The MFA is a terminal degree for the creative artists and educators, and provides training for increased professional competencies in the specialized areas of Theatre and Dance. The department offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to balance students' practical training with historical and socio-political context to prepare them as creative and scholarly practitioners in the performing arts. Students’ ability to think critically and act globally equips them with the necessary knowledge and skills to enter professional lives as performers, choreographers, technicians, designers, educators, arts administrators, arts advocates, and leaders in the arts. As a result, they emerge from the program with greater global, historical, racial, cultural, gender, and justice literacy in their fields.
Program Requirements
Common Core
Theatre Performance Core
A study and practice of dialects most often used in performance. ALT-S
- Prerequisites:
- none
An exploration of basic skills involved in unarmed combat and a variety of historical weapons systems with primary emphasis on theatricality and safety. F
- Prerequisites:
- none
Survey of theatrical history from its origins to 1700. ALT-S
- Prerequisites:
- none
Survey of theatrical history from 1700 to the present. ALT-S
- Prerequisites:
- none
Advanced study and exercises in vocal development.S
- Prerequisites:
- none
Survey of drama and theatre critics from Aristotle to the present.
- Prerequisites:
- none
Theatre Design/Production Core
Exposes students to the functions of theatre managers through case studies, discussions, practical application and readings. ALT-S
- Prerequisites:
- none
Development of techniques and skills in the creation of scenery. F
- Prerequisites:
- none
The study of lighting equipment, usage, techniques, and stage lighting design. S
- Prerequisites:
- none
Survey of theatrical history from its origins to 1700. ALT-S
- Prerequisites:
- none
Survey of theatrical history from 1700 to the present. ALT-S
- Prerequisites:
- none
This class teaches how to access historical information and present it to directors, actors or designers in a way that will help them make informed and practical artistic choices.
- Prerequisites:
- none
Communication skill enhancement between the director and designers of complex theatrical productions.
- Prerequisites:
- none
Exploring the techniques of building a working design/technical portfolio and resume. F
- Prerequisites:
- none
Survey of drama and theatre critics from Aristotle to the present.
- Prerequisites:
- none
Dance Core - Must take DANC 580 2 times.
Course develops skills to plan, find, secure and thrive in career path in either the professional or academic field.
- Prerequisites:
- none
Students will design, plan, and execute a project that parallels their area of interest.
- Prerequisites:
- none
Study and practice of specific techniques to improve dancers' performance, health, and teaching.
- Prerequisites:
- none
The focus of the course is on lesson planning, assessment, and teaching.
- Prerequisites:
- none
Cross-cultural survey of dance with emphasis on historical, social and culturaldimensions
- Prerequisites:
- none
Exploration of the creative process and a variety of improvisation techniques.
- Prerequisites:
- none
Historical survey of Western theatrical dance from the 1500s to the present. Also integrates reading and discussion about how class, gender, and race affected the development of concert dance history in the United States and Europe.
- Prerequisites:
- none
Survey of drama and theatre critics from Aristotle to the present.
- Prerequisites:
- none
Research/Methods Course(s)
Techniques in advanced theatre research and appropriate project and thesis. F
- Prerequisites:
- none
Restricted Electives
* Acting Track must take 6 credits of 621/622.
* Musical Theatre Track must take 8 credits of 621/622
* Must take 611 six (6) times.
* Directing specialization must take THEA 630 4 times.
Theatre Performance Track (choose one specialization)
Theatre: Acting Specialization Core
A performance based class concentrating on using the song as the basis for acting.
- Prerequisites:
- none
Advanced scene studies with a focus on analysis and the varied approaches to developing motivations. ALT-S
- Prerequisites:
- none
Advanced scene studies in classical and stylized dramatic literature. ALT-S
- Prerequisites:
- none
Development of performance craft for the media. ALT-S
- Prerequisites:
- none
Advanced study and development of individual performance, craft, and acting methodologies. F
- Prerequisites:
- none
Individual exploration of ballet, jazz, modern, or tap dance based upon the student's expertise.F
- Prerequisites:
- none
Continuation of Advanced Theatre Movement I. S
- Prerequisites:
- none
Theatre: Acting Specialization Electives - Choose 3 Credit(s).
Survey of the history of the American Musical Theatre from its origins to the present.
- Prerequisites:
- none
This class teaches how to access historical information and present it to directors, actors or designers in a way that will help them make informed and practical artistic choices.
- Prerequisites:
- none
Musical Theatre Specialization Core
A performance based class concentrating on using the song as the basis for acting.
- Prerequisites:
- none
Introductory survey of American Musical Theatre history and repertoire as well as performance techniques for the singing actor. ALT-F
- Prerequisites:
- none
Survey of the history of the American Musical Theatre from its origins to the present.
- Prerequisites:
- none
Private lessons in developing the actor's singing voice. May be repeated.
- Prerequisites:
- none
Individual exploration of ballet, jazz, modern, or tap dance based upon the student's expertise.F
- Prerequisites:
- none
Continuation of Advanced Theatre Movement I. S
- Prerequisites:
- none
Musical Theatre Specialization Electives - Choose 6 Credit(s).
Advanced scene studies with a focus on analysis and the varied approaches to developing motivations. ALT-S
- Prerequisites:
- none
The development of individual performance craft and advanced acting methodologies. ALT-F
- Prerequisites:
- none
Advanced scene studies in classical and stylized dramatic literature. ALT-S
- Prerequisites:
- none
Theatre: Directing Specialization Core
Exposes students to the functions of theatre managers through case studies, discussions, practical application and readings. ALT-S
- Prerequisites:
- none
Advanced studies in script analysis, actor psychology, and staging techniques culminating in performance projects with critical analysis. S
- Prerequisites:
- none
This class teaches how to access historical information and present it to directors, actors or designers in a way that will help them make informed and practical artistic choices.
- Prerequisites:
- none
Theory and Practice of basic design principles geared for the theatrical director. The course may be repeated to include set, costume, lighting, and sound design.F, S
- Prerequisites:
- none
Continuation of Advanced Directing Methods I. S
- Prerequisites:
- none
Communication skill enhancement between the director and designers of complex theatrical productions.
- Prerequisites:
- none
Theatre: Directing Specialization Electives - Choose 3 Credit(s).
Advanced scene studies with a focus on analysis and the varied approaches to developing motivations. ALT-S
- Prerequisites:
- none
The development of individual performance craft and advanced acting methodologies. ALT-F
- Prerequisites:
- none
Advanced scene studies in classical and stylized dramatic literature. ALT-S
- Prerequisites:
- none
Development of performance craft for the media. ALT-S
- Prerequisites:
- none
Theatre Design/Production Track (choose one specialization)
Theatre: Scene Design Specialization
Refinement of model building and drawing skills in theatrical design. S
- Prerequisites:
- none
A visual appreciation of assorted cultures through the study of their architecture, decoration, furniture, utensils, etc.
- Prerequisites:
- none
Production and sound effects, electronic sound reinforcement of live performance, choice and operation of sound equipment, as well as basic music styles and terminology. S
- Prerequisites:
- none
Advanced theatrical scene painting techniques.
- Prerequisites:
- none
Exploring compositional organization of the two-dimensional surface by experimenting with a variety of media, materials, forms, approaches and subjects as a means for theatrical communication.
- Prerequisites:
- none
Advanced techniques in theatre drafting and CAD for the theatre design professional.
- Prerequisites:
- none
Advanced study and practical application techniques in either scene, costume, or lighting design. F, S
- Prerequisites:
- none
Theatre: Costume Design Specialization - Choose 21 Credit(s). * Elective credits must include 3 credits of 600 level electives and 3 cr Ind Study
Theory and techniques in costume design and execution. F
- Prerequisites:
- none
Advanced costume design theory and techniques. ALT-S
- Prerequisites:
- none
Survey of costume history from ancient Egypt to 1900. ALT-S
- Prerequisites:
- none
Exploring compositional organization of the two-dimensional surface by experimenting with a variety of media, materials, forms, approaches and subjects as a means for theatrical communication.
- Prerequisites:
- none
Advanced study and practical application techniques in either scene, costume, or lighting design. F, S
- Prerequisites:
- none
Advanced independent study. F,S
- Prerequisites:
- none
Theatre: Lighting Design Specialization - Choose 21 Credit(s). * Electives must include 3 cr 500-level and 2 cr 600-level electives
Solving particular lighting design challenges. ALT-F
- Prerequisites:
- none
Production and sound effects, electronic sound reinforcement of live performance, choice and operation of sound equipment, as well as basic music styles and terminology. S
- Prerequisites:
- none
Advanced exploration of all aspects of theatrical stage management activities through specific theoretical and practical study.
- Prerequisites:
- none
Advanced techniques in theatre drafting and CAD for the theatre design professional.
- Prerequisites:
- none
Advanced study and practical application techniques in either scene, costume, or lighting design. F, S
- Prerequisites:
- none
Computer realization for virtual lighting design to enhance practical production quality.
- Prerequisites:
- none
Theatre: Sound Design Specialization - * Electives must include 3 cr 500-level and 3 cr 600-level electives
Production and sound effects, electronic sound reinforcement of live performance, choice and operation of sound equipment, as well as basic music styles and terminology. S
- Prerequisites:
- none
Integrated sound design to support and enhance theatrical production.
- Prerequisites:
- none
Advanced techniques in theatre drafting and CAD for the theatre design professional.
- Prerequisites:
- none
Advanced study and practical application techniques in either scene, costume, or lighting design. F, S
- Prerequisites:
- none
A study of the concepts behind digital audio and an exploration of their practical uses.
- Prerequisites:
- none
Theatre: Technical Direction Specialization - * Electives must include 3 cr 500-level and 3 cr 600-level electives
Explores duties and construction techniques of the theatre technical director including budgeting, stage machinery, theatrical systems, and project management. ALT-F
- Prerequisites:
- none
Production and sound effects, electronic sound reinforcement of live performance, choice and operation of sound equipment, as well as basic music styles and terminology. S
- Prerequisites:
- none
Advanced techniques in theatre drafting and CAD for the theatre design professional.
- Prerequisites:
- none
Explores advanced facets of technical direction including entertainment engineering and technology currently in use in the field.
- Prerequisites:
- none
Advanced study and practical application techniques in either scene, costume, or lighting design. F, S
- Prerequisites:
- none
Dance Track - Select one area of specialization.
Dance Performance Specialization Core - * Must take DANC 528 five (5) times.
Repertory experience in performance of the choreography by a variety of danceartists. May be repeated.
- Prerequisites:
- none
Course will advance individual student's compositional skills through her/his solo and group projects in an self-paced manner.
- Prerequisites:
- none
Dance Performance Specialization Theatre Electives - Choose 10 Credit(s). * Take any combination of THEA 621 and 622 to total 10 credits.
Individual exploration of ballet, jazz, modern, or tap dance based upon the student's expertise.F
- Prerequisites:
- none
Continuation of Advanced Theatre Movement I. S
- Prerequisites:
- none
Dance Performance Specialization General Electives - Choose 3 Credit(s).
- Prerequisites:
- none
Dance Choreography Specialization Core - * Must take DANC 499 4 times.
Repertory experience in performance of the choreography by a variety of danceartists. May be repeated.
- Prerequisites:
- none
Course will advance individual student's compositional skills through her/his solo and group projects in an self-paced manner.
- Prerequisites:
- none
Principles and techniques of choreography with an emphasis on group forms.
- Prerequisites:
- none
Dance Choreography Specialization Theatre Electives - Choose 6 Credit(s). * Take any combination of THEA 621 and 622 to total 6 credits.
Individual exploration of ballet, jazz, modern, or tap dance based upon the student's expertise.F
- Prerequisites:
- none
Continuation of Advanced Theatre Movement I. S
- Prerequisites:
- none
Dance Choreography Specialization General Electives - Choose 6 Credit(s).
- Prerequisites:
- none
Dance Track Electives - Choose 16 Credit(s).
Rotation of a variety of topics in dance. May be repeated.
- Prerequisites:
- none
A performance based class concentrating on using the song as the basis for acting.
- Prerequisites:
- none
Introductory survey of American Musical Theatre history and repertoire as well as performance techniques for the singing actor. ALT-F
- Prerequisites:
- none
Exposes students to the functions of theatre managers through case studies, discussions, practical application and readings. ALT-S
- Prerequisites:
- none
Concepts and application of costume design and production for the Dance.
- Prerequisites:
- none
Concepts and application of lighting design and production for the Dance.
- Prerequisites:
- none
Concepts and application of sound design and production for the Dance.
- Prerequisites:
- none
Survey of theatrical history from 1700 to the present. ALT-S
- Prerequisites:
- none
Survey of the history of the American Musical Theatre from its origins to the present.
- Prerequisites:
- none
Advanced study and development of individual performance, craft, and acting methodologies. F
- Prerequisites:
- none
Communication skill enhancement between the director and designers of complex theatrical productions.
- Prerequisites:
- none
Capstone Course
* Theatre Performance must choose 3 credits of Thesis and 5-6 credits of Internship.
* Theatre Design/Production must choose 3 credits of Thesis and 4 credits of Internship.
* Dance must choose 3 credits of Thesis.
Capstone project.
- Prerequisites:
- none
- Prerequisites:
- none
- Prerequisites:
- none
Choose 6 Credit(s). Consult with your advisor on options.
Special assignments in stage management, house and/or concessions management, public relations, recruitment, and related areas. F,S
- Prerequisites:
- none
Preparation and execution of a major scene design assignment. Requires a design and construction schedule, preliminary and final design concepts, necessary drafting details, and a final evaluation of the finished project. F,S
- Prerequisites:
- none
A considerable production responsibility dealing with some technical aspect including technical drawings, budget management, and construction techniques. F,S
- Prerequisites:
- none
Full and assistant costume design assignments for production offered to aid in development of techniques and creativity. F,S
- Prerequisites:
- none
The construction of costumes for theatre productions, used to increase student's skills in advanced costume construction. F,S
- Prerequisites:
- none
Preparation and execution of a major lighting design assignment with appropriate schedules, supervision of hanging, focusing, and cues, with a final evaluation of the finished product. F,S
- Prerequisites:
- none
Preparation and execution of a major sound design assignment including all sound effects, reinforcement, and amplification. F,S
- Prerequisites:
- none
Degree
Master of Fine Arts
Major Credits
60
Total Credits
60
Locations
Mankato
Career Cluster
Arts, Audio