M.F.A. in Theatre

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 50

Academic Requirements:

1. Undergraduate Degree: Applicants should hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution.  

2. Grade Point Average (GPA): International students are required to have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 60% or higher on a scale determined by the applicant's home country's grading system.

English Language Proficiency:

1. IELTS: An overall score of at least 6.0 with no individual band score below 6.0.

2. TOEFL iBT: A minimum overall score of 73 on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) internet-based test.

3. DET (Duolingo English Test): A score of at least 105.

4. PTE (Pearson Test of English): A minimum score of 49.

Western Illinois University (WIU) offers several scholarships to international students to assist them in financing their education. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, talents, leadership, and other criteria. 

1. Presidential Scholarships: These scholarships are among the most prestigious at WIU and are awarded to academically exceptional students. They cover a significant portion of tuition costs and are renewable for up to eight semesters.

2. International Commitment Scholarships: WIU offers a range of international commitment scholarships to incoming international undergraduate students. These scholarships are based on academic merit and are available at varying levels of funding.

3. International Transfer Scholarships: Transfer students from international institutions can apply for transfer scholarships to help fund their education at WIU. The scholarship amounts may vary based on academic achievement.

4. Global Excellence Scholarships: These scholarships are designed to recognize and support outstanding international students. They are awarded based on academic performance, leadership, and community involvement.

5. International Peace Scholarship: WIU offers this scholarship to female international students who have a strong commitment to international understanding and peace. It's part of the P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship Fund.

6. Graduate Assistantships: WIU provides graduate assistantship opportunities to international graduate students. These positions offer a stipend, tuition waiver, and valuable work experience within the university.

7. College and Departmental Scholarships: Various colleges and departments within WIU offer scholarships to international students pursuing specific fields of study. Eligibility criteria and award amounts may vary by department.

8. Foundation Scholarships: WIU's Foundation administers a wide range of scholarships, some of which are available to international students. These scholarships are often based on specific majors or criteria defined by donors.

9. External Scholarships: International students are encouraged to explore external scholarship opportunities, both in their home countries and through international organizations, to help finance their education at WIU.

10. Fulbright Scholar Program: While not directly administered by WIU, international students can apply for the prestigious Fulbright Scholar Program, which provides funding for academic and cultural exchange opportunities in the United States.

To apply for scholarships at WIU, international students typically need to submit an application for admission and a separate scholarship application, if required. Deadlines and eligibility criteria can vary.

The Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.) in Theatre program at Western Illinois University (WIU) is designed to provide students with advanced training in various aspects of theatre, including acting, directing, design, and production. Graduates of this program are well-prepared for diverse and rewarding career opportunities in the world of theatre and entertainment.   

1. Professional Acting Careers: Many M.F.A. graduates choose to pursue careers as professional actors. With advanced training and experience gained during the program, they are equipped to audition for and perform in regional theaters, repertory companies, touring productions, and even Broadway or Off-Broadway productions. The program's rigorous training in acting techniques, voice, and movement prepares graduates to excel on stage.

2. Directing and Artistic Leadership: Graduates may pursue careers as theatre directors or artistic directors. They can helm productions, lead creative teams, and make artistic decisions for theatre companies. This path allows them to shape the vision and artistic direction of theatrical productions.

3. Theatre Education: For those interested in education, teaching, or academia, M.F.A. graduates can become theatre educators at the high school or college level. They may teach acting, directing, or other theatre-related courses, nurturing the next generation of theatre artists.

4. Technical and Design Roles: The program also offers training in technical theatre, scenic design, lighting design, costume design, and sound design. Graduates can find opportunities as technical directors or designers, creating the visual and technical elements of theatrical productions.

5. Stage Management: Stage managers are essential to the smooth execution of theatrical productions. M.F.A. graduates can pursue careers as stage managers, overseeing all aspects of production coordination, from rehearsals to performances.

6. Arts Administration: Some graduates choose paths in arts administration, working as theatre managers, producers, or administrators for theatre companies, arts organizations, or cultural institutions. They handle budgets, marketing, fundraising, and overall management.

7. Entertainment Industry: With their advanced training in performance and production, graduates can explore opportunities in the broader entertainment industry, including film, television, and digital media. They may work as actors, directors, or behind-the-scenes professionals in these mediums.

8. Freelance and Independent Work: Many M.F.A. graduates opt for freelance or independent careers. They may take on acting or directing projects on a project-by-project basis, collaborate with other artists, or create their own theatre companies.

9. Community Engagement and Outreach: Graduates can also find fulfillment in community engagement and outreach roles. They may lead theatre workshops, organize community productions, or work with underserved populations to promote the arts.

10. Continued Professional Development: Theatre is an ever-evolving field. Graduates often engage in continuous professional development, attending workshops, seminars, and conferences to stay updated with industry trends and expand their skill set.