Code of curriculum 201113
Curriculum name in Estonian Kaasaegsed etenduskunstid
Curriculum name in English Contemporary Physical Performance Making (CPPM)
Curriculum level master's studies
Curriculum volume in credits 120 ECTS
Nominal duration of studies in years 2 years
Form(s) of study regular studies
Curriculum Group arts
Language(s) of instruction english
Date of entry in the MER register 07.09.2018
Date of approval (amendment) by the EAMT Senate   16.05.2018, 27.10.2021, 30.10.2024
The right to conduct education
The study programme is included in the study programme group of Music and Theatre Arts and the studies may be conducted according to Government of the Republic Regulation No. 62 of 11.07.2019, appendix 3
Terms and conditions of admission
- access requirement(s)
Bachelor's degree, Diploma of Professional Higher Education or a corresponding qualification. Preferably preparation in the field of Dramatic Art, Dance, Circus or other Performing Arts at the Bachelor or applied higher education level and preferably professional artistic work experience.
- entrance exams
Audition
Curriculum objectives
Training performing artists with a high level of creativity and professionalism and preparing them for work at an international level
Learning outcomes of the curriculum
Upon successful completion of the programme, graduates will be able to:
1) understand and interpret their creative work within broader cultural and artistic contexts, demonstrating a deep awareness of how their practice relates to and influences the wider arts landscape;
2) possess a systematic and comprehensive knowledge of the history, terminology, concepts, theories, and research and creative methods in the field of contemporary performance;
3) demonstrate familiarity with theoretical and creative trends, current issues, and application possibilities in contemporary performance, integrating these insights into their practice;
4) recognise and establish interdisciplinary and cross-sectoral connections, effectively applying them in their artistic practice to innovate and expand the boundaries of performance;
5) solve complex field-specific and cross-disciplinary problems using appropriate methods, even under conditions of limited information, demonstrating critical thinking and adaptability;
6) apply acquired knowledge and skills sustainably and strategically, showcasing creativity, initiative, responsibility, team leadership, and an understanding of future trends in the field and societal processes;
7) safely utilise acquired knowledge and skills through various digital and technical means to enhance their creative work and professional practice;
8) independently initiate and carry out international creative collaborative projects, demonstrating innovation, entrepreneurship, and a high professional level of creativity;
9) analyse, assess, and support personal and team members' opportunities and needs for continuing education and professional development, fostering a culture of lifelong learning;
10) master effective methods necessary for independent learning, demonstrating autonomy in pursuing personal and professional growth;
11) serve as specialists in their field, initiating innovative projects and creating new directions that contribute to the advancement of contemporary performance practices.
Short description of the curriculum
Workshops and Master Classes 45 ECTS
Theoretical and Contextual Studies 25 ECTS
Creative Projects 21 ECTS
Elective Courses 14 ECTS
Master’s Degree Project 15 ECTS
Free Choice Courses
Curriculum options
Elective courses 14 ECTS
Graduation requirements (thesis, exams)
Completion of the curriculum in full amount 120 ECTS
- diploma
Master's diploma, Diploma Supplement
- obtained degree
Master of Arts (MA)
Unit(s) responsible for the curriculum
Lavakunsti osakond
Access to future study
Doctoral Programme
Level of qualification
Second cycle higher education, Estonian Qualifications Framework Level 7, European Qualifications Framework Level 7
Professional status
The right to be employed in a position requiring Master's degree or corresponding qualification
Curriculum specialisations
N/A
Curriculum structure and subjects

MA MAIN STUDY

[MAC01] Workshops and Masterclasses (for major in CPPM)

Objective of the module: This module aims to immerse students in contemporary performance practice by working alongside internationally acclaimed guest artists. Through intensive studio-based training, devising, rehearsing, and performing, students gain practical, real-world experience. The module emphasises the development of artistic skills through collaboration, experimentation, and engagement, fostering commitment, creativity, and professionalism. The module aims for the achievement of the learning outcomes 1, 3, 7, 10 and 11 in the list of overall learning outcomes of the programme.

Upon successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
1) Place their creative work within wider cultural, theoretical, and historical contexts, demonstrating a deep understanding of its cultural significance.
2) Critically assess creative methods and approaches introduced by guest artists, positioning these methodologies within the broader field of contemporary performance.
3) Safely and effectively use various creative, digital, and technical tools to support training, devising, rehearsing, and performing processes.
4) Assess and identify their own strengths and areas for improvement in their artistic practice, recognising the need for continuous professional learning and development.
5) Use independent learning techniques to enhance personal growth and contribute to the collective development of peers through mentoring, teamwork, and collaboration.
6) Demonstrate readiness for professional practice by applying skills and insights gained from immersive studio experiences, advancing their careers as performance artists.
Subject code Subject name ECTS Grading type
CPM001/2024Contemporary Performance Practices I 15 ECTSE
CPM002/2024Contemporary Performance Practices II15 ECTSE
CPM003/2024Contemporary Performance Practices III15 ECTSE

[MAC02] Theoretical and Contextual Studies (for major in CPPM)

Objective of the module: This module aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the historical, conceptual, and theoretical foundations of contemporary performance. Students will critically engage with past and current developments, integrating these insights into their creative work. The module emphasises advanced research skills and equips students with entrepreneurial knowledge essential for independent artists, including sustainability, project management, and strategies for securing funding. The module aims for the achievement of the learning outcomes 2, 3, 5, 6, 7 and 9 in the list of overall learning outcomes of the programme.

Upon successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
1) Demonstrate a deep understanding of the historical, terminological, conceptual, and theoretical foundations of contemporary performance, and critically integrate these elements into their creative work.
2) Perform comprehensive critical analyses of historical and contextual research to inform their artistic projects, positioning their work within broader theoretical and socio-cultural contexts.
3) Evaluate current developments, major trends, and ongoing discussions in contemporary performance, incorporating these insights into individual and collaborative creative projects.
4) Apply advanced entrepreneurial models, theories, and practices, demonstrating an in-depth understanding of sustainability, project management, and strategic approaches to securing funding and opportunities in cultural production.
5) Exhibit a comprehensive understanding of research methods in theatre and performance— including artistic research—and effectively apply these methods to strengthen the connection between theory and creative practice.
6) Develop and refine relevant research questions using effective tools and methods to design, document, and present creative research within a broader artistic and academic context.
Subject code Subject name ECTS Grading type
CPM004/2024Contextual Studies: Tracing the Trails 3 ECTSA
CPM005/2024Mapping the Field: Contemporary Performance 3 ECTSA
CPM008/2024Practice as Research: Design, Documentation, Presentation 3 ECTSA
CPM009/2024Artistic Self-Curatorship and Management5 ECTSA
CPM080/2024Research Paper in Contemporary Performance5 ECTSE
CPM006-1/2024Theatre and Performance Research Methods 3 ECTSA
CPM006-2/2024Theatre and Performance Research Methods 3 ECTSA

MB SUPPLEMENTARY PRACTICAL STUDIES RELATED TO THE SPECIALISATION

[MBC01] Creative projects (for major in CPPM)

Objective of the module: This module aims to introduce students to a variety of approaches to artistic practice and provide practical hands-on experience. It seeks to develop their competencies in using diverse training and creative methods to cultivate unique artistic expressions and offers experience in the design, management, and production of artistic projects within inter- and transdisciplinary contexts. The module aims towards the achievement of learning outcomes 1, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 11 in the list of overall learning outcomes of the programme.

Upon successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
1) Contextualise their creative practice within broader cultural and artistic contexts, articulating a critical awareness of contemporary performance practices.
2) Forge interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary connections, strategically applying them in their creative processes.
3) Apply acquired skills and knowledge sustainably and strategically, demonstrating innovation, creativity, responsibility, and professional preparedness in artistic projects.
4) Utilise digital and technical tools effectively and safely to support the development, production, and presentation of their artistic work.
5) Independently initiate and lead collaborative international projects, demonstrating initiative, leadership, and creativity, and fostering an environment that encourages innovation and entrepreneurial thinking.
6) Position themselves as innovators and leaders in contemporary performance, generating new directions and demonstrating readiness to work in professional fields requiring specialised skills.
Subject code Subject name ECTS Grading type
CPM010/2024Creative Project: Solo Performance 7 ECTSA
CPM011/2024Creative Project: Devising Performance 7 ECTSA
CPM012/2024Creative Project: Beyond Performance7 ECTSA

[MBC02] Elective Courses (for major in CPPM)

Objective of the module: This module aims to provide students with opportunities to explore specialised topics within their chosen elective fields, integrating advanced knowledge and skills into their broader artistic and scholarly practice. It encourages students to formulate and pursue individualised learning paths that align with their personal development needs and professional goals, promoting autonomy and strategic vision. Ultimately, the module deepens understanding of how specialised skills and disciplines intersect with and enhance their core field of study, broadening professional, intellectual, and creative perspectives.

Upon successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
1) Articulate a comprehensive and advanced understanding of specialised topics within their chosen elective fields, integrating this knowledge into their broader artistic and scholarly practice.
2) Critically evaluate disciplinary methodologies and theoretical concepts, applying these to enhance their creative and professional expertise.
3) Apply newly acquired specialised skills and theoretical insights to address complex and multifaceted challenges within their artistic practice, demonstrating adaptability and a profound level of expertise.
4) Formulate and pursue individualised learning pathways that align with their specific developmental needs and professional objectives, showcasing autonomy and strategic vision in their educational trajectory.
5) Synthesise and integrate knowledge from elective courses to advance their artistic research and professional development, contributing to a more nuanced and multifaceted creative practice.
6) Demonstrate a sophisticated understanding of how specialised disciplines intersect with and enhance their core field of study, broadening their professional, intellectual, and creative perspectives.
Subject code Subject name ECTS Grading type
CPM100/2024Estonian Theatre and Performing Arts3 ECTSA
CPM101/2024Creative Writing for Stage and Screen3 ECTSA
CPM102/2024Special Seminar on Theatre Criticism3 ECTSA
CPM103/2024Dramaturgy3 ECTSA
CPM104/2024Advanced Seminar in Theatre and Performance Research3 ECTSA
CPM105/2024New Media and Technology in Performing Arts3 ECTSA
CPM106/2024Scenography: Creating Places and Spaces3 ECTSA
CPM107/2024Sound Design in Contemporary Performance3 ECTSA
CPM108/2024Lighting Design in Contemporary Performance3 ECTSA
CPM109/2024Teaching in Higher Education3 ECTSA
CPM110/2024Sponsorship, Partnership and Fundraising in Creative Industries1 ECTSA
CPM111/2024Transmedia Storytelling and Participatory Audiences3 ECTSA
CPM112/2024From Performance to Action3 ECTSA
CPM113/2024Dance for Camera3 ECTSA
CPM114/2024Artificial Intelligence and Contemporary Performance3 ECTSA
LKX013-5/2024Voice-technique1 ECTSA
LKX013-6/2024Voice-technique1 ECTSA
LKX057/2024Vocal Improvisation 2 ECTSA
LKX209-1/2024Pilates2 ECTSA
LKX209-2/2024Pilates1 ECTSA
ÜAX231/2024Alexander Technique I1 ECTSA
ÜAX232/2024Alexander Technique II1 ECTSA
ÜAX600-1/2024Physical Culture2 ECTSA
ÜAX600-2/2024Physical Culture2 ECTSA
ÜAX600-3/2024Physical Culture2 ECTSA
ÜAX600-4/2024Physical Culture2 ECTSA
ÜAK628/2024Estonian Language Continuation Course3 ECTSA
ÜAK112-1/2024Pro-English3 ECTSA
MTX255/2024Fundamentals of Methods of Research5 ECTSA
ÜAK627/2024Estonian Culture and Language for International Students3 ECTSA

MC COURSES RELATED TO MUSIC THEORY, MUSIC HISTORY, PEDAGOGY AND GENERAL STUDIESMUSIC THEORY, MUSIC HISTORY, PEDAGOGY AND GENERAL STUDIES

MD MASTER'S DEGREE EXAMINATION/MASTER´S THESES

[MDC01] Master's Degree Project (for major in CPPM)

Objective of the module: This module aims to enable students to synthesise and apply the diverse knowledge and skills acquired throughout the programme by conducting an in-depth artistic process that articulates a cohesive and distinctive creative vision. It develops advanced capabilities in self-evaluation, conceptual analysis, and critical discourse, guiding students to manage an artistic project from conceptualisation to public presentation. The module fosters autonomy while encouraging effective engagement with mentors and collaborators, immersing students in multi-modal performance practices such as writing, directing, performing, and digital dissemination. Emphasising their role as artist-researchers, the module culminates in a public performance that communicates their artistic research outcomes through experimentation, reflection, and critical inquiry. The module aims towards the achievement of learning outcomes 1, 4, 5, 6, 9 and 11 in the list of overall learning outcomes of the programme.

Upon successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
1) Conduct an in-depth artistic process synthesising and applying the diverse knowledge and skills acquired throughout the programme, articulating a cohesive and distinctive creative vision.
2) Develop and apply a critical framework for reflecting upon their practice methodologies, demonstrating advanced capabilities in self-evaluation, conceptual analysis, and critical discourse.
3) Manage an artistic project from conceptualisation to public presentation, encompassing research, development, rehearsal, and production phases, demonstrating professional-level project management, leadership, and creative skills.
4) Exhibit the capacity to work autonomously while effectively engaging with mentors, supervisors, and collaborators, demonstrating independence and effectively leveraging support systems.
5) Engage comprehensively with multi-modal performance practices, employing diverse approaches such as writing, directing, performing, and digital dissemination, addressing the complexities inherent in contemporary performance-making.
6) Provide rigorous and critical evidence of their role as artist-researchers, demonstrating a high level of experimentation, reflection, and critical inquiry throughout the creative process, culminating in a public performance communicating their artistic vision and research outcomes.
Subject code Subject name ECTS Grading type
CPM013/2024Master's Degree Project15 ECTST

ME

[ME01] Freely chosen courses

Objective of the module: This module aims to support the objectives of the programme by providing students with the freedom to plan their studies according to their individual developmental needs, academic, intellectual, and professional interests, and future career aspirations. It allows students to gain additional knowledge in specialised disciplines or subjects related to their field of study, fostering a tailored and personalised educational experience.

Upon successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
1) Design and pursue individualised learning pathways that align with their personal development needs, academic interests, and professional objectives, demonstrating autonomy and strategic vision in their educational journey.
2)Acquire and integrate advanced knowledge and skills from specialised disciplines or subjects, enhancing their broader artistic and scholarly practice.
3) Critically evaluate and synthesise concepts and methodologies from their chosen courses, applying interdisciplinary approaches to enrich their core field of study.
4) Demonstrate adaptability and openness by effectively engaging with diverse academic settings and learning environments outside their primary discipline.
5) Apply newly acquired specialised skills and theoretical insights to address complex challenges within their artistic practice, showcasing both adaptability and a high level of expertise.
6) Reflect on personal and professional development, articulating how the knowledge and skills gained contribute to their growth and future career prospects.
Subject code Subject name ECTS Grading type