Overview

The Theatre M.F.A. at the University of South Carolina provides a rigorous environment for students to refine their artistic skills and professional intelligence. This advanced degree focuses on preparing individuals for the complexities of the modern performing arts industry through conservatory-style instruction and practical application. Students engage deeply with their chosen craft while building a robust portfolio or performance resume.

Why Theatre at the University of South Carolina?

The institution offers a distinctive blend of academic rigour and professional exposure, allowing students to work alongside seasoned faculty and visiting guest artists. A significant advantage of the programme is the availability of graduate assistantships and financially supported professional internships, which provide vital industry experience. Facilities and curriculum support a wide range of specialisations, ensuring that graduates are prepared for the competitive nature of the global theatre landscape.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 572 per credit
National fee: USD 572 per credit
Local fee: USD 572 per credit

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

Syllabus

The curriculum combines studio practice with theoretical analysis to ensure a comprehensive understanding of dramatic forms. Students must complete a professional internship and a final thesis project to demonstrate their mastery. Modules may include:

Dramatic Action and Character Development
Film, Technology and Design
Costume Design and Technology
Lighting Design
Scenic Design
Theatre and Drama
Studio Practice
Written Documentation and Performance

Careers with Theatre

Graduates from this programme are equipped with the creative and organisational skills necessary for high-level roles within the entertainment and education sectors. The training focuses on developing professional intelligence, innovation, and collaborative abilities that are highly valued in the performing arts. Former students have successfully transitioned into various professional environments, securing roles such as:

Professional Actor
Scenic, Lighting, or Costume Designer
Theatre Technician
Drama Educator
Regional Theatre Resident Artist

The programme's strong links to regional theatres and the focus on professional-grade portfolios ensure that graduates are prepared for employment in commercial entertainment, non-profit arts organisations, and academic institutions.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Acting (Contemporary, Classical)
Film and Television Acting
Theatre Design (Costume, Scenic, Lighting, Sound)
Theatre History
Play Direction
Stage Management
Theatre Production Experiences

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 36 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-08-18 00:00:00

Application deadline not specified.
Starting 2027-01-11 00:00:00

Application deadline not specified.

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

120

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

63 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Columbia, United States

Disciplines

Design Music Drama View 447 other Masters in Design in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

120

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

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

Curriculum Vitae/Resume
Official Transcripts
Personal Statement
3 Letters of Recommendation
Additional Supporting Materials (depending on concentration)

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

12012 USD / year

≈ 12012 USD / year
Out-of-State

12012 USD / year

≈ 12012 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

12012 USD / year

≈ 12012 USD / year

Living costs

Columbia

United States

999 - 1508 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.

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

Columbia

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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