Master of Fine Art in Theater

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 2 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

Embark on your journey to become a leading theatre practitioner with the Master of Fine Art (MFA) in Theater at Southern Illinois University. This postgraduate degree is meticulously crafted for aspiring directors, playwrights, and designers eager to hone their practical expertise in areas like directing, playwriting, costume design, lighting design, scene design, and technical direction. You will explore the dynamic interplay between performance studies, dramatic literature, and dramaturgy, fostering an interdisciplinary approach to theatre creation. This program is ideal for those seeking to deepen their understanding and application of theatrical arts within a rigorous academic environment.

Your three-year, full-time, on-campus MFA experience at Southern Illinois University will involve intensive coursework, practical projects, and a significant thesis component. You will engage with core theatre research methods and contemporary developments, alongside specialized training in your chosen area. Throughout your studies, you will benefit from faculty guidance and potentially participate in productions, culminating in a substantial thesis project that demonstrates your mastery. Upon graduation, you will be prepared to pursue professional careers in various facets of the theatre industry, equipped with advanced practical skills and a comprehensive understanding of theatrical practice.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

The Master of Fine Art in Theater program offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to foster advanced artistic development. Students will engage in core theater research methods, explore contemporary theatrical developments, and complete a significant thesis project. The program also provides specialized tracks in directing, costume design, lighting design, scene design, technical direction, and playwriting, allowing for in-depth study and practice in chosen areas of theatrical art.

1 M.F.A. in Theater Core

Theater Research Methods Compulsory
Contemporary Developments Compulsory
Thesis Compulsory

2 Directing

Stage Management
Stage Management Lab
Directing Studio
Advanced Acting
Advanced Directing Studio
Performing Justice/Theory
Performing Resistance
Playwriting I
Period Style Theater I
Period Style Theater II

3 Costume Design

Costume Design
Production Design Seminar
Patterning & Draping for the Theater
Drafting for the Theater

4 Lighting Design

Lighting Design
Production Design Seminar

5 Scene Design

Scene Design
Production Design Seminar

6 Technical Direction

Technical Direction
Production Design Seminar

7 Playwriting

New Play Development
Performing Justice/Theory
Performing Resistance
Playwriting I
Playwriting II

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 28,170.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 28,170.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 56,340.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,950.00 - USD 2,250.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,000.00 - USD 4,560.00
Transport USD 600.00 - USD 1,200.00
Utilities & Bills USD 960.00 - USD 1,800.00
Estimated Total USD 4,560.00 - USD 7,560.00

Living cost estimates are based on Carbondale campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

53%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accreditation & Assessment ServicesEvent Promotion & ManagementFilm & Television ProductionHigher Education & UniversitiesMusic & Performing ArtsSecondary & High School EducationSustainable & Ethical FashionTextile & Fabric DevelopmentTheme Parks & LeisureVocational & Technical Training

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Art Institute of Chicago

Chicago Public Schools

Why Study Master of Fine Art in Theater at Southern Illinois University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

Southern Illinois University typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at Southern Illinois University in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Master of Fine Art in Theater at Southern Illinois University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. On-campus work does not require a separate work permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

English proficiency tests include Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE with specific score requirements for each section. Ensure you meet the minimum scores for your chosen test before applying.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as directors, playwrights, costume designers, lighting designers, and technical directors.

What will I actually study in this course?

Embark on your journey to become a leading theatre practitioner with the Master of Fine Art (MFA) in Theater at Southern Illinois University. This postgraduate degree is meticulously crafted for aspiring directors, playwrights, and designers eager to hone their practical expertise in areas like directing, playwriting, costume design, lighting design, scene design, and technical direction. You will explore the dynamic interplay between performance studies, dramatic literature, and

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Master of Fine Art in Theater program has two intake months: January and August. Make sure to apply before the deadlines for your chosen intake.
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