Overview

The Theatre - Directing and Music Direction programme at The University of Montana provides a rigorous environment for artists to refine their craft in leadership and musical staging. This Master of Fine Arts degree focuses on the intersection of narrative storytelling and musical performance within a professional academic setting.

Students benefit from the extensive resources available at the Performing Arts and Radio/Television Centre. The institution provides a dedicated space for creative exploration, allowing directors to collaborate across various disciplines including drama and film. The teaching approach emphasises practical application, ensuring that graduates are prepared for the complexities of modern theatrical production.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 38750 per year
National fee: USD 38750 per year
Local fee: USD 11158 per year

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

Why Theatre - Directing and Music Direction at The University of Montana?

The School of Theatre & Dance is housed within a comprehensive creative hub that fosters interdisciplinary innovation. Facilities include specialised rehearsal spaces and performance venues that mirror professional industry standards. The programme is noted for its commitment to developing a clear artistic philosophy in its students, preparing them for high-level roles in the performing arts.

The curriculum is supported by a faculty of experienced practitioners and scholars who provide a bridge between academic theory and professional practice. By integrating music and theatre departments, the university offers a unique environment for those specialising in music direction, providing access to diverse musical repertoires and vocal talent.

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to build a comprehensive portfolio of work through practical projects and theoretical study. Modules may include:

Directing Philosophy
Production Notebook
Musical Theatre Repertoire
Movement for Musical Theatre
Vocal Accompaniment
Theatrical Design and Technology
Research and Critical Analysis

Careers with Theatre - Directing and Music Direction

Graduates of this MFA programme are equipped to pursue senior artistic roles within the global performing arts industry. The training prepares individuals for careers as artistic directors, professional stage directors, and music directors for major theatrical organisations. Many alumni find success in regional theatres, national touring companies, and educational institutions.

The focus on leadership and production management also opens pathways into creative consultancy and arts administration. By developing a robust professional portfolio during their studies, students are well-positioned to enter the industry with a clear artistic identity and a network of professional contacts.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Theatre Design

Stagecraft: Lighting/Costumes

Theatre Production: Run Crew

Acting

Dramatic Literature

Theatre History

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 36 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-24 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-03-01 00:00:00

Language

English

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IELTS

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Credits

90 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Missoula, United States

Disciplines

Film Studies Music Drama View 1017 other Masters in Music 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

TOEFL^® IBT

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IELTS

6.5

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Other requirements

General requirements

Prior to applying for the MFA in Directing/Music Direction only: send an email to umtheatredance@umontana.edu expressing interest in applying.

Complete the Online Application (https://www.applyweb.com/apply/uomont/menu.html) As part of this process, applicants must do the following:

Self-report all colleges and universities attended (including grade point average).

Have three current letters of recommendation uploaded by recommender.

Upload a letter of intent clearly stating goals, objectives, and specialty.

Upload resume.

Pay the application fee.

Statement of Directing Philosophy and two filmed items:

-One movement from musical theatre repertoire without vocals, from a musical written between 1940 and 1960. Example: an overture, entr’acte, or dance break

-One song, accompanying a singer, from a standard (non-rock) musical.

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

38750 USD / year

≈ 38750 USD / year
Out-of-State

38750 USD / year

≈ 38750 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

11158 USD / year

≈ 11158 USD / year

Living costs

Missoula

United States

1000 - 2071 USD / month

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

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 - Directing and Music Direction.

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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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

Missoula

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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