Overview

The Theatre Arts M.F.A. at University of Nebraska-Lincoln offers comprehensive professional training within the Johnny Carson School of Theatre and Film. This three-year programme is designed to bridge the gap between academic study and the professional industry through rigorous practical experience. Students engage in advanced technical work while developing a deep understanding of dramatic theory and theatre history.

Why Theatre Arts at University of Nebraska-Lincoln?

Students benefit from training in the historic Temple Building, which houses specialised venues including the Howell Theatre, the Studio Theatre, and the Lab Theatre. The programme is distinguished by its mentor-guided approach, where faculty members work closely with students in scenic, lighting, and costume design. Additionally, the university provides opportunities for teaching assistantships and graduate fellowships to support students during their three years of residency.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 22198 per year
National fee: USD 22198 per year
Local fee: USD 8950 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum balances technical mastery with theoretical foundations, requiring 60 credit hours of study. Modules may include:

Scene Design
Lighting Design
Costume Design
Computer-aided Design
Stage Rigging
Digital Motion Graphics
Stage Technology
Dramatic Theory
Theatre History

Careers with Theatre Arts

Graduates are prepared for high-level roles in the entertainment industry, specifically within design and technical production for live performance. The programme's focus on professional standards and portfolio development ensures that students are ready for careers in research, scholarly work, or professional practice. By participating in nationwide interviews and portfolio presentations, students establish vital connections with the wider theatrical community and resident theatre associations.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Costume Crafts

Advanced Voice Techniques

Auditioning

Advanced Projects in Technical Theatre

Stage Lighting

Scene Design

Masters Scenic Design Studio

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 36 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-23 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-03-10 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

120

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

60 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Lincoln, United States

Disciplines

Drama View 256 other Masters in Drama in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

120

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Application for Admission with $50 non-refundable application fee.

Transcripts (unofficial): Uploaded as part of application form.

Resume/CV

Personal Statement: Discuss and explain your interest in theatre design and/or technology (350 words).

Portfolio

Writing Sample: Provide up to 2 samples of your writing which demonstrate your capacity in communication. Feel free to use an undergraduate paper you may have written, a memo (or memos) you may have written for an employer, or even a diary account that you believe best expresses your ideas.

Research Interest: Indicate your area of interest: Scene Design, Lighting Design, Costume Design, or Theatre Technology.

Faculty: Review current faculty and their areas of research. Identify a faculty member with whom you would like to work.

Three letters of recommendation: We accept letters of recommendation from individuals who know your work best, such as former teachers, professors, employers, or supervisors.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

22198 USD / year

≈ 22198 USD / year
Out-of-State

22198 USD / year

≈ 22198 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

8950 USD / year

≈ 8950 USD / year

Living costs

Lincoln

United States

926 - 1371 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Theatre Arts.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

On this page

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Lincoln

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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