Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Acting
Academy of Art University
Key Information
Campus location
San Francisco, USA
Languages
English
Study format
On-Campus
Duration
6 semesters
Pace
Full time
Tuition fees
USD 1,276 *
Application deadline
Request info
Earliest start date
Jun 2024
* per unit for international students | $1,218 per unit for domestic students. Additional fees apply
Introduction
The MFA in Acting is rooted in a conservatory approach to acting. The program provides immersive training in multiple mediums preparing actors for film, television, stage, and musical theater productions. Students will hone a diverse set of professional skills in voice, speech, movement, improvisation, classical theater, and audition techniques. Students will graduate from the program equipped with an industry ready demo reel showcasing the actor’s ability to work in front of a camera with a professional crew on a sound stage. The MFA portfolio will also include a personalized marketing strategy exhibiting the actor’s preparedness to successfully compete in the entertainment industry.
Program Outcome
Graduate students will meet the following student performance criteria:
Acting
- Demonstrate skills in a variety of media: film, television, theater, voiceover, improvisation, and musical theater
- Demonstrate focus in a scene
- Develop a playable objective to use the other person as a driving focus in a scene
- Communicate nuanced meaning and depth in a scene by striking a personal connection to the meaning and stakes of a character and a script
- Establish an organic and truthful emotional life in a scene as appropriate to the script
- Bring the necessary energy to deliver dynamic performances appropriate for the performance medium
Spontaneity
- Demonstrate the ability to bring spontaneity to a scene and utilize improvisation as an integral part of the rehearsal process
Artistic Collaboration
- Make performance choices that affect and are affected by other people in a scene
- Successfully make specific adjustments based on the direction
Speech & Movement
- Demonstrate vocal range, resonance, breath control, and appropriate vocal power
- Use the body as a tool to build character
- Use the lines as an effective tool for verbal and physical action
Professional Readiness
- Complete a demo reel that showcases the student’s most dynamic and marketable material
- 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.
Career Opportunities
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.
Gallery
Curriculum
Unit Requirements
Major Coursework | 48 |
Directed Studies | 12 |
Major Elective | 3 |
Total | 63 |
Degree Requirements
- Successful completion of Final Portfolio Review
- A minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA
- A minimum grade of C in all required 63 units
Curriculum
Semester 1
- ACT 604: Movement: Physical Expression on Camera (Major)
- ACT 606: Voice & Speech 1 (Major)
- ACT 635: Acting Techniques: Meisner 1 (Major)
- ACT 650: Acting for Camera 1 (Major)
Semester 2
- ACT 607: Voice and Speech 2 (Major)
- ACT 637: Acting Techniques: Meisner 2 (Major)
- ACT 669: Script Analysis (Major)
- ACT 670: Acting for Camera 2 (Major)
Semester 3
- ACT 622: Alexander Technique 2 - Alexander Technique in Performance (Major)
- ACT 639: Acting for Performance (Major)
- ACT 690: Acting for Camera 3 (Major)
Semester 4
- ACT 645: Improv & Sketch (Major)
- ACT 750: Acting for the Camera 4 (Major)
- ACT 800: Directed Study (Directed Studies)
Semester 5
- ACT 642: Shakespeare 1 (Major)
- ACT 800: Directed Study (Directed Studies)
Semester 6
- ACT 680: Audition Techniques (Major)
- ACT 695: Collaborative Project (Major Elective)
- ACT 710: Into the Industry (Major)
- ACT 800: Directed Study (Directed Studies)
Admissions
Facilities
English Language Requirements
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