Monash University: University Handbooks: Postgraduate handbook 2004: Units indexed by faculty
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Postgraduate handbook 2004
Arts

Master of Theatre (1.5-year program)

Program code: 3753 + Clayton + Coordinator: Rachel Fensham

Synopsis

Students will gain a creative and critical understanding of current theatre practice, including its history, production, reception and other cultural and aesthetic issues that inform its ongoing evolution. While focused on theatre in professional, community and educational contexts, the program will also engage with cultural diversity in the local and global environment and encourage interdisciplinary approaches to the theory and practice of theatre and performance. Teaching will be based in the theatre and rehearsal spaces of the Monash Performing Arts Building.

Entry requirements

The minimum requirement for entry is ONE of the following:

Exit points

After successful completion of 24 points, students may apply to exit the program with a Graduate Certificate in Arts, or after successful completion of 48 points with a Graduate Diploma in Theatre.

Course structure

The coursework program offers two streams designed to give students an opportunity to (a) increase their knowledge of theory and practice in contemporary theatre whether for the purposes of teaching or community work, including the option of a research project ;and ( b) develop skills relevant to the professional performing arts industry.

The duration of the course is normally three semesters full-time or six-semesters part-time, although there are opportunities for substantial credit for those students with relevant professional experience or equivalent higher degree study. Some teaching will occur in block mode during mid or summer-semester breaks.
Students undertake units to the value of 48 points at level 4, consisting of two core units (24 points) and 24 points of electives. At level 5, students take 24 points of electives.
The course offers two primary sequences of study:

1. Coursework with research project option

The coursework with research project option places greater emphasis on the combination of theory and performance practice to theatre studies. This option would suit those wishing to upgrade their skills and knowledge of historical and contemporary theatre but not those intending to continue with further study. The possibility of undertaking an extended research project at fifth-year level will provide students in this stream with an opportunity to undertake advanced analytical work if they choose.

Level 4 core unit
Level 4 electives
Level 5 core unit
Level 5 electives
2. Coursework and professional practice

The second involves coursework and an understanding of professional research with an emphasis on interpretation of contemporary theatre. This option would suit those who wish to develop a more advanced knowledge and understanding of the professional industry and whose written appreciation of theatre needs further development.

Core unit level 4
Level 4 electives
Core unit level 5
Level 5 elective

Other units within the school or faculty, such as CLS4760 (Gender body performance), may be accredited as electives with approval from the course coordinator.

Minimum pass grade

To graduate with the Master of Theatre, students must gain a credit in core units and a credit average overall.

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