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M.A./M.S. in Theatre

MFA in Theatre: Acting

MFA in Theatre: Directing

MFA in Theatre: Scene Design

MFA in Theatre: Lighting Design

MFA in Theatre: Costume Design

MBA with a concentration in Arts Management

Graduate Plan of Study Form (pdf)

Graduate Plan of Study Instructions (pdf)

 

Graduate Programs

The School of Theatre at Illinois State University offers three graduate programs: Master of Arts, Master of Science, and Master of Fine Arts. In addition, a Master of Business Administration with a curricular concentration in Arts Management is offered through the College of Business in cooperation with the School of Theatre and the College of Fine Arts.

The Illinois State University School of Theatre is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Theatre and is a member of the University/Resident Theatre Association.

Master of Arts/Master of Science

The M.A. and M.S. degrees are general degrees based on the assumption that the student should experience a broad range of courses covering most aspects of theatre.

While the main focus of the M.A./M.S. degree program is to prepare students for future doctoral studies in theatre, the program can also serve as an exploratory degree for students interested in pursuing professional careers in theatre but unsure whether their focus will be scholarly or artistic. The program provides an excellent foundation for future M.F.A. as well as Ph.D. studies.

In addition, an M.A./M.S. degree may lead to an entry level position teaching general courses at a two-year college.

Master of Fine Arts in Theatre

The Master of Fine Arts in Theatre is a terminal degree designed for those seeking a career as a professional artist. The M.F.A. degree also prepares these artists to teach in a studio area at the university level. The program emphasizes both theory and practice.

The School of Theatre offers five areas of study for M.F.A. students: Acting, Directing, Scene Design, Lighting Design, and Costume Design.

Master of Business Administration in Arts Management

The Master of Business Administration with a curricular concentration in Arts Management program is designed to prepare students for careers in upper level arts administration. The M.B.A. also serves as a terminal degree, a requirement for most university teaching positions.

The M.B.A. is administered through the College of Business. Students follow the curriculum specified by the College of Business in their M.B.A. program, with electives taken in the School of Theatre.