Master of Arts in Acting

Graduate students will meet the following student performance criteria:

Acting Skills

• Deliver engaging performances with the energy level appropriate for the performance medium
• Identify and play a clear objective in a scene
• Use the other person as a driving focus in a scene
• Communicate nuanced meaning in a scene
• Add believable emotional life to a scene as appropriate to the script
• Use the body as a tool to build character
• Use the lines as an effective tool for verbal and physical action

Artistic Collaboration

• Make performance choices that affect and are affected by other people in a scene
• Successfully make specific adjustments based on the direction

Professional Readiness

• Demonstrate effective audition technique
• Demonstrate professionalism and preparedness (scripts analyzed and memorized, punctuality, respect for another actor’s creative process in rehearsal, a strong work ethic, attitude, full commitment)

Academy of Art University Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the Academy of Art University will demonstrate the ability to:

• Produce a body of work suitable for seeking professional opportunities in their chosen field of art and design.
• Solve creative problems within their field of art and design, including research and synthesis of technical, aesthetic, and conceptual knowledge.
• Communicate their ideas professionally and connect with their intended audience using visual, oral, and written presentation skills relevant to their field.
• Execute technical, aesthetic, and conceptual decisions based on an understanding of art and design principles.
• Evaluate work in their field, including their own work, using professional terminology.
• Recognize the influence of major cultural and aesthetic trends, both historical and contemporary, on art and design products.
• Learn the professional skills and behaviors necessary to compete in the global marketplace for art and design.

Academy of Art University’s School of Acting is rooted in developing craft, individual processes, and truthful storytelling to prepare students for dynamic acting careers. By training well-rounded actors, we offer a unique learning environment in classes taught by working professionals. From stage to camera, voiceovers to commercials, the School of Acting is much more than a school—it’s your opportunity to bring your passion to life.

Interactive Media Performer

As a performer for interactive media, you'll learn to use physicality and performance techniques to engage a digital audience across the globe. Acting in web series or commercials, you'll learn to bring characters to life in cutting-edge interactive media

Narrator/Host

As an on-camera narrator or spokesman, you give context and life to commercials and industrials. Bring your unique presence and ability to deliver impactful and engaging messages to the commercial world.

On-Camera Actor

As an on-camera actor for feature films, television, commercials, and industries, you'll bring characters to life through technique, emotion, and presence. Use physicality, reaction, reflex, and listening skills to engage audiences and fully embody any character.

Stunt Performer

As a stunt performer, you bring excitement and tension to the screen with combat and implausible physicality. Learn about safety, weapons training, and certification with our diverse and experienced faculty.

Stage Actor

Connect your craft to performance and become a stage actor, singer, or dancer. You will use technical proficiency, script analysis, and character research to deliver engaging and emotional performances for live audiences.

Voiceover Artist

As a voiceover artist, you'll apply your acting skills to animation, video games, commercials, narration, radio, TV, and character work. Find your vocal signature, learn accents, and bring characters to life.

Unit Requirements

Degree Requirements

• Successful completion of Final Portfolio Review
• A minimum grade of C in all required 36 units
• A minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA and the following Academic Study requirements:
• 1 Cross Cultural Understanding course

Curriculum

Semester 1

• ACT 604: Movement: Physical Expression on Camera (Major)
• ACT 606: Voice & Speech 1 (Major)
• ACT 635: Acting Techniques: Meisner 1 (Major)

Semester 2

• ACT 607: Voice and Speech 2 (Major)
• ACT 637: Acting Techniques: Meisner 2 (Major)
• ACT 669: Script Analysis (Major)

Semester 3

• ACT 622: Alexander Technique 2 - Alexander Technique in Performance (Major)
• ACT 639: Acting for Performance (Major)
• ACT 650: Acting for Camera 1 (Major)

Semester 4

• ACT 670: Acting for Camera 2 (Major)
• ACT 680: Audition Techniques (Major Elective)
• ACT 710: Into the Industry (Major)