Theatre - Design Theatre/Technology (M.F.A.)

The M.F.A. Design Theatre/Technology specialization is a theoretical and practical course of study. The Department of Theatre recognizes that the designer and technician must seek to attain a broad knowledge of the theatre and its companion arts, a high level of analytical and communicative skills, an understanding of the design elements as they apply to live, three-dimen­sional performances revealed by light, a comprehensive understanding of art and theatrical design history, and the ability to communicate graphically. With major professor and graduate committee approval, candidates must select an area of emphasis and complete additional requirements for the emphasis area: Costume Design, Light and Sound Design, Scenic Design, or Technical Direction. Because specialization admissions are limited, each student receives a high level of individual­ized instruction, opportunities to design in the Arena season of plays, and, in most instances, the opportunity to design a mainstage production as part of the design candidate’s culminating project.

In addition to meeting the general requirements of the Graduate School, candidates for degrees must complete all specific program requirements as listed in the departmental Graduate Student Handbook and as indicated by the Graduate Advisory Committee. All candidates must pass a final written and/or oral examination as determined by the Graduate Advisory Committee.  With major professor and graduate committee approval, candidates must elect an area of emphasis and must complete additional requirements for the emphasis area.

At least 50% percent of the graduate program of study credit hours must be in courses numbered 700 or above. The program requires 60 credit hours of study to include: