Theater Arts (MFA)
The master of fine arts is the terminal degree for those planning to work or teach in theatrical production. We offer three-year programs of study in scenic design, costume design, and lighting design, or a pairing of two of these areas. Some students also work on technical direction. Completion involves a creative project with an accompanying written report.
We do not offer the master of fine arts degree in acting, directing, or playwriting.
The master of fine arts in theater arts at the University of Oregon includes both academic and production components. In comparison to the master's degree, it requires additional credit hours in design and technology, and the satisfactory completion of a design project with a written component. Students are approved to begin work on a final project after a satisfactory qualifying presentation given to the full faculty.
The qualifying presentation is usually scheduled during the winter term of the second year. All master of fine arts final projects are juried by the full faculty and must demonstrate high artistic ability. The degree requires a minimum of 88 credit hours beyond the bachelor’s degree. The minimum requirement for financial aid and a graduate employee appointment is nine credits. Students most commonly enroll for 12 credits per term, including practicum credits, except for the term in which the final project is being executed when the minimum of 9 credits is recommended.
Program Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to:
- Demonstrate mastery of subject content and technical skills though course work.
- Demonstrate effective artistic, oral, and written communication skills.
- Demonstrate pedagogic ability in teaching and/or supervising undergraduates.
- Develop technical and artistic skills necessary to carry out and report on a significant "Final Project" (as outlined in the Graduate Handbook).
Master of Fine Arts Degree Requirements
The following are minimum requirements, all of which must be taken for a letter grade with the exception of Research: [Topic] (TA 601) and Terminal Project (TA 609).
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| TA 601 | Research: [Topic] | 4 |
| TA 607 | Seminar: [Topic] 1 | 8 |
| TA 609 | Terminal Project | 16 |
| Design and technology courses 2 | 24 | |
| Theater history, literature, and theory courses at the 500 and 600 level | 8 | |
| Related courses outside the department 3 | 8 | |
| At least one course from acting, directing, dramaturgy, or stage management | 4 | |
| Additional graded graduate-level theater arts course work | 16 | |
| Total Credits | 88 | |
- 1
Course topics change every term. The MFA requires at least 8 credits. Students may also take approved and graded 600-level course work.
- 2
Must include at least one course each in lighting, scenery, and costumes.
- 3
With advisor approval, undergraduate courses at the 300 level may apply.
Additional Requirements
- A minimum grade point average of 3.00
- Completion and approval of a final project and written document
The master of fine arts degree does not require proficiency in a second language. Coursework is substantially completed during the first years; the MFA program typically takes three years to complete.