Requirements
At least 60 hours, 40 of which must be at the 500 level or above, are required for the Master of Fine Arts with a major in theatre, which is normally to be completed in three consecutive years of full-time residence. THEA 501 is required the first year of residence. Three additional hours at the 500 level are required from history, literature, or dramaturgy. Students in the MFA degree program are evaluated annually by juried performance or portfolio submission. Continuation in the program is with the approval of the faculty committee. THEA 599 (Projects in Lieu of Thesis) and an oral defense of the project must be completed satisfactorily before the degree is conferred.
In addition to the core requirements listed above, each area of concentration has specific requirements.
Acting Concentration
At least 12 hours each of THEA 520 , THEA 523 , and THEA 525 . Course work in this concentration is conducted in a conservatory environment.
Costume Design Concentration
Required courses are at least 12 hours of THEA 580 and at least 6 hours in the projects courses. THEA 503 is required in the first year of residence.
Dramaturgy Concentration
Required courses include: THEA 430 , THEA 510 , (9 hours), THEA 585 (12 hours), 6 hours in theory and literary criticism, plus electives from music, film, art, and business. Dramaturgy students must also satisfy a foreign language requirement (proficiency in one language or reading knowledge of two).
Lighting Design Concentration
Required courses are at least 12 hours of THEA 580 and at least 6 hours in the projects courses. THEA 503 is required in the first year of residence.
Scene Design Concentration
Required courses are at least 12 hours of THEA 580 and at least 6 hours in the projects courses. THEA 503 is required in the first year of residence.
