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University of Montana Catalog 2026-2027

Theatre M.F.A. - Directing

General Graduate Program Requirements

Graduate School policies and standards can be found on the Graduate School Policies page

The minimum GPA for any graduate program is 3.0. Individual programs may require more than a 3.0 to remain in good standing. 

The minimum grade for a course to be accepted toward any master’s or doctoral requirement is C. The minimum grade for a course to be accepted toward a certificate program is B-. Individual programs may require higher grades for specific courses.

Master of Fine Arts - Theatre: Directing Concentration

Based on the student’s transcript and professional experience within the field, courses may be added, substituted, or waived with approval of the program head and Director of the School of Theatre and Dance.  

Course Requirements

In addition to the requirements below, students must:

  • Serve as teaching assistant for THTR 375.
  • Serve as stage manager for faculty director.
  • Serve as assistant director to faculty director.
  • Complete three major directing projects, the last being part of the Final Creative Project
Required Courses
Complete all of the following courses:
THTR 475Directing II3
THTR 476Directing III3
THTR 484Advanced Acting: Professional Skills1
THTR 501Introduction to Graduate Studies1
THTR 513Graduate Voice & Speech I3
THTR 515Graduate Physical Performance Skills3
THTR 520Graduate Acting I3
THTR 532Graduate Seminar in Dramaturgy3
THTR 5393
THTR 545Graduate Design Seminar: Collaboration2
THTR 570Graduate Stage Management3
THTR 572Stage Management Practicum1
THTR 577Directing IV3
THTR 578Directing V3
THTR 595Practicum (Directing)4
THTR 675Directing VI3
THTR 599Thesis/Professional Paper/Final Creative Project3
Electives
Complete 15 credits of electives chosen in consultation with your advisor. At least one course must be a 500-level course in the School of Theatre and Dance. At least one course must be a graduate-level course outside of the School in a discipline relevant to the Final Creative Project.15
Total Hours60