MFA in Theatre Arts - Theatre Design and Production

Entry Requirements for International Students

Application Fees : US$ 90

For international students seeking postgraduate programs at the University of Arizona, certain entry requirements must be met. 

1. Academic Requirements: International students applying for postgraduate programs at UA are required to have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 70% or above. This academic benchmark demonstrates a solid foundation and academic capability, ensuring students are prepared for the rigor of graduate studies.

2. English Language Proficiency: UA accepts several standardized English language tests as evidence of language proficiency, including:

   • IELTS (International English Language Testing System): A minimum overall band score of 7 is required to meet the language requirement.
      
   • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): A minimum score of 80 on the internet-based test (iBT) is necessary to fulfill the English language requirement.
      
   • PTE (Pearson Test of English): An overall score of 68 or higher is required.

The University of Arizona offers a range of scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international students to support their academic journey. These scholarships are designed to recognize and reward outstanding academic achievements, leadership potential, and diverse backgrounds. 

1. Global Wildcat Scholarship: The Global Wildcat Scholarship is a merit-based scholarship available to incoming international undergraduate students. It provides partial tuition waivers for up to four years of study. Selection is based on academic excellence, leadership qualities, and contributions to the community.

2. International Tuition Awards: The International Tuition Awards are merit-based scholarships offered to international undergraduate and graduate students. These awards provide partial tuition waivers and are renewable for multiple years. Eligibility is based on academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, and potential to contribute to the university community.

3. International Student Tuition Discount: The University of Arizona offers a tuition discount to international students from select countries. The discount reduces the out-of-state tuition rate to a more affordable level, making it more accessible for international students to pursue their education at the university.

4. Graduate College Fellowships: The Graduate College at the University of Arizona offers several fellowship programs for international graduate students. These fellowships provide financial support for tuition and living expenses. The eligibility criteria and award amounts vary depending on the specific fellowship program.

5. College-Specific Scholarships: Various colleges and departments within the University of Arizona offer scholarships specifically tailored to international students in their respective fields of study. These scholarships may be based on academic achievement, research interests, or professional goals. Students can inquire with their specific college or department for available scholarship opportunities.

6. External Scholarships: The University of Arizona encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities. There are numerous scholarships provided by organizations, governments, and foundations that international students can apply for. The university's scholarship office can provide guidance and resources to help students identify and apply for external scholarships.

It is important for international students to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may vary. 

Graduates of the MFA in Theatre Arts - Theatre Design and Production program at the University of Arizona have various career prospects in the professional theatre industry. 

1. Theatre Designer: Graduates can work as scenic designers, costume designers, lighting designers, or sound designers for theatre companies, opera houses, dance companies, or other performing arts organizations. They collaborate with directors, actors, and production teams to create visually compelling and immersive theatrical experiences.

2. Stage Manager: Graduates can pursue careers as stage managers, overseeing the technical and logistical aspects of theatre productions. They coordinate rehearsals, manage production schedules, communicate with the creative team and crew, and ensure smooth execution of performances.

3. Production Manager: Graduates can work as production managers, responsible for overseeing all aspects of a theatrical production, including budgeting, scheduling, resource allocation, and logistics. They ensure that productions are delivered on time and within budget, while maintaining high production values.

4. Theatre Educator: Graduates can pursue teaching positions in academic institutions, sharing their knowledge and expertise in theatre design and production with aspiring theatre artists. They can teach courses in scenic design, costume design, lighting design, or stage management at the undergraduate or graduate level.

5. Freelance Designer: Graduates may choose to work as freelance theatre designers, taking on projects with different theatre companies and organizations. This allows them to work on a variety of productions, collaborate with different creative teams, and expand their professional network.

The MFA in Theatre Arts - Theatre Design and Production program at the University of Arizona provides students with advanced training, mentorship, and practical experience in the field of theatre design and production. Through a combination of theoretical exploration, hands-on projects, and specialized training, students develop the artistic, technical, and critical skills necessary for successful careers in the professional theatre industry.