Overview

The Directing M.F.A. at Indiana University Bloomington provides comprehensive artistic training for individuals seeking to master the complexities of theatrical leadership. This advanced programme balances theoretical study with rigorous practical application to prepare graduates for the professional industry and higher education teaching roles.

Why Directing at Indiana University Bloomington?

Students benefit from a highly selective environment, with cohorts limited to just three directors every three years to ensure personalised mentorship. The department features a faculty of tenured theatre professionals and regularly hosts guest artists who bring current industry perspectives to the studio. Facilities include dedicated production and teaching spaces that support the realisation of three major creative projects during the course of study. Additionally, the university offers competitive research and travel funds to support individual artistic growth.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 27271 per year
National fee: USD 27271 per year
Local fee: USD 27271 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum comprises a 60-hour course of study where over 75% of the credits are dedicated to directing and performance techniques. Modules may include:

Directing
Theatre Theory
Performance Technique
Classical Theatre
Contemporary Theatre
Directorial Process
Analytical and Interpretive Skills
Creative Project Research

Careers with Directing

This terminal degree is specifically structured to equip artists for high-level roles within the professional theatre sector. Graduates are prepared to work as professional directors across various genres, including realism and classical performance. Furthermore, the qualification provides the necessary credentials to teach acting and directing at the university level. The programme also facilitates internships and professional networking to assist students in transitioning from the academic studio to the global stage.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

History of Directing

Professional Development/Entrepreneurship

Reimagining the Canon

Design Collaboration

Performance Practicum

Pedagogy for Theatre

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 36 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-08-25 00:00:00

Apply anytime.

More details

Directing program is on a rolling deadline.

Language

English

Credits

60 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Bloomington, United States

Disciplines

Liberal Arts Drama View 401 other Masters in Liberal Arts 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

We are not aware of any English requirements for this programme.

Other requirements

General requirements

Each M.F.A. candidate is required to complete a major creative project each year, building a solid resume of experience. These projects are reviewed by the M.F.A. committee in your area of specialization and critiqued by your faculty advisor.

After this annual evaluation, your committee forwards a recommendation to the Graduate Committee. Those students who have clearly demonstrated growth and excellence are invited to remain in the program.

Each M.F.A. candidate also completes a thesis project in the third year. The thesis project includes an oral examination, an oral defense of the project, and an appropriate written record, following a format prescribed by the department.

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

27271 USD / year

≈ 27271 USD / year
Out-of-State

27271 USD / year

≈ 27271 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

27271 USD / year

≈ 27271 USD / year

Living costs

Bloomington

United States

1071 - 1733 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 Directing.

Available Scholarships

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

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