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Master of Fine Arts in Theatre (Acting)

Rigorous Training. Transformative Impact.

The Master of Fine Arts in Theatre with a specialization in Acting at the University of Florida is a rigorous, conservatory-style program for artists ready to take their work to the next level. The program blends intensive studio training with research, collaboration and professional experience across the live performance industry.

As a top-tier Research One institution, UF offers a dynamic environment for experimentation, growth and creative risk-taking. Whether your path leads to the stage, the studio, the classroom or beyond, the MFA in Theatre prepares you to thrive as a skilled and visionary artist.

Acting

The MFA in Theatre with a specialization in Acting offers immersive training in performance for stage and screen. Through relatively small cohort sizes recruited just once every three years, individualized mentorship and hands-on production experience, students develop a versatile toolkit grounded in classical and contemporary performance practices. Coursework is designed to deepen technical proficiency, creative exploration and professional readiness.

Students engage in:

  • Five semesters of acting technique, including Realism, Shakespeare, period styles, contemporary work and acting for the camera/digital media
  • Five semesters of movement training, including somatic techniques, Laban, dance fundamentals, and stage combat
  • Five semesters of voice training, including Linklater, dialects and voice-over
  • Solo work creation
  • Theatre history, literature and criticism
  • A culminating creative project (Project in Lieu of Thesis)
  • A professional internship with a regional theatre or industry partner
  • Guest artist master classes and residencies
  • Industry-facing New York and virtual showcases and guest artist residencies

Graduates emerge with strong artistic voices, practical experience and the adaptability to pursue careers in theatre, film, television or higher education.

See full details in the UF Graduate Catalog.

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