61 Master's Programs in Performing Arts in North America

Specializations within performing arts

Top universities for Performing Arts in North America

Ranked by how many performing arts programs each one runs in North America — the count is next to the name.

• University of Houston (7)
• Fairleigh Dickinson University - Vancouver (5)
• Illinois State University (4)
• California Institute of the Arts (4)
• University of Maryland, College Park (4)
• University of Idaho (3)
• Tulane University (2)
• The University of Memphis (2)
• Fort Hays State University (2)
• Temple University (2)

January intake in North America

15 of these programs list a dated January start that is still ahead. Dates come from each listing — confirm on the program page before planning around one.

• Master in Acting, MFA — University of Iowa · starts Jan 2027
• Master in Acting — DePaul University, Chicago · starts Jan 2027
• Master in Dance, M.F.A. — The University of North Carolina at Greensboro · starts Jan 2027
• Master in Dance MFA — Temple University · starts Jan 2027
• Master in Theatre (Acting) — University of Houston · starts Jan 2027
• Master in Dance, MFA — University of Iowa · starts Jan 2027

Masters (MS) in Performing Arts in North America: common questions

How many performing arts programs are there in North America?

61 performing arts masters programs at 34 universities in North America are open to international students, as of 11 October 2026.

How much does a performing arts degree in North America cost?

The median annual fee (programs billed per year) for master's programs in performing arts in North America is 31,856 USD. The middle half of those programs charge between 27,788 USD and 36,100 USD a year.

Can I study performing arts in North America in English?

Yes — 100% of the performing arts programs in North America in our catalog are taught in English (61 of 61).

Are any of these performing arts programs available online?

1 of the 61 programs in North America are delivered online or by distance learning.