Playwriting MFA

The MFA Program in Playwriting is a comprehensive, professional training program that prepares students for writing careers in the contemporary theater. The degree is awarded on the basis of successful completion of the required courses. Additionally, a critical evaluation of writing projects must culminate in a manner to show professional competence in the field.

Coursework

Required courses will be scheduled to permit completion of coursework and projects within three years.

Students must complete of a minimum of 94 units or 23.5 courses. Of those courses:

• A minimum of 82 units or 20.5 courses must be at the graduate level.
• A maximum of 12 units of 596 courses may be applied toward the degree.
• By petition, course requirements may be fulfilled with approved alternative courses

In the first year, playwrights complete two short plays and a full length play. In the second year, playwrights complete a second full length play, a One Person play, and an additional writing project such as an adaptation for the stage or a screenplay. The third year typically includes an internship with a professional theater or film studio, or comparative environment.

Final Examination for the Degree

The program culminates in a comprehensive examination that the candidates for the degree must pass. The comprehensive examination is satisfied by fulfilling a series of creative projects appropriate to the specialization.

• On completion of this project or last quarter of residency, whichever is last, students must file for advancement to candidacy.
• The final creative project and is reviewed and evaluated by the examining faculty committee.
• Student participation in the final review is at the discretion of the committee.
• If the student fails the review and evaluation of the creative work by the examining committee, the student may, with the approval of the Chair of the Department, be re-examined.

Time to Degree

Normal progress toward the MFA degree in Playwriting involves students to be enrolled in their specialized area for a continuous period until all required courses are completed, typically seven to nine quarters.

• Students must enroll in a minimum of twelve units per quarter.
• The maximum residency allowable is twelve quarters.