PhD in Theatre and Performance

Tuition comes to 32,840 ZAR per year; the application deadline for the Oct 2027 intake is Feb 28, 2027.

The PhD in Theatre and Performance is a 3-year doctoral degree for students with a Master's degree, offered at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, in English. It helps students develop advanced research skills in theatre and performance.

The curriculum covers specific subjects like theatre history, performance theory, and dramatic literature, with hands-on components such as directing, playwriting, and acting. Students also develop skills in critical thinking, writing, and research methods.

Graduates can pursue careers as Theatre Directors, Performance Artists, Drama Teachers, or Arts Administrators, working in theatres, schools, or cultural institutions. They may also work as Critics or Researchers in the field of theatre and performance.

The University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, known as Wits, is a prominent research-intensive university founded in 1922 and located in one of Africa’s most vibrant cities. With a student body exceeding 42,000 and a diverse international community, Wits offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across humanities, sciences, engineering, health sciences, and business. Its urban campus provides access to cultural institutions, industry partners, and public sector organizations for experiential learning.

Wits is recognized for rigorous research and strong professional programs, offering 322 distinct programs that combine theoretical depth with practical training. The university’s academic environment supports innovation through research centers, clinical training partnerships, and industry collaborations that help students build professional networks. International students benefit from dedicated support services, orientation programs, and resources to assist with visas, accommodations, and academic advising, helping them integrate into campus life and pursue career ambitions.

Campus life at Wits is dynamic, with active student societies, sporting opportunities, and cultural events that reflect Johannesburg’s diversity. Graduates join a broad alumni network and often find career pathways in South Africa and abroad. Prospective students should explore program-specific entry requirements, funding and scholarship options, and early engagement with faculty to tailor their study plans to research interests or professional objectives.