Graduate School of Arts and Sciences

Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Theater Arts: Acting

*Please note that our program is not accepting applications for this cycle.*

Overview

Brandeis University's graduate program in theater arts is designed to provide the highest level of theatrical investigation and practice. With an intention to create theater artists who will shape the future of American and world theater, Brandeis theater arts is dedicated to the transmission of technique-based knowledge, as well as providing professional-level performance experiences in the various venues with the Brandeis Theater Company in the Spingold Center for the Performing Arts. Our goal is to set the stage for a theater of the future that is alive with excitement, clarity and surprise.

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How to Apply

Application Deadline

March 15

Please note that our program is not accepting applications for this cycle.

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit:

  • An online application

  • An application fee

  • Transcripts from all universities and colleges attended must be uploaded to your application; do not mail official transcripts to our office. For more information, visit Frequently Asked Questions.

  • Two letters of recommendation, submitted electronically

  • A curriculum vitae (CV) or resume

  • A statement of purpose indicating your reasons for undertaking graduate study. In addition, please describe your qualifications for the academic program and your objectives in undertaking this program.

  • Artistic resume

  • Head shot: Please mail a copy of your head shot and artistic resume directly to the Theater Arts Department prior to your audition:

    Theater Arts Department
    MS 072
    Brandeis University
    Waltham, MA 02452-9110

  • Interview and audition: After an application is submitted and all supporting credentials are received, the applicant should contact the theater program office for an appointment.

Audition Guidelines:

1. Prepare two contrasting pieces totaling not more than four minutes.
2. Select one contemporary and one classical piece, if possible.
3. Select material that you love and that speaks to your idea of theater.
4. Select material that is roughly within your own age range.
5. If you wish to sing or dance, please provide your own music or be prepared to perform a cappella. 

Additional Requirements for International Applicants: Score report from one of the following English language proficiency exams: TOEFL iBT, TOEFL Revised Paper-delivered Test, TOEFL ITP Plus for China Solution, IELTS Academic, PTE Academic, or Duolingo English Test. You can arrange for the delivery of your TOEFL iBT or Revised Paper-delivered Test score report by providing ETS with our institution code, 3261 (no department code is necessary); please note that we do not accept TOEFL Essentials score reports or MyBest™ scores from ETS. Delivery of your TOEFL ITP Plus scores can be arranged via your Vericant account, delivery of your Duolingo scores can be arranged via your Duolingo account, and delivery of your PTE Academic scores can be arranged via your Pearson account. Further information about this requirement can be found on the International Students page.

For a more comprehensive description of application requirements, please visit Frequently Asked Questions.