The major criteria for admission to the program are talent, originality, and an ability to work well in collaboration. A bachelor's degree, or the equivalent thereof, is required of all applicants. Basic skills must be in place. Composers and writers to apply who have practical experience in their discipline(s) and/or a more traditional background are encouraged to apply. Acceptance into the program is competitive and limited.
Application Requirements
1. The Graduate Musical Theatre Writing Program (GMTW) Creative Portfolio/Essay Application (downloaded as a PDF or Word document at www.gmtw.tisch.nyu.edu/object/gmtw_dlform.html).
2. A detailed résumé.
Submit TWO COPIES of the above to:
Graduate Musical Theatre Writing Program
Tisch School of the Arts, New York University
113-A Second Avenue, 1st Floor
New York, NY 10003-8388
3. Tisch School of the Arts Graduate Application for Admission. This must be complete online at https://app.applyyourself.com/?id=nyu-arts.
Here you will also be asked to upload the following:
- Two letters of recommendation.
- A detailed résumé (you may submit the same résumé you include with the Creative Portfolio/Essay Application).
- Graduate Admissions Application Fee (payable only via e-check).
4. Certified copies of all undergraduate transcripts. These should be mailed directly to:
Office of Graduate Admissions
Tisch School of the Arts
New York University
721 Broadway, 8th Floor
New York, NY 10003-6807
Applications are due by Feb 1st for consideration in the following Fall class.
If you are unable to download either application, you may request a copy of the GMTWP Department Application and Writing Assignment from our office by calling or writing us.
Program Requirements
All students must complete the prescribed course of study totaling 64 points, which leads to a Master of Fine Arts degree.
Continuous creative work and completion of all writing assignments are required for the writing labs in each phase of the program, culminating in the thesis project, a full-length musical theatre work. Prompt attendance at all seminars is also required. There are listening assignments and suggested readings, but no term papers are assigned.
Financial Aid
Limited, partial financial aid is available. When possible, the program employs several students as administrative assistants, and several partial outright fellowships may be awarded.
All students may be considered for financial aid awards, but must file the required applications. Visit the Applying for Financial Aid page for more information.
