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2024-2025 Graduate Catalog
Master of Fine Arts - Theatre
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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
- Completed application in the Application Portal and non-refundable application fee.
- Bachelor’s Degree – You must hold a four-year baccalaureate from a regionally accredited institution or an approved equivalent.
- 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).
- 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.
- 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.
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. Plan 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.
Plan 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 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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