The department of Theatre and Dance offers the Master of Arts in Theatre and Dance (M.A.) for the student preparing for teaching, practice, or further graduate study. In general, the focus of the program is the creation of new works of theatre and dance for stage and classroom, and development of research skills. The M.A. in Theatre and Dance with a concentration in Dance History and Criticism is a two-year degree that allows students to explore the range of dance studies. From historic reconstruction to contemporary performance theory, students are involved in intensive discussion and rigorous training in the practice of research and writing about dance. The program serves as a preparation for doctoral studies. Students in the Dance History and Criticism concentration have continued to Ph.D. programs at UC Riverside, University of Arizona, University of Surrey and other national and international institutions. Students in the concentration undertake their studies in a vibrant dance program that also emphasizes performance and choreography in contemporary dance and flamenco. All of these factors make for a unique graduate experience.