Overview

The Design and Technology M.F.A. at the University of Minnesota provides comprehensive training for the next generation of theatrical makers and creative dreamers. This advanced programme is deeply integrated into the Twin Cities theatre community, offering students a unique blend of academic rigour and professional practice. Participants explore complex artistic challenges while mastering the technical nuances of modern performance environments.

The curriculum emphasises collaborative learning and real-world problem-solving to ensure graduates are prepared for the evolving demands of the arts industry. By working across various disciplines, students gain the versatility required to excel in diverse creative roles. The department fosters an environment where innovation and communication are central to the design process.

Why Design and Technology at the University of Minnesota?

Students benefit from the university's location in a major national theatre hub, providing direct access to professional internships and overhire opportunities. The Rarig Center serves as a premier training ground, featuring a proscenium, a thrust stage, and two black box theatres for diverse production experiences.

The programme maintains strong industry links, including a professional scene shop that builds scenery for the nationally recognised Penumbra Theatre. Collaborative projects extend beyond the arts, such as the interdepartmental partnership with the Chemistry Department for large-scale educational events. Additionally, students work alongside artists with national reputations, bridging the gap between classroom learning and career opportunities.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 1500 per credit
National fee: USD 1500 per credit
Local fee: USD 620 per credit

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

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Scenic Design
Costume Design
Lighting Design
Sound Design
Technical Production
Collaborative Design Process
Season Selection
Advanced Technology Skills

Careers with Design and Technology

Graduates are highly sought after by performing arts organisations both locally and nationally. The programme prepares students for professional roles in scenic, costume, lighting, and sound design within the theatre and dance sectors. Alumni frequently secure positions in professional scene shops and major regional theatres.

The focus on career readiness ensures that students transition smoothly into the workforce as designers, technicians, and production specialists. Many graduates find success within the Twin Cities' extensive arts network, contributing to musical theatre, devised works, and world-premier dance performances.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Drawing, Rendering, and Painting for the Theatre Designer
Scene Design
Lighting Design for the Theatre
Costume Technology
Audio Engineering
Multimedia Production for Live Performance

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 36 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-08 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-03-31 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

115

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TOEFL^® IBT

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PTE Academic

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

60 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Minneapolis, United States

Disciplines

Design Visual Arts Art and Craft View 447 other Masters in Design in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

115

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

Admission to a UMN graduate program requires a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution in the U.S., or a comparable degree from outside the U.S.
Many graduate programs require letters of recommendation, submitted and uploaded online.
Unofficial copies of all post-secondary coursework and degrees are required with your application.

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

30000 USD / year

≈ 30000 USD / year
Out-of-State

30000 USD / year

≈ 30000 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

12400 USD / year

≈ 12400 USD / year

Living costs

Minneapolis

United States

1130 - 2045 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 Design and Technology.

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

Minneapolis

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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