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School of Theatre and Dance

Acting, MFA

Are you a passionate actor looking to elevate your craft and career? Consider our MFA in Acting — a rigorous, three-year program with comprehensive studio instruction and diverse performance opportunities.

We accept a select class of 6-8 actors every three years, ensuring personalized attention and a close-knit, collaborative ensemble.

Our conservatory-style training emphasizes risk-taking and experimentation, helping you develop as a professional artist under the mentorship of experienced core faculty and guest artists. As part of our graduate acting ensemble, you'll be at the heart of 5-6 main stage productions and numerous workshop projects, while also serving as a leader and mentor to undergraduates.

Assistantships are available, offering a tuition waiver, stipend and health insurance. Opportunities are available in teaching, publicity and branding efforts for the School of Theatre and Dance, or collaborating with , our affiliate professional theatre.

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Your Degree Plan

Intro

Aerial view of Martin and Woodburn Halls

Be part of an intensive three-year course of study that will prepare you for the industry through studio instruction and performance opportunities.

MFA Acting students are committed to a five-day-a-week, conservatory-style schedule, attending classes in acting, voice, movement and scene study. Scene study is the weekly practice of presenting material supported by studio course work and is a key proponent to the program.

You will develop not only an effective, collaborative and healthy rehearsal process, but also the skill set of facilitating effective critique.

In addition to the studio program, you are required to complete coursework in:

  • Theatre history
  • Text analysis
  • Criticism
  • Research methods

An overall grade point average of 3.0 is needed to remain in the program.

Fulfillment of the degree culminates in the performance, written documentation and oral defense of a thesis project.

School of Theatre and Dance MFA programs are accredited by the National Association of the Schools of Theatre (NAST) and are terminal degrees.

Take advantage of special options related to this major:

  • Honors

    Expand your curiosity — and enhance your curriculum — through the ½ûÂþÌìÌà Honors College. Two programs