Theater-Directing MFA | Temple University

Master of Fine Arts in Directing

Develop skills as an artistic leader and creative communicator with the Master of Fine Arts in Directing in Temple’s School of Theater, Film and Media Arts. The goal of this three-year, 60-credit theater program is to train students to become master storytellers. Collaborate with actors, production teams and writers to deliver a unified, compelling theatrical event. The program is primarily designed to prepare graduates for careers in theater.

Culminating in the Thesis Production, the student's fully supported mainstage event, the Theater-Directing MFA curriculum includes

acting and movement,
dramaturgy,
design and
film.

In addition, you are encouraged to participate in projects such as a stage reading or new plays.

Full-time Theater Department faculty—award-winning professionals who have led some of the most successful productions in American theater—are available to mentor students individually. Students can also take advantage of Temple's affiliations with numerous professional theaters including the following.

The city of Philadelphia’s thriving arts scene provides the perfect backdrop for students interested in pursuing a creative degree.

A female student is directing actors on stage.

Program Format & Curriculum

Through design, staging, thematic and theatrical interpretation, and artistic/team collaboration and leadership, the curriculum focuses primarily on the director’s commitment to the illumination of text for an audience.

Required courses include

Directing Practicum,
Seminar in Dramatic Literature I,
Seminar in Dramatic Literature II and
Teaching in Higher Education.

Depending on your focus, you may also have the opportunity to pursue classes tailored to your specific interests.

Learn more about Theater-Directing MFA courses.

Related Graduate Degrees

Related Graduate Certificates

Documentary Arts and Ethnographic Research

Tuition & Fees

In keeping with Temple’s commitment to access and affordability, this Master of Fine Arts offers a competitive level of tuition with multiple opportunities for financial support.

Tuition rates are set annually by the university and are affected by multiple factors, including program degree level (undergraduate or graduate), course load (full- or part-time), in-state or out-of-state residency, and more. These tuition costs apply to the 2024–2025 academic year.

Pennsylvania resident: $1,221.00 per credit
Out-of-state: $1,634.00 per credit

You can view the full cost of attendance breakdown on the Student Financial Services website.

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