New York City,
NY,
United States
Type
Private
Degrees offered
Bachelor's Degree
PhD in Performance Studies in New York United States | New York University
New York University
|
New York United States
Visit institution website
for more information
Qualification
Doctor of Philosophy
Languages
English
Delivery Mode
On-Campus
Tuition (2025)
USD
44,802
Attendance
Full-time
Full-time Duration
48 months
As the pioneering standalone doctoral program in performance studies (and remaining among just a handful globally), NYU Performance Studies earned the top spot in the National Research Council's evaluation of theater and performance studies PhD programs. Our alumni hold faculty positions at prestigious universities worldwide, produce critically acclaimed publications, and drive innovation in the discipline.
Each year, we admit only four students who benefit from personalized mentorship, specialized training, and an extensive five-year fellowship covering full tuition, fees, health insurance, and a living stipend. First-year PhD candidates receive additional startup funding for academic materials and housing expenses. For specific inquiries about financial support, please contact the Department directly. The Performance Studies PhD program operates under the Tisch School of the Arts, with degrees awarded by NYU's Graduate School of Arts and Science.
Destination of Study
Subjects of Study
Language Requirements
English
IELTS 6.0
Qualification Requirements
The Ph.D. program in Performance Studies is small and rigorous. It offers intensive training for students who wish to become the new leaders of the field. The Tisch Performance Studies program accepts up to four new students a year. Ph.D. students begin full-time enrollment in September.
A previously earned master's degree is required for applicants wishing to enter directly into the doctoral program. A completed M.A. or M.S. is generally required for consideration. Applicants holding an MFA or M.MUS degree, who have a strong academic training background in performance theory may be considered on a case by case basis.
In addition to the general Tisch Graduate Application, we ask that you prepare the following:
A statement of purpose (three to five double-spaced pages, maximum) that addresses
a) your specific research interest in the field of Performance Studies (opening paragraph),
b) why you are applying to this program (and not a more traditional program such as anthropology, dance, or theatre), and
c) how your academic, professional, and/or artistic background make you an ideal candidate for the program.
d) A brief description of your proposed dissertation topic and how the department/faculty will help you achieve your academic goals.
A critical writing sample (10-15 double-spaced pages, maximum) that reflects your ability to carry out sustained academic research and writing, preferably one that relates to the field of Performance Studies.
Two letters of recommendation, preferably from faculty who are familiar with your recent academic work.
All academic transcripts
A professional r'sum listing academic background, work experience, honors, affiliations with professional organizations, papers presented at conferences, published work, etc.
We accept test scores from the following:
TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language Internet-Based Test). We will accept results from the in-person version or the iBT Home Edition.
Duolingo English Test
IELTS Academic (International English Language Testing System)
A previously earned master's degree is required for applicants wishing to enter directly into the doctoral program. A completed M.A. or M.S. is generally required for consideration. Applicants holding an MFA or M.MUS degree, who have a strong academic training background in performance theory may be considered on a case by case basis.
In addition to the general Tisch Graduate Application, we ask that you prepare the following:
A statement of purpose (three to five double-spaced pages, maximum) that addresses
a) your specific research interest in the field of Performance Studies (opening paragraph),
b) why you are applying to this program (and not a more traditional program such as anthropology, dance, or theatre), and
c) how your academic, professional, and/or artistic background make you an ideal candidate for the program.
d) A brief description of your proposed dissertation topic and how the department/faculty will help you achieve your academic goals.
A critical writing sample (10-15 double-spaced pages, maximum) that reflects your ability to carry out sustained academic research and writing, preferably one that relates to the field of Performance Studies.
Two letters of recommendation, preferably from faculty who are familiar with your recent academic work.
All academic transcripts
A professional r'sum listing academic background, work experience, honors, affiliations with professional organizations, papers presented at conferences, published work, etc.
We accept test scores from the following:
TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language Internet-Based Test). We will accept results from the in-person version or the iBT Home Edition.
Duolingo English Test
IELTS Academic (International English Language Testing System)
Tuition
USD
44,802