The Undergraduate Program
On the undergraduate level, the Department offers a B.A. in Theater. Students pursue a multi-faceted course of study divided into 1) dramaturgy 2) performance (acting and directing), and 3) design and production. Students take courses in all these areas within a flexible program that allows them to take additional classes in areas of individual interest. Currently, the Department counts about 200 majors. No audition is required for the major.
Learn more about the undergraduate program
The Graduate Program
On the graduate level, the Department offers the M.F.A. in Directing, Dramaturgy, Costume Design, Lighting Design, or Scenic Design. The program values personal mentorship, with the production season serving as a teaching laboratory. Students are able to tailor their programs of study to individual interests as a complement to the rigorous core curriculum that teaches them the skills to collaborate successfully. Most graduate students receive full tuition-waivers and assistantships during their three years.
We are currently accepting applications in Costume Design, Lighting Design, Directing, and Dramaturgy for the 2011-2012 application cycle, for the class to enter in Fall of 2012. We are not currently accepting applications in Scenic Design.
Learn more about the graduate program
Department Gallery and Archives
Theater students learn in the classroom and in the theater. The Department has two major performance venues: The Rand (a 560-seat proscenium space) and The Curtain (which seats about 90). These theaters, along with our classrooms and studios, bustle throughout the year. We produce 4-6 fully mounted “main stage” shows annually, plus a number of special presentations and co-productions. Additionally, we host dozens of more informal lab offerings as part of our Cabaret 204 series, along with many other classroom- or student-generated projects.
View images of recent and past productions and special events
Meet the Faculty and Staff
Students on both levels work with faculty and staff who are active in their field, producing work nationally and internationally and offering students the benefit of their experience and industry contacts.
Highlights:
- World class faculty
- Mentoring focus
- Small classes
- Part of 5 College Consortium (with Hampshire, Amherst, Smith, & Mt. Holyoke Colleges)
- Culturally vibrant region
Production Opportunities:
- Dept. of Theater Season
- Cabaret 204 and second stage productions and events
- 5 College Theater Dept. Seasons (Amherst College, Smith, Hampshire, & Mt. Holyoke)
- UMass Theater Guild, Improv and Sketch Comedy Clubs
- Five College Event Calendar
- Five College Theater Calendar
By the numbers:
- 200 undergraduate majors
- 13 graduate students
- Full, paid Graduate Assistantship of over $16K to all graduate students accepted to the program
- Approx. 50 courses offered each semester
