Master of Fine Arts in Acting

The M.F.A in Acting program was conceived with the belief that one of the best systems of theatre training is an intensive, performance-guided experience based on a series of European and American classics, combined with noteworthy contemporary plays performed in rotating repertory. Continual performance before a live audience is considered a fundamental part of the learning process. Highlighted explorations include the processes of Konstantin Stanislavsky, Michael Chekhov, Jacques Lecoq, and Sanford Meisner. Styles and genres covered include psychological realism, neutral mask, Greek chorus, commedia dell'arte, high comedy, revenge tragedy, Shakespeare and expressionismsurrealism. Movement classes emphasize alignment, agility and strength, as well as period dancedeportment and Pilates. Voice classes employ a somatic approach based in the work of Catherine Fitzmaurice.The department regularly invites guest artists and teachers who provide additional instruction in movement, dance, acting, voice and Shakespearean text analysis, as well as professional talent agents from a variety of regions who offer additional industry insight and training.

A headshotResume3 letters of recommendationUnofficial transcriptsTo be considered for graduate admission, applicants must have completed an appropriate university-level program comparable in subject matter and credits to a Wayne State bachelor's degree program. While a degree in another country may have a similar name to a U.S. degree, that doesn't mean it requires similar lengths and content of study or that it should be accepted as equivalent.All graduate applicants must:Present an excellent scholastic recordHave sufficient financial resources for minimum tuition, supplies and living expensesBe proficient in EnglishApplicants whose native language is not English must meet one of the following language proficiency requirements for admission: (1) submit an English language qualifying score, (2) receive provisional admission through the Wayne State University English Language Institute (ELI), (3) qualify for English proficiency exemption.To establish English proficiency, you are required to submit an official qualifying score meeting minimum Graduate School requirements. The Graduate School's English Language Proficiency requirements are the absolute minimum; programs can set higher minimum standards. You are expected to meet the requirements set by your program of interest