We are strongly committed to making the degree accessible and affordable. Estimates of annual expenses and payment options are available from the graduate studies office.
The program offers artists fellowships, loans and possible on-campus employment. The artist fellowship is based both on merit and need. The fellowships, which range from full to partial tuition, are awarded each year to incoming students.
Entering students must apply for the artist fellowship at the same time that they apply for admission. This application is available as a downloadable PDF. The financial aid office calculates need-based financial aid and it is awarded in the form of loans.
Student loans are not available to international students.
Tuition for the entire 60-credit degree is $810 per credit hour. Qualified low-residency candidates may receive a 12-credit professional experience waiver for up to $9,720. The typical budget for a student will include technology/media lab and thesis/portfolio fees.
New students must pay a nonrefundable deposit of $500 by March 1. If a new student is accepted after March 1, the $500 deposit will be required within two weeks of his/her acceptance.
The degree is divided over four terms or seven terms. Every track begins in Summer I at the American Dance Festival in Durham, N.C.
Show below is a sample budget for 2012-2013 (using $810 per credit hour).
Low Residency (Two-summer Track)
| Summer I | Fall | Spring | Summer II |
| 12 credits/$9,720 | 16 credits/$12,960 | 16 credits/$12,960 | 16 credits/$12,960 |
Low Residency (Three-summer Track)
| Summer I | Fall I | Spring I |
| 10 credits/$8,100 | 8 credits/$6,480 | 8 credits/$6,480 |
Low Residency (Three-summer Track) - cont.
| Summer II | Fall II | Spring II | Summer III |
| 8 credits/$6,480 | 8 credits/$6,480 | 10 credits/$8,100 | 8 credits/$6,480 |
Year Residency
| Summer I | Fall | Spring | Summer II |
| 12 credits/$9,720 | 14 credits/$11,340 | 16 credits/$12,960 | 18 credits/$14,580 |
For additional information about financial aid for students residing in the U.S. and for international students, click here.