UT recently received national recognition for its Master of Fine Arts program in theatre.
The Hollywood Reporter ranked the program 20th among the 25 best drama schools for an acting degree.
“We are proud to be ranked among the best master’s degree in theatre programs in the country,” said Jed Diamond, associate professor of acting. “The Department of Theatre has a particular strength in the way our educational programs are so fully integrated with a professional producing company, the Clarence Brown Theatre.”
In the training studio, MFA graduate students are able to analyze and practice the elements of art and craft, and then apply this training alongside established professionals before an audience.
Notable alumni of UT’s program include How to Get Away With Murder’s Conrad Ricamora.
In addition to creating accomplished actors, the three-year program sets students up for postgraduate success by allowing them to graduate debt free. It offers its eight students per year—chosen from more than 700 that audition—a full-ride scholarship plus a living stipend.
In addition to the financial support, students in the program are presented with the opportunity to perform in up to 11 main stage productions each year at UT’s Clarence Brown Theatre. An Actor’s Equity Association membership card also awaits students at graduation.
“Our faculty are nationally distinguished and highly active in their fields, and our MFA actors and designers come from diverse backgrounds across the country and internationally,” said Diamond. “We are developing exciting initiatives in new plays and in acting for film and have truly remarkable support from our audience. We look forward to moving higher on this list in the coming years.”