The MFA in Design is a program for individuals who have a background in theatre design or production, or in a related art and design field such as interior design, fashion, architecture, drawing, and painting, who wish to pursue new areas of study in set design, costume design, or lighting design for the performing arts.

Working closely with a distinguished design faculty, including John Iacovelli, Maggie Morgan, and Thomas J. Munn, and with the many professional artists who visit the department, students focus on developing their design skills within an interdisciplinary context. A faculty mentor collaborates with each student to devise a curriculum that will support the evolution of the student's craft, artistic curiosity, and professional goals. Students are also encouraged to complete an internship with a professional theatre company or a faculty member.

Our design students have unique opportunities to do practical work, based on their level of expertise, on Department productions, one of which may be designated as the student’s thesis production. In the first year a candidate might design a production by undergraduates or by another MFA candidate, or assist a faculty designer, visiting professional designer, or second-year MFA designer. A second-year candidate might design a production directed by a Granada Artist-in-Residence or another visiting artist, or by a faculty member.

Design critiques in a group discussion format with faculty and classmates are held for each student-designed production, and second-year students are encouraged to show their work at professional and academic conferences such as USITT and the Design Showcase West.

For more information, see the MFA Handbook.