MA in Theatre and Performance

MA in Theatre and Performance at the Iceland University of the Arts is a two-year programme designed for contemporary theatre and performance makers interested in enhancing their skills and knowledge in playwriting, directing, performance making, or choreography. Students choose one of these specialities at the start of their studies and specialise within that field. 

The first year of the programme focuses on students gaining knowledge and skills in the performing arts and on developing their artistic approaches. The second-year centres on each student's individual research and creative processes and the programme supports them as they develop their own artistic thinking and skills. Emphasis is placed on enhancing students’ critical and creative approaches to the medium, combining theory and practice, and giving rise to versatile points of view that challenge and deepen the students' artistic thinking.

Each student develops their own methods and approaches to theatre and performance making through a variety of courses, artistic and theoretical projects and inquiry peer exchange, mentorship and public engagement. It culminates with each student developing a self-defined final project based on their specialisation. Graduates earn 120 ECTS credits and are prepared to pursue PhD-level artistic research or take an active, independent role within the theatre and performing arts field.

Based in Iceland, the programme is closely connected to the local performing arts scene, with close ties to theatres, festivals, and independent venues.  

Application deadline: March 2, 2026.

Further information on the curriculum and learning outcomes can be found here. 

Information on admission requirements, the application and admission process can be found here.