Mar 28, 2024  
2009-2010 Graduate Catalog 
    
2009-2010 Graduate Catalog [Archived Catalog]

Theatre - Directing (M.F.A.)


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Master of Fine Arts, Directing Program

Students of stage directing at USD are training to be interpretive artists and educators. They are expected to develop a high level of skill in text analysis, interpersonal communication, and the director’s tools for effective storytelling, while also attaining a broad knowledge of theatre and its companion arts. Although there is focused instruction in acting, directing and design, students are encouraged to develop an understanding of how the present and the past intersect so that they may help others discover the common threads which link human experience. Because specialization admissions are limited, each student receives a high level of individualized instruction, opportunities to direct in the Arena season of plays, and, in most instances, the opportunity to direct a mainstage production as part of the directing candidate’s culminating project.

In addition to meeting the general requirements of The Graduate School, candidates for degree 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.

All M.F.A. directing candidates must stage-manage two approved productions and direct three approved productions. At least 50% of the graduate program of study credit hours must be in courses numbered 700 or above. The M.F.A. Directing program requires 60 credit hours of study, to include:

Master of Fine Arts, Theatre-Directing, Plan A or B: Total 60 credit hours


  • Theatre core 38-44 credit hours
  • Culminating Experience (thesis or project) 6 credit hours
  • Theatre/other electives 16-10 credit hours

Theatre M.F.A. Directing Specialization core course work: 25 to 31 credit hours


Two semesters of Voice and/or Movement Dynamics


Culminating Experience: six credit hours


Choose one of the following:

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