Theatre of Diversity, Inclusion, and Social Change (Certificate)
The certificate in Theatre of Diversity, Inclusion, and Social Change prepares students to be agents of change in educational and professional theatrical arenas. Emphasizing the relationship between what happens on stage and what happens in the world around us, this program promotes an embodied and intellectual understanding of theatre as a catalyst for empathy, empowerment, and action. We welcome teachers, artists, administrators, critics, community organizers – those with theatre and interdisciplinary backgrounds who are committed to equality, diversity, and access in the arts.
Situated in the context of The Department of Theatre & Dance’s MA in Theatre, which centers on core classes in theatre history, theory and dramatic literature, the certificate in Theatre of Diversity, Inclusion, and Social Change adds to an emphasis on global and interdisciplinary perspectives. New courses for the certificate add to an expansive range of elective offerings that provide training in criticism and applied theatre. The flexible curriculum links theatre theory and history to stage practice and allows students to tailor course selections to individual goals.
Small classes, independent study options, and courses grounded in current professional and theoretical perspectives promote student research and practice. Our proximity to NYC allows us to attract an outstanding full-time faculty and prominent guest artists who work closely with students each semester.
Montclair State University is also home to the internationally recognized Kasser Theatre’s Peak Performances, where graduate students have the opportunity to connect with the work of internationally renowned artists.
Along with the graduate certificate in Theatre of Diversity, Inclusion, and Social Change, the department also offers the Theatre (MA), Concentration in Theatre Studies program.
Please refer to our programs of study page for a comprehensive list of all of the graduate programs offered within the university.
*Students seeking an F1/J1 visa are not eligible for this certificate program unless they are currently pursuing a master’s degree at Montclair State University and are able to simultaneously pursue both programs while maintaining their student visa requirements.
The Office of Graduate Admissions requires the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor’s degree in order to be eligible to apply for a graduate program. Applicants with non-U.S. degrees, please visit the International Applicants page to review the U.S. degree equivalency information.
In order to make applying for graduate school as seamless as possible for you, we have
created an application checklist. This checklist can be a reference point for you during the
application process to ensure that you have a comprehensive understanding of the steps
needed to apply, as well as all corresponding supplemental materials for your specific
program of interest.
- Application Deadline: Rolling Admission
- Submit Online Application: Please create your online account and submit your application by following the general application instructions and pay (or waive) the non-refundable $60 application fee. Once this step has been completed, the online portal will allow you to upload your supplemental materials.
The following is a list of the supplemental materials that will accompany your application for the Theatre of Diversity, Inclusion, and Social Change (Certificate) program:
- Transcript: One from each college attended.
- Standardized Test Scores: Not required.
- Resume: A current resume is required.
- Letters of Recommendation: Letters of Recommendation: One letter of recommendation, from persons qualified to evaluate the applicant’s promise of academic achievement and potential for professional growth.
- Statement of Purpose – Please write an integrated essay providing a response to each of the following questions:
- How has your professional and/or educational background led to an interest in theatre for diversity, inclusion and social change?
- What are your goals in earning this certificate?
- Applicants with non-U.S. degrees, please visit the International Applicants page to review the US degree equivalency information.
View the curriculum information for the Theatre of Diversity, Inclusion, and Social Change (Certificate) in the University Catalog.
If you have any general questions regarding the application process and requirements, please email or call us:
Office of Graduate Admissions
Email: graduate@montclair.edu
Telephone: 973-655-5147
Fax: 973-655-7869
If you have specific inquiries regarding your program of interest, please contact the Theatre of Diversity, Inclusion, and Social Change (Certificate) Program Coordinator:
*During the summer months, there will be a rotating department chair available to answer your inquiry. Find the updated summer chair for this program.*
Program Coordinator: Jessica Brater
Office: Life Hall
Email: braterj@montclair.edu
