Graduate Drama Therapy Instructor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the evolving world of performance and therapy, the role of a Graduate Drama Therapy Instructor has never been more crucial.

As society becomes more aware of the therapeutic power of performing arts, the demand for skilled educators who can guide, nurture, and protect our therapeutic arts learning sphere grows.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Graduate Drama Therapy Instructor?

Whether you are:

• An aspiring teacher aiming to understand the core of this role,
• A recruitment officer defining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intersection of drama and therapy,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a tailor-made Graduate Drama Therapy Instructor job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Graduate Drama Therapy Instructor Duties and Responsibilities

Graduate Drama Therapy Instructors utilize their knowledge and expertise in drama therapy to educate and train students pursuing a career in this field.

These instructors not only teach theoretical knowledge but also provide practical learning experiences.

Their main duties and responsibilities include:

• Preparing course syllabus and lesson plans in line with the curriculum requirements for drama therapy
• Delivering lectures on different aspects of drama therapy, including theoretical principles, techniques, and applications
• Designing and facilitating practical exercises to enhance students’ understanding of therapeutic drama techniques
• Evaluating students’ assignments and providing constructive feedback to improve their skills
• Assisting students in developing their creative skills for therapeutic purposes
• Maintaining up-to-date knowledge of the field to incorporate new research findings into the course curriculum
• Providing guidance to students for their research projects in the field of drama therapy
• Collaborating with fellow faculty members to enhance the overall quality of the drama therapy program
• Organizing workshops or seminars to expose students to real-life case scenarios and current trends in drama therapy
• Adhering to the academic policies and regulations of the institution

 

Graduate Drama Therapy Instructor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a dynamic and passionate Graduate Drama Therapy Instructor to join our team.

This role entails teaching and guiding graduate students in the theory and application of drama therapy, including techniques and approaches, ethical considerations, and practical applications.

A successful candidate will have a deep understanding of drama therapy and experience in clinical practice.

They must be enthusiastic about guiding the next generation of drama therapists, and be committed to creating a positive and inclusive learning environment.

 

Responsibilities

• Teach graduate-level courses in drama therapy
• Guide students in the application of drama therapy techniques in clinical settings
• Assess and provide feedback on student performance
• Develop course materials and curriculum in line with educational standards
• Stay up-to-date with latest trends and developments in drama therapy
• Conduct research and publish findings in reputable journals
• Maintain professional standards of work
• Participate in departmental meetings and professional development activities

 

Qualifications

• Master’s or Doctoral degree in Drama Therapy or related field
• Proven experience as a Drama Therapy Instructor or similar role
• Strong knowledge of drama therapy techniques and applications
• Experience in clinical practice
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Commitment to diversity and inclusivity in the classroom
• Membership in the North American Drama Therapy Association (NADTA) or similar professional body is desirable

 

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package
• Health, Dental, and Vision insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities
• Tuition remission for employee and family

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Graduate Drama Therapy Instructor
• Work Environment: Campus setting. Some remote teaching may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Department Chair.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: [Specify pay range]
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience, and three references to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Graduate Drama Therapy Instructor Do?

Graduate Drama Therapy Instructors are specialized educators who teach courses related to drama therapy at the graduate level.

They typically work in universities, colleges, or other higher education institutions.

They deliver lectures, facilitate workshops, and organize interactive activities to impart knowledge about the principles and practices of drama therapy.

They cover topics such as the therapeutic use of drama and theatre, role-playing, improvisation, and story-telling.

Graduate Drama Therapy Instructors also guide students in understanding the application of drama therapy in various settings such as schools, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and mental health facilities.

In addition to classroom teaching, they also supervise students’ clinical practice, providing them with real-world experience and personalized feedback.

They may also be involved in research activities, contributing to the academic literature in the field of drama therapy.

Graduate Drama Therapy Instructors are also responsible for grading assessments and dissertations, providing academic advice, and supporting students’ overall academic progress.

They keep up-to-date with the latest developments in drama therapy and adapt their teaching methods accordingly to ensure that their students are well-prepared for their future roles as drama therapists.

 

Graduate Drama Therapy Instructor Qualifications and Skills

A Graduate Drama Therapy Instructor should possess a blend of therapeutic knowledge, drama expertise and teaching skills to effectively educate students on the use of drama as a therapeutic tool.

These may include:

• An in-depth understanding of drama therapy theories and techniques, as well as the ability to demonstrate their practical application.
• Strong communication and presentation skills to effectively convey complex concepts and facilitate discussions in class.
• Interpersonal and empathy skills to understand and respect the diverse backgrounds and experiences of students, and to foster a supportive, inclusive learning environment.
• Problem-solving skills to address any issues or conflicts that may arise within the classroom.
• Patience and the ability to provide constructive feedback to help students improve and grow in their understanding and application of drama therapy.
• Organizational skills to prepare lesson plans, coordinate with other faculty members, manage class schedules and meet educational goals within the set timeline.
• Professional experience in drama therapy to provide real-world examples and insights to students.
• A Master’s degree in Drama Therapy or a related field is typically required, along with relevant certifications.

 

Graduate Drama Therapy Instructor Experience Requirements

Graduate Drama Therapy Instructors usually hold a Master’s degree or higher in Drama Therapy, Counseling, or a related field.

While they are in their graduate programs, they gain substantial experience working with clients in therapeutic settings, which prepares them for their role as instructors.

Internships or part-time roles in a therapeutic setting like a mental health clinic, hospital, or school are common places where graduate drama therapy instructors gain practical experience.

They may also gain experience through conducting workshops and individual sessions in community organizations, rehab centers, or correctional facilities.

Candidates with 2 to 3 years of experience are often equipped with a solid foundation of theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

They have also likely developed competencies in different drama therapy techniques and are ready to instruct others.

Those with more than 5 years of experience often have a deeper understanding of the therapeutic process and a broader repertoire of techniques.

They have had experience working with diverse populations and a variety of mental health conditions.

This experience equips them to handle more complex teaching roles, where they might be expected to supervise students in clinical placements or lead research projects.

Instructors with more than 10 years of experience in the field are often considered experts.

They may have written books or articles on the subject, presented at conferences, or have held leadership positions in professional organizations.

These individuals are often sought out for high-level teaching positions or to develop new drama therapy programs.

 

Graduate Drama Therapy Instructor Education and Training Requirements

Graduate Drama Therapy Instructors typically possess a master’s degree in drama therapy, counseling, psychology, or a related field.

The degree program should be accredited by the North American Drama Therapy Association (NADTA), or equivalent accrediting body in other countries.

In addition to their academic training, they are expected to have hands-on experience in the field.

This can be achieved through internships, clinical practice, or working under the supervision of a Registered Drama Therapist (RDT).

Graduate Drama Therapy Instructors must have strong knowledge of both drama and therapy, being able to integrate the two disciplines in their teaching and practice.

They should be familiar with various therapeutic techniques, as well as different forms of drama and theater.

Most roles require Graduate Drama Therapy Instructors to be licensed or certified.

This certification is typically granted by the NADTA, and requires the candidate to have completed a specific amount of supervised practice, as well as passing an exam.

In order to stay up-to-date with the latest research and developments in the field, many Graduate Drama Therapy Instructors also engage in continuous professional development, attending workshops, seminars, and conferences.

Additionally, some positions may require the instructor to have a PhD, especially if the role involves conducting research or teaching at university level.

 

Graduate Drama Therapy Instructor Salary Expectations

A Graduate Drama Therapy Instructor can expect to earn an average salary of $47,000 (USD) per year.

However, this salary may fluctuate depending on the level of experience, location, and the employing institution.

Entry-level positions may offer a lower salary, while experienced instructors in high-demand areas can command a higher wage.

 

Graduate Drama Therapy Instructor Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Graduate Drama Therapy Instructor need?

Graduate Drama Therapy Instructors need excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively interact with students.

They require a deep knowledge of drama therapy principles, methods, and techniques.

They should possess the ability to plan and facilitate drama therapy sessions, as well as evaluate students’ performance.

Being a good listener and having a high level of empathy are also important, as students may reveal personal issues during therapy sessions.

 

Do Graduate Drama Therapy Instructors need a degree?

Yes, Graduate Drama Therapy Instructors generally need a master’s degree in drama therapy or a related field.

They may also require additional training and certification depending on the requirements of the institution they will be teaching at.

Some may choose to pursue a doctoral degree to advance further in their careers.

 

What should you look for in a Graduate Drama Therapy Instructor’s resume?

A Graduate Drama Therapy Instructor’s resume should show evidence of a degree in drama therapy or a related field.

In addition, they should have experience teaching at the graduate level and direct experience in drama therapy practice.

Look for certifications and licenses related to drama therapy.

Additional qualities to look for include research experience, publications, and involvement in professional drama therapy organizations.

 

What qualities make a good Graduate Drama Therapy Instructor?

A good Graduate Drama Therapy Instructor is passionate about drama therapy and committed to the success of their students.

They must be able to develop and deliver engaging, informative lessons that teach the principles and practice of drama therapy.

They should be empathetic, patient, and adaptable, able to respond to the diverse needs of their students.

Good instructors also stay current on the latest research and developments in the field of drama therapy.

 

What is the employment outlook for Graduate Drama Therapy Instructors?

The employment outlook for Graduate Drama Therapy Instructors is closely tied to the overall demand for drama therapists and the popularity of drama therapy as a course of study.

As awareness and acceptance of drama therapy grows, it is likely that demand for qualified instructors in this field will also increase.

However, competition for academic positions can be fierce, so having a strong educational background and extensive experience in the field can be advantageous.

 

Conclusion

There you have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the captivating world of a graduate drama therapy instructor.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about directing performances.

It’s about shaping therapeutic transformation, one drama activity at a time.

With our comprehensive graduate drama therapy instructor job description template and practical examples, you’re well-prepared to take the plunge.

But why stop at the surface?

Immerse yourself further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to crafting precise job listings or refining your resume to a tee.

Keep in mind:

Each therapy session is a part of the bigger healing process.

Let’s shape that transformation. Together.

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