Theater

Andrew W. Golla, director 

Faculty: Golla, Hunter, Larsen, Logan, Pulver

The master of fine arts degree program in directing introduces the student to the need for a solid research-based foundation to support a common historical, theoretical, literary, and conceptual approach to theater. In addition, the degree allows for a tightly focused emphasis on the practical skills in directing. This terminal degree program acknowledges the professional-level potential, while it also recognizes its educational applications. The requirements are evenly divided between the academic and the practical and systematically evaluated through an oral defense of both the practical and written aspects of the thesis directing project. Each student is given a minimum of two practical production opportunities, including the thesis project, which is done with full departmental support. The degree program also includes an internship in which the student serves in a production capacity with a regional professional theater-related organization.

The graduate program in directing is the only master of fine arts (M.F.A.) in directing in the state of Oregon. The degree program offers a unique combination of generalized core courses, a specialized focus on the directing and acting courses, outreach opportunities, and electives, all intended to provide excellent training for those seeking professional careers in the theater.

The master of fine arts degree in directing is designed to be a three-year (6 semester) program which involves the student in a total experiential range of activity and study related to the understanding, creation, and production of theater for a live presentation. A broad range of productions are presented each season with the emphasis on exposure to a variety of theatrical periods and styles.

Admission Requirements

1. Statement of Goals
2. Current Resume
3. Three recommendation forms and letters
4. A bachelor's degree or its equivalent from an accredited college or university recognized by the University of Portland
5. International Applicants: All foreign degrees will be evaluated by International Student Services prior to an admission decision
6. Official Transcripts (from all previously attended academic institutions)
7. Undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher (on a 4.0 scale)
8. Writing sample based upon the MFA in Directing Writing Prompt
9. Official GRE score
10. International Applicants: An official score from either the TOEFL (minimum score 0f 80) or the IELTS (minimum score of 7.0) exam is required
11. International Applicants: Proof of financial support will be required to attend the University of Portland, but is not required for application review.

Applicants will be required to have an adequate preparation in dramatic literature and theater production. A comprehensive resume must be submitted demonstrating the applicant’s background in the practical aspects of theater production, which may include experience in acting, designing, stage management, or other areas in addition to directing. Normally, only two new applicants are accepted to the program each year. Members of the theater faculty will review the application along with the standard graduate school materials listed above. Applicants will be accepted into the M.F.A. directing program based on an assessment of the ability of the program to serve the student’s goals and aspirations and of the student to contribute to the program. Once accepted, the student will work with the graduate program director on an appropriate plan, which may include prerequisite courses not carrying graduate credit.