西北大学

The Northwestern MFA in Acting offers comprehensive training in acting technique to advanced students while offering a historical context for the work of theatre and an understanding of the role and responsibilities of theatre artists in society. The training focuses on mastery, comprehension and practice of the craft of acting, with a focus on body awareness, theatre history and performance. Through the MFA in Acting program’s culture of evaluative critique, a dramaturgical approach to texts in preparation for rehearsal and collaborative classes, research seminars, and critical self-evaluation, students develop an ability to think critically and communicate clearly about acting as an art form.

The MFA in Acting provides students with the skills to expertly stage theatrical storytelling and be active collaborators throughout the process of theatrical production. It offers an intensive and in-depth curriculum in acting while also giving students access to Northwestern’s liberal arts environment. In addition, it also actively engages Chicago’s professional theatre community, one of the most vibrant centers for theatre-making in the world.

Career Outcomes

An MFA in Acting is a terminal degree intended to train students for successful careers in theatre, film, and television as well as teaching. As artists trained to understand the intellectual and social impact of theatre, graduates from the program will be prepared to influence and further the conversation about the field through publishing and other forms of public advocacy about theatre and the arts more broadly. Building on Northwestern’s exceptional reputation as one of the most significant producers of top-rated actors for the stage and screen through our undergraduate program, the MFA in Acting activates similar resources. These include our network of professional theatre affiliations; the support of the School of Communication’s Office for External Programs, Internships and Career Services (EPICS); and the broader suite of professional development training offered to graduate students in School of Communication and The Graduate School. Additionally, the MFA in Acting offers a suite of professional development activities that will allow students to further develop their portfolio in areas of teaching, writing and publishing, commercial work in advertising and sound media, and other potential areas of employment post-graduation.