Playwriting
The Master of Arts in Playwriting provides students with an intensive, creative, and professional education in the art and craft of writing for the stage. The program emphasizes character development, narrative structure, dialogue, and dramatic storytelling, enabling students to produce compelling and original theatrical works. Students develop expertise in scriptwriting, dramaturgy, and performance analysis, equipping them to create plays that resonate with contemporary audiences. Through workshops, staged readings, and collaborative projects, learners gain practical experience in refining their work, receiving feedback, and understanding the dynamics of theater production.
Over the three-year program, students engage in rigorous coursework, applied projects, and mentorship experiences that enhance both creative and analytical skills. The curriculum covers advanced writing techniques, adaptation, collaborative creation, and the business of theater, providing a comprehensive foundation for professional practice. By integrating applied creative work with theoretical study, students develop competencies in story development, play production, and dramaturgical research. This approach prepares graduates to contribute effectively to theaters, production companies, educational institutions, and literary organizations, fostering innovation, professionalism, and artistic excellence.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Playwriting
- Degree Type: Master of Arts
- Duration: 3 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 27 November 2025
- Location: Yale University, United States
- Field of Study: Creative Writing
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Playwriting
• Introduction to Dramatic Writing
• Character and Dialogue Development
• Script Analysis and Reading
• Workshop in Creative Collaboration
Year 2 – Intermediate Writing & Production
• Advanced Playwriting Techniques
• Adaptation and Storytelling Methods
• Collaborative Theater Projects
• Staged Readings and Feedback Sessions
Year 3 – Advanced Practice & Capstone
• Professional Playwriting Projects
• Applied Dramaturgy and Script Editing
• Capstone Production / Thesis
• Industry Internship and Portfolio Development
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in writing, theater production, and creative arts management. Career opportunities include positions in theater companies, television and film writing, literary agencies, educational institutions, and arts administration organizations. Graduates may also pursue roles in dramaturgy, script editing, play production, and creative consulting. The program equips students with strong writing, analytical, and collaborative skills, enabling them to develop original works, guide productions, and contribute to storytelling across multiple platforms. With expertise in playwriting, graduates are well-prepared to influence contemporary theater, support cultural initiatives, and advance creative industries.
Why Choose This Program
This program is ideal for students seeking a rigorous, immersive education in playwriting, offering a curriculum that emphasizes creative storytelling and professional development. Its three-year structure provides opportunities for workshops, collaborative projects, and staged productions, allowing learners to integrate theoretical knowledge with practical writing experience. Through mentorship, feedback sessions, and capstone productions, students acquire the expertise, creative skills, and professional confidence necessary to craft compelling narratives, manage theatrical projects, and innovate within the performing arts. Graduates leave prepared to pursue careers in writing, theater production, and the creative arts, making meaningful contributions to the cultural landscape.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 203 432 2300
Email: admissions@yale.edu
Address: University of Yale, New Haven, CT 06520, United States
