Frequently Asked Questions

• Should I apply to the MA, the MA/PhD, or the PhD program?
• Where do I send my supplementary materials?
• Do you require any GRE test other than the general test?
• Is there a separate application for funding?
• What kind of writing sample should I send?
• Whom should I contact with additional questions?

Should I apply to the MA, the MA/PhD, or the PhD program?

Apply for the MA if this one-year, intensive program is what you seek, and if you do not currently intend to continue toward the Ph.D.

If you currently hold a Bachelor's degree and do intend to continue toward the PhD, then you should apply for the MA/PhD. Please note: because the on-line application offers no "MA/PhD" designation, you should select "PhD" and then indicate in your statement of purpose that you are applying for the MA/PhD.

If you have a Master's degree in Performance Studies or a related field (Anthropology, Cultural Studies, English, Theatre, Speech Communication, and others), then apply for the PhD.

Where do I send my supplementary materials?

All materials except for transcripts can be submitted electronically. These should be sent to:

Department of Performance Studies
Northwestern University
1920 Campus Drive
Evanston, IL 60208

Do you require any GRE test other than the general test?

No.

Is there a separate application for funding?

No.

What kind of writing sample should I send?

We are looking for a sample of scholarly writing, on any subject, of sufficient length to demonstrate your ability to develop an idea thoroughly (typically 5-20 pages).

Whom should I contact with additional questions?

• Alan Shefsky, Department Assistant
• D. Soyini Madison, Director of Graduate Studies