Program Overview: The M.F.A. in Production Technology is a six-semester program that strives to prepare students for professional careers. For technicians, the first year of the program deals primarily with unleashing the imagination and examining the process of how to translate the visual images into practical physical reality. The second and third years allow for refined skill development and increasing specialization in an area of concentration with an emphasis on professional portfolio development. Technology students are involved in production, craft, and skill classes each semester of residence. The development of fine craft and technical skills is essential, but the focus is on the development of top-notch managerial skills. 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 supervisory staff positions on the main stage, such as shop manager, technical director or cutter/draper. The thesis for all students consists of a main stage 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. 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 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 technical MFA include 39 credits of core courses (including intradisciplinary, academic, and applied studies), at least 36 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.

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

Total 90 semester credit hours required with 69 credit hours required in Major Area Studies, 9 credit hours in Supportive Theater and Performance Studies, 12 credits of electives.