The Professional Director Training Program is designed to train and prepare directors for a career in the professional theater. It embodies the faculty’s belief that a classical foundation better prepares a director to work in any style or medium. The program admits no more than two candidates each year. Admission is granted as a result of admission to the University and a combination of recommendations by those familiar with the applicant’s work and an interview with the program head.

During the three-year course of study, directors will develop and practice their craft in a variety of ways, ranging from scene work to directing fully supported mainstage productions. The primary focus of the first year is for the director to become familiar working with the elements and people involved in producing theater. Given satisfactory progress, the second year has a focus on the application of work done during the first year through a variety of laboratory and other directing experiences. Given continued satisfactory progress, the third year is the culmination of the previous two and serves as an entry into the theater. This may be accomplished by directing a fully supported thesis production.

Requirements for a M.F.A. in directing are 135 hours. Detailed requirements will be given to the student upon enrollment. There is a quarterly evaluation of each student. Students exhibiting consistent growth and preparation for a career in the professional theater will be invited to return for the next year of training.