Program Overview: The M.F.A. in Production Design and Technology is a four-semester program that strives to prepare students for professional or academic careers. The 60-credit MFA in Production Design and Technology is intended for students entering with significant professional experience, or extending an MA in Theater into a specialized MFA degree. Studies include core interdisciplinary courses, studio courses in design or technology, and thesis studies that focus on a thesis production and exit portfolio development. Participation in a specified production activity each semester is required. These assignments relate directly to the students area of concentration. At designated times they will consist of assuming senior staff positions on the main stage, such as designer, technical director or cutter/draper. The thesis for all students consists of a main stage design or equivalent supervisory technical assignment, and a formal exit portfolio review. In all cases, portfolios are expected to meet prevailing professional standards for job placement in the field. Where appropriate for the individual student’s development, an 8-10 week internship at a major LORT or commercial theater in the United States or abroad (usually London) may be included during the academic year or during an academic break. Students are expected to attend at least one national convention every year. Students are strongly encouraged to spend their summers and winter breaks working in leading professional theaters.

Total credit-hour requirements are based on a normal load of 15-18 credit hours per academic semester for four semesters. Minimum course requirements for the four-semester MFA include 24 credits of core courses (including interdisciplinary, theater and performance studies, and applied studies), at least 24 credits of specific area requirements (including studio courses and directed electives), and 12 credits of thesis studies for a total of 60 credits.

Admissions Policy: The 60 credit MFA in Production Design and Technology is intended for students entering with significant professional experience, or extending an MA in Theater into a specialized MFA degree. Due to the selectivity of its nature, students seeking entry into this degree must be placed into it at the time of acceptance by the head of the Production Design and Technology program. Admission to the program requires a Bachelor’s degree and is based on an evaluation of your portfolio, resume, and recommendations, as well as a review of your academic qualifications for graduate work. A visit to inspect the facilities and a personal interview with the faculty and staff is encouraged. The GRE is NOT required for this program. International students must consult the University webpage for international studies for further information on such topics as the TOEFL, speak test, visas, and others.

Change Policy: The 60 credit MFA in Production Design and Technology is intended for students entering with significant professional experience, or extending an MA in Theater into a specialized MFA degree. Due to the selectivity of its nature, students seeking entry into this degree must be placed into it at the time of acceptance by the head of the Production Design and Technology program. Admission to the program requires a Bachelor’s degree and is based on an evaluation of your portfolio, resume, and recommendations, as well as a review of your academic qualifications for graduate work. A visit to inspect the facilities and a personal interview with the faculty and staff is encouraged. International students must consult the University webpage for international studies for further information on such topics as the TOEFL, speak test, visas, and others.

Transfer Policy: The 60 credit MFA in Production Design and Technology is intended for students entering with significant professional experience, or extending an MA in Theater into a specialized MFA degree. Due to the selectivity of its nature, students seeking entry into this degree must be placed into it at the time of acceptance by the head of the Production Design and Technology program. Admission to the program requires a Bachelor’s degree and is based on an evaluation of your portfolio, resume, and recommendations, as well as a review of your academic qualifications for graduate work. A visit to inspect the facilities and a personal interview with the faculty and staff is encouraged. International students must consult the University webpage for international studies for further information on such topics as the TOEFL, speak test, visas, and others.

Opportunities: The MFA is a terminal degree. Students completing their MFA in Production Design and Technology commonly choose to enter the professional market for performing arts companies, specialized production companies or pursue academic careers.

Total 60 semester credit hours required with 48 credit hours required in Major Area Studies, 6 credit hours in Supportive Theater and Performance Studies, 6 credits of electives.