Available Options

  • Design/Technology Track

    The MFA in design/technology is a professional training program committed to preparing imaginative and inventive artists and technicians for careers in theater and the entertainment industry.

    With the goal to develop a resourceful and flexible student with a broad and diverse portfolio, the department requires that each student develop a primary focus in a selected area of design/technology: scenic design, lighting design, costume design, or technical direction. Elective courses, in entertainment engineering, interior design, architecture, film, 3-D imaging and animation, provide the student designer with increased depth, perspective and experience.

    The student's formal training and instruction is provided through a mentorship with UNLV's distinguished design/technology faculty and nationally and internationally recognized guest artists. Each student participates in a series of production projects specifically selected to strengthen the imagination and technique of the student, emphasizing skills in drafting, research, history, interpretation, concept development and production collaboration. The program also shares unique connections to the entertainment industry and internship opportunities complement the work done within the department.

  • Performance Track

    The MFA Performance Program admits a new class of 10 actors every three years. The program is a comprehensive, inter-disciplinary professional actor training program, designed to prepare the actor for a variety of styles and genres of performance work including: contemporary and modern realism, Shakespeare and other classical material, and acting for the camera.

    In the first year of the program, students receive foundation training in action, subtext, environment, sense memory, emotional preparation, ensemble building, characterization, language, and script analysis.

    Each semester the student trains in a different specialized acting style. Style training classes include Shakespeare, comedy of manners, modern drama, American classics, contemporary realism, and audition technique. Extensive acting for the camera training is offered in the second and third years.

    Integrated voice and movement technique, speech for the stage, dance technique, and strength-based movement work are also required in each semester.

    MFA Performance Candidates enroll in a 3-credit graduate seminar course in spring semester of the first two years, which explores essential elements of theater literature, history, and criticism in a collaborative setting.

    Additionally, actors in the program participate in productions with the Nevada Conservatory Theatre, Las Vegas' premiere regional theater company, working alongside experienced professional actors, directors, designers, and faculty guest artists.

  • Stage Management Track

    Stage managers are the master collaborators and communicators. Their real talents lie in nurturing the creative process, coordinating diverse artistic personalities and maintaining positive energy. Organized, responsible, tactful, adaptable, and graceful under pressure, they are the backbone of any production. Stage managers, considered "jacks of all trades," are understanding and sensitive to the processes of their fellow collaborators.

    The curriculum in stage management reinforces the importance of a broad base of knowledge by requiring studios in directing, technical direction, scenery, costumes, and/or lighting. Other aspects of management are also covered, including production management, company management, and front-of-house administration.

    Emphasis is also placed on management within the larger entertainment industry through a liaison with the UNLV's internationally recognized School of Hotel Administration. Opportunities for stage management exist in all theater venues as well as dance and music.

  • Costume Design Track
  • Lighting Design Track
  • Scenic Design Track
  • Technical Direction Track

Accreditation

For information regarding accreditation at UNLV, please head over to Academic Program Accreditations.

Learning Outcomes

Design/Technology Track
  • Communication Techniques — verbal and visual communication techniques that include public speaking, clear written presentation of ideas and concepts, the use of concentration appropriate visual aids.
  • Production Skills — appropriate for the desired concentration that may include; audition, staging, rehearsal techniques, learning lines, practicing scenes, performance etiquette, design and construction skills used in the lighting, scenery, and costume production studios, collaboration, and time management.
  • Build the experiential portfolio through theoretical classroom study and creation as well as participation in production and performance assignments.
  • Professional preparation — self-marketing as is timely and appropriate in their program that may include auditioning, resume construction, portfolio presentation, and networking.
  • The ability to study and analyze plays; have an understanding of historic context of dramatic structure, genre, style, and direction through the study of plays and theatre history.
  • An understanding of the contextual importance of theatre in the humanities, in the fine arts and part of the human experience.
Performance Track
Advanced Acting Technique
The MFA performance student will learn Stanislavsky based acting technique. The student will be able to analyze, stage, and perform in scenes selected from the modern American theatre movement of the 20th century.
Acting Styles
The MFA performance student will be able to act in, and understand the historical context and relevance of a variety of styles and genres of plays including Shakespeare, Comedy of Manners (Moliere, Restoration Comedy, Wilde, Coward) and Modern Styles (Chekhov, Ibsen, Shaw, Strindberg, etc.), Musical Theatre, and Acting for the Camera.
Advanced Voice, Movement & Speech Technique
The MFA performance student will learn and be able to apply advanced technical skills of voice, movement and speech for the stage that will enhance characterization skills necessary for work on a variety styles and genres of plays.
Musical Theatre Skills
The MFA performance student will learn singing technique for the musical theatre and dance technique in a variety of disciplines including Ballet, Jazz, Modern, and Ballroom dancing.
Professional Preparation
The MFA performance student will learn to audition and market his/her skills at a level appropriate to entering the acting profession.
Principles of Dramatic Structure and Script Analysis
The MFA performance student will be able to analyze a script from any period and style and discern its structure, form, and theme.
Theatre History and Dramatic Literature
The MFA performance student will be able to draw upon knowledge of theatre history when creating a theatrical performance.
Stage Management Track
Common Principles of Professional Stage Management
The student will learn common professional practices in preparing a prompt script, preparing standard paperwork and calling a show.
Directing and Acting
The student will learn about multiple approaches to directing and how to adapt stage management skills to various approaches. The students will also learn how to interface with actors, supporting their efforts in rehearsal and helping them maintain quality and consistency in performance.
Stage Technology and Design
The student's basic knowledge of theatrical design and technology will be expanded so that the student is able to understand and share information with other production participants in their vernacular.
Theatre Management, Production Management and Collaboration
The student will learn about front of house operations including structure and chain of command, by-laws, non-profit status, publicity, play selection, house management and company management. The student will come to understand the "big picture", the responsibilities of overall management of a production and the importance of collaboration and communication.
Union Regulations and Legal Aspects of the Fine Arts
The student will learn about the unions encountered in professional production. In particular, the student will learn how to interpret and implement the rules of Actors' Equity. The student will also learn about contracts, copyright, royalties and legal and social censorship.
Aspects of Management Peculiar to Las Vegas Production
The student will learn about tourism and convention administration as well as backstage operations within a Las Vegas show.

Career Possibilities

Requirements

Master of Fine Arts - Theatre

Plan Description

The Master of Fine Arts is a three-year program offering advanced subplans in Costume, Lighting, Scenic, Technical Direction, Performance, and Stage Management. Actors, designers, stage managers, and technicians receive comprehensive and specialized training in preparation for careers in the professional theatre and the broader entertainment industry. While deeply committed to the individual theatre artist, the program fosters and encourages an integrated and collaborative approach to theatre. Graduate students are provided opportunities through the department's Nevada Conservatory Theatre to work alongside national and international theatre professionals in all disciplines. Courses in related areas of study such as entertainment engineering and design, dance, music, film and/or other disciplines approved by subplan advisors are encouraged for graduate students to meet the ever expanding expectations of the entertainment industry.

For more information about your program, including your graduate program handbook and learning outcomes please visit the Degrees Directory.

Plan Admission Requirements

Application deadlines

Applications available on the UNLV Graduate College website.

All domestic and international applicants must review and follow the Graduate College Admission and Registration Requirements.

(a) Graduate College Admission Requirements

  1. Completed application in the Application Portal and non-refundable application fee. 
  2. Bachelor's Degree – You must hold a four-year baccalaureate from a regionally accredited institution or an approved equivalent.
  3. Grade Point Average – You must have a minimum overall grade point average of 2.75 (4.00=A) for the bachelor's degree or a minimum 3.00 (4.00=A) for the last two years (60 semester credits). 
  4. All applicants are required to submit an unofficial transcript from each postsecondary institution attended, showing all degrees and coursework, the dates awarded, and grades received. Official transcripts required upon admission.
    1. Credentials not in English must be accompanied by an English translation certified as true by a university official, an official representative of a United States embassy or consulate, the United States Information Service, the United States Education Foundation, or an approved professional translating service. Notarized copies of originals or translations are not considered official.

(b) Department Admission Requirements

In addition to the general requirements for admission to the Graduate College, the following department application materials must be uploaded into the online application:

  • Transcripts from all postsecondary institutions attended, showing an undergraduate degree in theatre and the date awarded. (An acceptable alternative undergraduate major coupled with satisfactory practical experience in theatre may be deemed equivalent to an undergraduate major in theatre.)
  • A written statement (500 words or less) of the applicant's purpose in pursuing graduate study.
  • Two letters of recommendation sent by former instructors, employers, or other professionals who can evaluate the applicant's potential to complete graduate study.

Design and Technology subplan: Costume, Lighting, Scenic, and Technical Direction

In addition to general materials requested by the Department of Theatre, students must submit a portfolio for consideration by the respective faculty and staff. It should outline their creative process as well as catalog their creative ideas and experience. Applicants are strongly encouraged to visit the campus for an onsite interview.

Performance subplan:

In addition to general materials requested by the Department of Theatre (see above), students must audition either in person or through submission of a video. The audition should contain the following:

  • Two contrasting selections, one of which must be classical (pre-18th Century) and in verse. The total audition should not exceed four minutes in length.
  • A song selected from a Broadway musical not to exceed one minute in length. If the audition is in person, the song should be performed a cappella as no accompaniment will be provided. Video submissions may include accompaniment.

The M.F.A. in Performance subplan admits a new class every three years.

Stage Management subplan:

In addition to general materials requested by the Department of Theatre (see above), submit electronically several pages from a sample prompt script and other paperwork generated as a stage manager. An interview with Stage Management faculty will be scheduled after application materials have been received.

Upon acceptance, each M.F.A. candidate will be assessed to determine skill level and training in specific subplan competencies as well as theatre history, dramatic literature, and theories of performance and/or production. Candidates may be required to enroll in courses that remedy deficiencies, enhance academic readiness and augment skill acquisition. Students with deficiencies in theatre history will be required to take THTR 681 and THTR 682 (Theatre History I and II) in lieu of 6 elective credits.

Students are accepted into a degree program as described in the Graduate Catalog. The faculty and corresponding sub-disciplines and sub-plans within the described programs are subject to change at any time.

Plan Requirements

See specific subplan requirements below:

Design and Technology subplans:

Subplan 1: Costume Design

Subplan 2: Lighting Design

Subplan 3: Scenic Design

Subplan 4: Technical Direction

Performance subplan:

Subplan 5: Performance

Stage Management subplan:

Subplan 6: Stage Management

Subplan 1 Requirements: Costume Design

Total Credits Required: 60

Required Courses - Total Credits: 45

Scholarly Studies - Credits: 9

Emphasis Specific Studies - Credits: 36

Design Studios - Credits: 18
All of these or other advisor-approved courses.
Advanced Skills - Credits: 9
Complete 9 credits of the following, or other advisor-approved courses.
Drawing/Rendering - Credits: 3
The following or other advisor-approved course.
Focused Studies - Credits: 6
Select from the following or other advisor-approved courses.

Elective Courses - Credits: 12

Complete 12 credits of advisor-approved courses. Each emphasis offers a list of suggested Elective courses related to the emphasis or that enhance liberal arts studies. Recommended areas of study may include Art, Art History, Architecture, Dance, Engineering, English, Film, History, Hospitality, Languages, Literature, Management, Safety, Stage Technology, Structures, Television, Journalism, or other courses with Advisor's approval.

Creative Project - Credits: 3

Complete the following or other advisor-approved course.

Degree Requirements

READING LIST:

A reading list will be given to each student upon acceptance to the program. This reading list will focus on studies in both general theatre and the student's subplan or emphasis. The list may include works in: theatre history, performance theory, period design and production history, dramatic criticism and dramatic literature. It is expected that the student will read all materials on the list and be prepared to answer questions of comprehension as part of the final defense/ examination.


PRODUCTION REQUIREMENT:

Graduate students will participate in productions in all semesters as part of curricular requirements. Students are assigned roles in production by the Faculty with emphasis on advancing and challenging the skills of each candidate and developing their collaborative process. Performance graduates must audition and accept casting in all Nevada Conservatory Theatre productions and participate in film production assignments as cast. Design/Technology and Stage Management students will complete design assignments, managerial positions or stewardships in a variety of venues, styles, and areas. It is expected that students will accumulate a variety of diverse experiences in production/ performance that add to and refine their resume and portfolio, preparing them for the rigors of professional theatre, film, and related fields. All designated assignments are considered extensions of studio and classroom learning progress and skill acquisition.

Graduation Requirements

CREDIT REQUIREMENTS:

Candidate must complete a minimum of 60 credits with a minimum GPA of 3. 00.

FINAL DEFENSE/ EXAMINATION:

M. F. A. candidates will complete a final defense or examination reviewed by the student's Advisor or Advisory Committee, as appropriate. A candidate who successfully completes a final defense/examination will submit all appropriate paperwork to the Graduate College for graduation. A candidate who is unsuccessful in their final defense/examination will be presented conditions by the Advisor or Advisory Committee, as appropriate, to meet satisfactory expectations for completion of the defense process. If the candidate is unable to meet the conditions for completion, the student will be terminated from the program and will not proceed to graduation.

APPLY FOR GRADUATION:

Students may apply for graduation up to two semesters prior to completing their degree requirements. All required forms must be submitted to the graduate college via the Grad Rebel Gateway.

Subplan 2 Requirements: Lighting Design

Total Credits Required: 60

Required Courses - Total Credits: 42

Scholarly Studies - Credits: 9

Emphasis Specific Studies - Credits: 33

Design Studios - Credits: 18
All of these, or other advisor-approved courses.
Drafting/Rendering - Credits: 6
Select two of the following or other advisor-approved courses.
Focused Studies - Credits: 9
Select from the following or other advisor-approved courses.

Elective Courses - Credits: 12

Complete 12 credits of advisor-approved courses. Each emphasis offers a list of suggested Elective courses related to the emphasis or that enhance liberal arts studies. Recommended areas of study may include Art, Art History, Architecture, Dance, Engineering, English, Film, History, Hospitality, Languages, Literature, Management, Safety, Stage Technology, Structures, Television, Journalism, or other courses with Advisor's approval.

Creative Project - Credits: 6

Complete the following, or other advisor-approved course.

Degree Requirements

READING LIST:

A reading list will be given to each student upon acceptance to the program. This reading list will focus on studies in both general theatre and the student's subplan or emphasis. The list may include works in: theatre history, performance theory, period design and production history, dramatic criticism and dramatic literature. It is expected that the student will read all materials on the list and be prepared to answer questions of comprehension as part of the final defense/ examination.


PRODUCTION REQUIREMENT:

Graduate students will participate in productions in all semesters as part of curricular requirements. Students are assigned roles in production by the Faculty with emphasis on advancing and challenging the skills of each candidate and developing their collaborative process. Performance graduates must audition and accept casting in all Nevada Conservatory Theatre productions and participate in film production assignments as cast. Design/Technology and Stage Management students will complete design assignments, managerial positions or stewardships in a variety of venues, styles, and areas. It is expected that students will accumulate a variety of diverse experiences in production/ performance that add to and refine their resume and portfolio, preparing them for the rigors of professional theatre, film, and related fields. All designated assignments are considered extensions of studio and classroom learning progress and skill acquisition.

Graduation Requirements

CREDIT REQUIREMENTS:

Candidate must complete a minimum of 60 credits with a minimum GPA of 3. 00.

FINAL DEFENSE/ EXAMINATION:

M. F. A. candidates will complete a final defense or examination reviewed by the student's Advisor or Advisory Committee, as appropriate. A candidate who successfully completes a final defense/examination will submit all appropriate paperwork to the Graduate College for graduation. A candidate who is unsuccessful in their final defense/examination will be presented conditions by the Advisor or Advisory Committee, as appropriate, to meet satisfactory expectations for completion of the defense process. If the candidate is unable to meet the conditions for completion, the student will be terminated from the program and will not proceed to graduation.

APPLY FOR GRADUATION:

Students may apply for graduation up to two semesters prior to completing their degree requirements. All required forms must be submitted to the graduate college via the Grad Rebel Gateway.

Subplan 3 Requirements: Scenic Design

Total Credits Required: 60

Required Courses - Total Credits: 42

Scholarly Studies - Credits: 9

Emphasis Specific Studies - Credits: 33

Design Studios - Credits: 18
All of these or other advisor-approved courses.
Drawing/Drafting - Credits: 9
The following or other advisor-approved course.
Focused Studies - Credits: 6
Select from the following or other advisor-approved courses.

Elective Courses - Credits: 12

Complete 12 credits of advisor-approved courses. Each emphasis offers a list of suggested Elective courses related to the emphasis or that enhance liberal arts studies. Recommended areas of study may include Art, Art History, Architecture, Dance, Engineering, English, Film, History, Hospitality, Languages, Literature, Management, Safety, Stage Technology, Structures, Television, Journalism, or other courses with Advisor's approval.

Creative Project - Credits: 6

Complete the following or other advisor-approved course.

Degree Requirements

READING LIST:

A reading list will be given to each student upon acceptance to the program. This reading list will focus on studies in both general theatre and the student's subplan or emphasis. The list may include works in: theatre history, performance theory, period design and production history, dramatic criticism and dramatic literature. It is expected that the student will read all materials on the list and be prepared to answer questions of comprehension as part of the final defense/ examination.


PRODUCTION REQUIREMENT:

Graduate students will participate in productions in all semesters as part of curricular requirements. Students are assigned roles in production by the Faculty with emphasis on advancing and challenging the skills of each candidate and developing their collaborative process. Performance graduates must audition and accept casting in all Nevada Conservatory Theatre productions and participate in film production assignments as cast. Design/Technology and Stage Management students will complete design assignments, managerial positions or stewardships in a variety of venues, styles, and areas. It is expected that students will accumulate a variety of diverse experiences in production/ performance that add to and refine their resume and portfolio, preparing them for the rigors of professional theatre, film, and related fields. All designated assignments are considered extensions of studio and classroom learning progress and skill acquisition.

Graduation Requirements

CREDIT REQUIREMENTS:

Candidate must complete a minimum of 60 credits with a minimum GPA of 3. 00.

FINAL DEFENSE/ EXAMINATION:

M. F. A. candidates will complete a final defense or examination reviewed by the student's Advisor or Advisory Committee, as appropriate. A candidate who successfully completes a final defense/examination will submit all appropriate paperwork to the Graduate College for graduation. A candidate who is unsuccessful in their final defense/examination will be presented conditions by the Advisor or Advisory Committee, as appropriate, to meet satisfactory expectations for completion of the defense process. If the candidate is unable to meet the conditions for completion, the student will be terminated from the program and will not proceed to graduation.

APPLY FOR GRADUATION:

Students may apply for graduation up to two semesters prior to completing their degree requirements. All required forms must be submitted to the graduate college via the Grad Rebel Gateway.

Subplan 4 Requirements: Technical Direction

Total Credits Required: 60

Required Courses - Total Credits: 42

Scholarly Studies - Credits: 9

Emphasis Specific Studies - Credits: 33

Technical Direction Studios - Credits: 18
All of these or other advisor-approved courses.
Management Studies - Credits: 3
Complete the following or other advisor-approved course.
Drafting/Rendering - Credits: 6
Select two of the following or other advisor-approved courses.
Focused Studies - Credits: 6
Select from the following or other advisor-approved courses.

Elective Courses - Credits: 12

Complete 12 credits of advisor-approved courses. Each emphasis offers a list of suggested Elective courses related to the emphasis or that enhance liberal arts studies. Recommended areas of study may include Art, Art History, Architecture, Dance, Engineering, English, Film, History, Hospitality, Languages, Literature, Management, Safety, Stage Technology, Structures, Television, Journalism, or other courses with Advisor's approval.

Creative Project - Credits: 6

Complete the following, or other advisor-approved course.

Degree Requirements

READING LIST:

A reading list will be given to each student upon acceptance to the program. This reading list will focus on studies in both general theatre and the student's subplan or emphasis. The list may include works in: theatre history, performance theory, period design and production history, dramatic criticism and dramatic literature. It is expected that the student will read all materials on the list and be prepared to answer questions of comprehension as part of the final defense/ examination.


PRODUCTION REQUIREMENT:

Graduate students will participate in productions in all semesters as part of curricular requirements. Students are assigned roles in production by the Faculty with emphasis on advancing and challenging the skills of each candidate and developing their collaborative process. Performance graduates must audition and accept casting in all Nevada Conservatory Theatre productions and participate in film production assignments as cast. Design/Technology and Stage Management students will complete design assignments, managerial positions or stewardships in a variety of venues, styles, and areas. It is expected that students will accumulate a variety of diverse experiences in production/ performance that add to and refine their resume and portfolio, preparing them for the rigors of professional theatre, film, and related fields. All designated assignments are considered extensions of studio and classroom learning progress and skill acquisition.

Graduation Requirements

CREDIT REQUIREMENTS:

Candidate must complete a minimum of 60 credits with a minimum GPA of 3. 00.

FINAL DEFENSE/ EXAMINATION:

M. F. A. candidates will complete a final defense or examination reviewed by the student's Advisor or Advisory Committee, as appropriate. A candidate who successfully completes a final defense/examination will submit all appropriate paperwork to the Graduate College for graduation. A candidate who is unsuccessful in their final defense/examination will be presented conditions by the Advisor or Advisory Committee, as appropriate, to meet satisfactory expectations for completion of the defense process. If the candidate is unable to meet the conditions for completion, the student will be terminated from the program and will not proceed to graduation.

APPLY FOR GRADUATION:

Students may apply for graduation up to two semesters prior to completing their degree requirements. All required forms must be submitted to the graduate college via the Grad Rebel Gateway.

Subplan 5 Requirements: Performance

Total Credits Required: 60

Required Courses - Total Credits: 53

Scholarly Studies – Credits: 9

Acting Technique – Credits: 8

Complete 8 credits of the following course, or other advisor-approved courses.

Scene Study Studio – Credits: 8

Complete 8 credits of the following course, or other advisor-approved courses.

Voice and Movement Laboratory – Credits: 8

Complete 8 credits of the following course, or other advisor-approved courses.

Movement Studio – Credits: 6

Complete 6 credits of the following course, or other advisor-approved courses.

Speech Studio – Credits: 4

Complete 4 credits of the following course, or other advisor-approved courses.

Audition Preparation – Credits: 2

Complete 2 credits of following course, or another advisor-approved course.

Accent/Dialect Laboratory – Credits: 2

Complete 2 credits of the following course, or another advisor-approved course.

Focused Studies - Credits: 6

Select from the following, or other advisor-approved courses.

Elective Courses – Credits: 6

Complete 6 credits of advisor-approved courses. A list of suggested Elective courses related to the area or that enhance liberal arts studies will be provided. Recommended areas of study may include Art, Art History, Dance, Film, History, Literature, Music or other courses with Advisor's approval.

Performance Project - Credits: 1

Complete the following, or other advisor-approved course.

Degree Requirements

READING LIST:

A reading list will be given to each student upon acceptance to the program. This reading list will focus on studies in both general theatre and the student's subplan or emphasis. The list may include works in: theatre history, performance theory, period design and production history, dramatic criticism and dramatic literature. It is expected that the student will read all materials on the list and be prepared to answer questions of comprehension as part of the final defense/ examination.


PRODUCTION REQUIREMENT:

Graduate students will participate in productions in all semesters as part of curricular requirements. Students are assigned roles in production by the Faculty with emphasis on advancing and challenging the skills of each candidate and developing their collaborative process. Performance graduates must audition and accept casting in all Nevada Conservatory Theatre productions and participate in film production assignments as cast. Design/Technology and Stage Management students will complete design assignments, managerial positions or stewardships in a variety of venues, styles, and areas. It is expected that students will accumulate a variety of diverse experiences in production/ performance that add to and refine their resume and portfolio, preparing them for the rigors of professional theatre, film, and related fields. All designated assignments are considered extensions of studio and classroom learning progress and skill acquisition.

Graduation Requirements

CREDIT REQUIREMENTS:

Candidate must complete a minimum of 60 credits with a minimum GPA of 3. 00.

FINAL DEFENSE/ EXAMINATION:

All M.F.A. candidates in the Performance subplan will complete a final defense or examination reviewed by a group of Theatre Department Faculty as part of their culminating experience; an advisory committee is not required.  All candidates who successfully complete a final defense/examination will submit all appropriate paperwork to the Graduate College for graduation. A candidate who is unsuccessful in their final defense/examination will be presented with conditions by the Theatre Faculty, as appropriate, to meet satisfactory expectations for completion of the defense/exam process. If the candidate is unable to meet the conditions for completion, the student will be terminated from the program and will not proceed to graduation.

APPLY FOR GRADUATION:

Students may apply for graduation up to two semesters prior to completing their degree requirements. All required forms must be submitted to the graduate college via the Grad Rebel Gateway.

Subplan 6 Requirements: Stage Management

Total Credits Required: 60

Required Courses - Total Credits: 45

Scholarly Studies – Credits: 6

Stage Management Studio – Credits: 18

Studio courses include production assignments that enhance practical skills.

Management Studies – Credits: 9

Complete the following courses, or other advisor-approved courses.

Entertainment and Fine Art Law – Credits: 6

Complete the following courses, or other advisor-approved courses.

Focused Studies - Credits: 6

Select from the following or other advisor-approved courses.

Elective Courses – Credits: 12

Complete 12 credits of advisor-approved courses. A list of suggested Elective courses related to the area or that enhance liberal arts studies will be provided. Recommended areas of study include dramatic literature, communications, hospitality, film or other theatre courses as approved by advisor.

Creative Project – Credits: 3

Complete the following, or other advisor-approved course.

Degree Requirements

READING LIST:

A reading list will be given to each student upon acceptance to the program. This reading list will focus on studies in both general theatre and the student's subplan or emphasis. The list may include works in: theatre history, performance theory, period design and production history, dramatic criticism and dramatic literature. It is expected that the student will read all materials on the list and be prepared to answer questions of comprehension as part of the final defense / examination.

PRODUCTION REQUIREMENT:

Graduate students will participate in productions in all semesters as part of curricular requirements. Students are assigned roles in production by the Faculty with emphasis on advancing and challenging the skills of each candidate and developing their collaborative process. Performance graduates must audition and accept casting in all Nevada Conservatory Theatre productions and participate in film production assignments as cast. Design/Technology and Stage Management students will complete design assignments, managerial positions or stewardships in a variety of venues, styles, and areas. It is expected that students will accumulate a variety of diverse experiences in production / performance that add to and refine their resume and portfolio, preparing them for the rigors of professional theatre, film, and related fields. All designated assignments are considered extensions of studio and classroom learning progress and skill acquisition. 

Graduation Requirements

CREDIT REQUIREMENTS:

Candidate must complete a minimum of 60 credits with a minimum GPA of 3.00.

FINAL DEFENSE / EXAMINATION:

M.F.A. candidates will complete a final defense or examination reviewed by the student's Advisor or Advisory Committee, as appropriate. A candidate who successfully completes a final defense/examination will submit all appropriate paperwork to the Graduate College for graduation. A candidate who is unsuccessful in their final defense/examination will be presented conditions by the Advisor or Advisory Committee, as appropriate, to meet satisfactory expectations for completion of the defense process. If the candidate is unable to meet the conditions for completion, the student will be terminated from the program and will not proceed to graduation.

APPLY FOR GRADUATION:

Students may apply for graduation up to two semesters prior to completing their degree requirements. All required forms must be submitted to the graduate college via the Grad Rebel Gateway.

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Department of Theatre

The department of theatre offers programs in performance, production, and technology taught by a diverse group of experienced faculty. Our in-depth programs and hands-on training provides students a strong foundation and comprehensive knowledge of theatre studies, design, performance in stage and screen, and technology and stage management.

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College of Fine Arts

The College of Fine Arts provides an academic experience that heightens awareness of the physical, intellectual, and cultural world. We diligently prepare students for professional employment and/or post-graduate study in their artistic area.

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