Abstract
This article examines graduate education as preparation for professional life in the twenty first century, focusing on theatre practice and academia. Through argumentative reflection, it surveys Master of Arts, Master of Fine Arts, and doctoral programs, assessing their capacity to develop expertise in acting, directing, design, and pedagogy while supporting career advancement within commercial theatre, regional theatre, and higher education. Discussion highlights curricular breadth, mentoring, financial constraints, and administrative perceptions of terminal degrees, noting the differing tenure, promotion, and salary prospects associated with each credential. By mapping apprenticeship options alongside formal study, this article underscores the need for informed advising that matches individual talent, career goals, and evolving labor market demands. It concludes that strategic program selection, enriched by experiential learning and interdisciplinary minors, equips graduates to navigate competitive artistic, scholarly, and organizational environments.
Recommended Citation
Weiss, David W.
(1991)
"Choices: Graduate Education as Preparation for Life in the 21st Century,"
Association for Communication Administration Bulletin: Vol. 77, Article 8.
Available at:
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/aca/vol77/iss1/8
