Program Overview: The M.F.A. in Production Design is a six-semester program that strives to prepare students for professional or academic careers. For designers, the first year of the program deals primarily with unleashing the imagination and examining the process of how to translate the written word into meaningful visual images. The second and third years allow for refined skill development and specialization in an area of concentration with an emphasis on professional portfolio development. Technology studies include coursework in production, craft, and skill refinement. Participation in a specified production activity each semester is required. These assignments relate directly to the students area of concentration. At specified 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 and a formal exit portfolio review. For scenery and costume designers, this simulates the United Scenic Artists Union interview/exam. In all cases, portfolios are expected to meet prevailing professional standards for job placement in the field.   At least 8-10 weeks of the third year is expected to consist of an internship at a major LORT or commercial theater in the United States or abroad (usually London). Students are expected to attend at least one national convention every year. Qualified design students may be invited to participate in the Annual National Portfolio Reviews. 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 credit hours per academic semester for six semesters of residency. Minimum course requirements for the three-year design MFA include 45 credits of core courses (including intradisciplinary, academic, and applied studies), at least 30 credits of specific area requirements (including studio courses and directed electives), and 15 credits of thesis studies for a total of 90 credits. Any course may be waived at entry in recognition of previous academic or professional experience.

Admissions Policy: 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 an interview with the design 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: 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 an interview with the design 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.

Transfer Policy: 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 an interview with the design 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.