Theatre Studies (PhD)
Study and contribute to the rich history and theory of theatre in a practical environment that fosters the development of innovative and creative research in the field of theatre studies.
The PhD in Theatre Studies offers training and mentorship from leading theatre scholars and professionals to support the development of a research project that marks an original contribution to the field of theatre studies.
A diverse range of faculty expertise, course offerings, training opportunities, and resources (including access to theatre-related primary sources at the University of Victoria and BC Archives) supports the PhD student’s development of a distinct research program that can relate to a range of topics—from Greek tragedy to Broadway musicals, dance to opera, Indigenous theatre to theatre technology.
Students are encouraged to discuss their research interests with a potential supervisor.
| Expected length | Project or thesis | Course-based |
|---|---|---|
| 5 years | Yes | No |
Quick facts
- Program options:
- Doctorate
- Study options:
- Full-time study
- Program delivery:
- On-campus
- Dynamic learning:
- Co-op optional
Outcomes
Students in this program will:
- demonstrate an in-depth understanding of an extensive body of knowledge that is at the forefront of the field of theatre studies
- conduct expert original research that marks a significant contribution to the field, of a quality to satisfy peer review and merit future publication
- defend research contributions before a panel of senior experts
- model professional and personal responsibility and collegiality, especially ethical behaviour that is consistent with academic integrity and conduct
- practice effective time management, personal initiative, self-reflexivity and creative problem solving
Find a supervisor
PhD students must have a faculty member who serves as their academic supervisor. When you apply:
- you must list a potential supervisor on your application
- this faculty member must agree to be your supervisor and recommend your admission
- include an email from your supervisor with your application
To find a supervisor, review the faculty contacts. When you’ve found a faculty member whose research complements your own, contact them by email.
Alexandra (Sasha) Kovacs
Assistant Professor Theatre History: theatre and performance history, historiography, Canadian theatre, theatre archives, devised performance, dramaturgy
Allana Lindgren
Professor Theatre History: dance history, theatre history, modernism, Canadian cultural history
Conrad Alexandrowicz
Professor Performance: acting, movement for actors, devised theatre
Kirsten Sadeghi-Yekta
Associate Professor Applied Theatre: language revitalization and theatre, aesthetics of theatre, ethics of theatre, community projects, devising for performance
Peter J. McGuire
Assistant Teaching Professor Performance: acting, directing, production and management, self-directed
Tony Vickery - Chair
Teaching Professor Theatre History: especially commercial theatre finance and business administration in the United States and Canada, melodrama and British and North American theatre of the 19th and 20th centuries
Yasmine Kandil
Associate Professor Applied Theatre: celebratory theatre, applied theatre in post-revolution Egypt, forum theatre, ethics of practice, theatre for development, community-based theatre, theatre for social change, immigrant & refugee theatre, scenario training with police officers
Show me program details
Providing you accurate admission requirements, application deadlines, tuition fee estimates and scholarships depends on your situation. Tell us about yourself:
Your program details
Application deadlines
September – apply by February 1
All supporting material must be submitted to the Department of Theatre by February 1.
September – apply by February 1
All supporting material must be submitted to the Department of Theatre by February 1.
Admission requirements
Program specific requirements
As part of your application, you must submit:
- a statement of purpose which includes your interests and aspirations in the field, including any special areas of interest, and how they relate to the specifics of this program
- a detailed resumé of your educational background, theatre experience and teaching experience (if applicable)
- a writing sample that speaks to your academic excellence
- two reference names and their email addresses (references should come from theatre professors and/or recognized theatre professionals.)
Program specific requirements
As part of your application, you must submit:
- a statement of purpose which includes your interests and aspirations in the field, including any special areas of interest, and how they relate to the specifics of this program
- a detailed resumé of your educational background, theatre experience and teaching experience (if applicable)
- a writing sample that speaks to your academic excellence
- two reference names and their email addresses (references should come from theatre professors and/or recognized theatre professionals.)
Completion requirements
Funding & aid
Tuition & fees
Estimated minimum program cost*
* Based on an average program length. For a per term fee breakdown view the tuition fee estimator.
Estimated values determined by the tuition fee estimator shall not be binding to the University of Victoria.
Ready to apply?
You can start your online application to UVic by creating a new profile or using an existing one.
Faculties & departments
Need help?
Contact Connie te Kampe at theatre@uvic.ca or 250-721-7991.