits3.0 |
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| Seminar in Critical Race Theory3 |
| Theatre and Media Writing: Dramaturgy3.0 |
| Theatre and Media Writing: Readings, Analysis and Adaptation3.0 |
| Total Credits9.0 |
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| The Business of Writing for Theatre and Media3.0 |
| Writing Workshop and Lab 26.0 |
| Total Credits9.0 |
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| Writing Internship3.0 |
| Total Credits3.0 |
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| Seminar in Queer and Gender Theory3 |
| Advanced Design, Technology and Production3.0 |
| Writing Workshop Lab 33.0 |
| Total Credits9.0 |
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| Theatre and Media Writing: Contemporary and Future Media3.0 |
| Writing Workshop Lab 46.0 |
| Total Credits9.0 |
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| Writing Internship and Thesis Project3.0 |
| Total Credits3.0 |
| Total Program Credits60.0 |
