Question 1

What is the total tuition fee for the programs?

Accepted Answer

The investment varies by program and qualification level. Contact us at info@nipai.org (mailto:info@nipai.org)to receive a consultation with our program manager about tuition costs and which program would be the best fit for you

Question 2

Are scholarships or financial aid options available?

Accepted Answer

Yes. NIPAI offers partial scholarships designed to make the professional qualification more accessible (addressing the financial barrier). Students applying for the Certificate may receive scholarships up to €2,000. Those applying for the Diploma program, which is positioned as a long-term professional investment, may receive significant financial support up to €6,000.

Question 3

What is the application deadline for the funding/scholarships?

Accepted Answer

Specific deadlines are announced regularly. To find out details and deadlines, and whether you are eligible for a partial scholarship at NIPAI, contact our program manager at info@nipai.org.(mailto:info@nipai.org)

Question 4

What is the main difference between the 12-Month Certificate and the 18-Month Diploma?

Accepted Answer

The programs target different audiences: The Certificate is for beginners, focusing on building essential skills and confidence within a "safe space". The Final Project is a detailed Explanation Book. The Diploma is for advanced professionals, resulting in a Professional Qualification. The final examination is Staging a Performance.

Question 5

Do I get a professional qualification after completing the diploma program?

Accepted Answer

Yes, after completing the 18-Month Diploma program, you will receive a diploma confirming your professional qualification as a Theatre Director. This qualification is validated through intense practice-oriented learning and culminates in the final examination: Staging a Performance. We also offer partial scholarships up to €6,000 to make this qualification more financially feasible. The program equips you with the credentials and portfolio needed to launch your career.

Question 6

What is the delivery format for the programs?

Accepted Answer

Both certificate and diploma programs utilize a flexible distance and blended learning concept, as NIPAI students are located around the world in different time zones. This helps balance studies, professional commitments, and personal life.

Distance learning includes a modern remote education platform and an extensive knowledge library for NIPAI students. The distance format involves practical work with real scripts that students choose to work on. Instructors guide each student individually through the learning process with their selected play.

Blended learning includes everything in the distance format plus in-class practical sessions focused on hands-on training and collaborative work.

Question 7

What is the key outcome of the 18-Month Theatre Directing Diploma?

Accepted Answer

The intensive program, designed for advanced professionals, serves as a gateway to the professional stage. Key outcomes include:
- A diploma that confirms professional status in the industry.
- Development of a portfolio, practical experience, and acquisition of technical skills relevant to the industry.
- The culminating final examination is the Staging a Performance.
- Networking: Connection with NIPAI's international network of professionals and artists.

The program utilizes a practice-oriented, "learning by doing" philosophy where skills are applied through real-world projects.

Question 8

What is the key outcome of the 12-Month Theatre Directing Certificate?

Accepted Answer

The Certificate focuses on providing you with essential directing skills and confidence for real-life application through "learning by doing". Your final project is a detailed 'Explanation Book', which is a key tool for communicating your vision to performers. You will graduate with the skills necessary to take on technical and creative roles.

Question 9

What are the expected career outcomes after completing the Diploma Programs?

Accepted Answer

We emphasize practical learning for real-life application. Graduates develop the skills and portfolio needed to work professionally in theatre directing.

Our student success stories demonstrate the program's impact:
Cody Ganger transitioned from community theatre to becoming a College Theatre Professor. Following the distance diploma program, Cody directed increasingly ambitious projects including Mary Zimmerman's 'Metamorphoses' (requiring a pool onstage) and a bold reinterpretation of Hamlet featuring extensive live-feed video.

Mike Savuica, a diploma graduate, has completed 50+ projects including 9 international productions by age 28. His work has been presented in Mexico, Korea, Belgium, Spain, Romania, U.K., Germany, Austria, Poland, Egypt, Philippines, Armenia, and India. He is currently an assistant professor at the Hyperion University of Bucharest and founded Monolog Slam Romania and Unfortunate Thespians. His graduation project won multiple festival awards including Best Show at Hyperfest 2022.

You can explore more student reviews and testimonials on our website.(https://www.nipai.org/reviews)

Question 10

What are the expected career outcomes after completing the Theatre Directing Certificate Program?

Accepted Answer

We emphasize practical learning for real-life application. The certificate program provides foundational directing skills for those beginning their professional journey or looking to enhance existing experience.

Certificate graduates gain practical tools for directing productions, developing their artistic voice, and understanding theatrical processes. The program serves as preparation for professional directing work or further study in the diploma program.

Our student success stories d(https://www.nipai.org/reviews)emonstrate how NIPAI training translates into real-world directing opportunities across various theatrical contexts.

Question 11

How is the practical, hands-on component of "learning by doing" achieved in a Distance & Blended learning format?

Accepted Answer

The NIPAI methodology is centered on providing you with concrete practical skills for real-life application. Our Distance & Blended learning model focuses on immersive, practical assignments that intentionally simulate the backstage reality of professional theatre. Instead of relying solely on theoretical lectures, we require you to engage actively in "learning by doing" projects. This approach is designed to: 
1. Maximize Skill Acquisition. 
2. Build Confidence. 
3. Provide Personalized Guidance.

Question 12

When can I start my studies at NIPAI?

Accepted Answer

The New International Performing Arts Institute offers flexible enrollment periods depending on the program duration:

1. Long-Term Programs (18-Month Diploma and 12-Month Certificate)
These programs are offered with two main intakes per year:
• October (for the Autumn semester).
• April (for the Spring semester).

2. Short Courses (3-Month Programs)
Enrollment for the 3-month courses, such as "The Director and Play", "Ensemble Building Program" or "Choreography & Blocking in Performance", opens every month.

3. Specialized Programs
Specialized programs, such as the 3-month "Digital Presence for Performing Artists", typically offer four intakes per year (Winter, Spring, Autumn, and Summer)

Contact us at info@nipai.org (mailto:info@nipai.org)to receive a consultation with our program manager.

Question 13

What are the entry requirements for NIPAI programs?

Accepted Answer

Entry requirements vary depending on the program level and format. Each program has specific prerequisites designed to ensure students are prepared for the coursework and can benefit fully from the training.

To view the detailed entry requirements for different programs, visit here.(https://www.nipai.org/admissions-process)

For personalized guidance on which program best suits your background and goals, contact us at info@nipai.org.

Question 14

If I have already completed a 3-month course with NIPAI and decide I want to continue my studies, can I transfer to a diploma or certificate program?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Students who successfully complete the 3-month distance course can transfer to the diploma or certificate program and are eligible to receive a tuition credit toward the longer program.

This pathway allows you to build on your existing knowledge and continue developing your skills without starting from the beginning. For specific details about the transfer process and tuition credit amount, contact us at info@nipai.org.

Question 15

What are the payment options for tuition fees?

Accepted Answer

For individual applicants, the following payment options are available:
 • Option 1: Tuition fee paid in one installment
 • Option 2: Tuition fee paid in two installments
 • Option 3: Tuition fee paid in three installments

Once admitted to NIPAI, students must pay a deposit to secure their place in the program. The deposit amount varies depending on the program. Contact our program manager at info@nipai.org (mailto:info@nipai.org)for a consultation regarding payment details and options.

Question 16

Are there any additional costs beyond tuition?

Accepted Answer

We strive to ensure that the majority of required course materials are available through our digital library, which you can access with your student account. However, depending on your chosen modules and research interests, you may need to purchase some books independently.

For blended learning programs, costs for travel, accommodation, meals, and other personal expenses during in-class sessions are not included in the tuition fee.

Question 17

What language are the programs conducted in?

Accepted Answer

All programs are conducted in English. Upon request, programs may be available in other languages. For more information about language options, contact our program manager at info@nipai.org.(mailto:info@nipai.org)

Question 18

Can I speak with alumni about their experience?

Accepted Answer

We have many alumni who are happy to share their experiences at NIPAI. You can explore student success stories and testimonials on our reviews page,(https://www.nipai.org/reviews) where graduates discuss how the program developed their practical skills and advanced their careers.

If you would like to connect directly with an alumnus, contact our admissions office at info@nipai.org,(mailto:info@nipai.org) and we will facilitate an introduction.

FAQs: Your Investment, Professional Qualification, and Career Outcomes

Diploma & Certificate Programs

Subscribe to get first access to workshops, exclusive content, and valuable tips for your performing arts career: