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Arts & Humanities

Theatre and Drama (PhD) at Northwestern University

Northwestern University, United States

Programme overview

The Interdisciplinary PhD in Theatre and Drama is a cross-school programme spanning the Humanities, Social Sciences and Visual and Performing Arts, combining scholarly research training with pedagogical skill development.

Faculty: School of Communication  |  Department: Interdisciplinary Theatre and Drama  |  Duration: Funded for five years  |  Study mode: full-time  |  Location: Evanston, IL, United States

What you will study

Coursework across the programme's disciplines and an individualised research plan with faculty mentorship.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Seeks students with strong research promise; backgrounds in theatre, dance or performance are welcome. Students receive a tuition scholarship and living stipend for five years, including summers. Northwestern Graduate School (TGS) English proficiency minimums for international applicants: TOEFL iBT 90 (tests taken before 21 Jan 2026), IELTS Academic 7.0, MET 61. Duolingo and TOEFL Essentials are not accepted; individual programmes may set higher minimums.

Requirements published at program group level.

Tuition is charged per credit, so the total depends on the modules you register for each year. Current fees are listed in the official fee schedule.

Graduate applications for 2026-27 open September 15, 2026; deadlines vary by programme. The Graduate School application fee is $95 and nonrefundable, paid by credit or debit card.

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