Master of Fine Arts in Scenic Design

The MFA in Scenic Design program is tailored for applicants looking to enrich their study of scenic design through dedicated research, script analysis, studio projects, and realised work both within the University setting and the industry. Within this three year program many of the traditional requirements of graduate school and the framework of academia have been eliminated. Our approach is not designed to put any given designer through a standard academic track, rather we work with the individual to craft an effective, rigorous, and unique three year artist's residency that will best serve the student within school and set them up for professional success after graduation.

This concentration includes practical training and course offerings in all traditional elements of design communication and collaboration such as digital and analog sketching, drafting, scene painting, and model work. These craft skills are seen as an essential baseline that allow designers to convey their work. In addition to these foundational skills, the majority emphasis is placed on analytical research and training as subjective artists. Work on theoretical projects is focused on, design (in multiple mediums), research, as well as script analysis and direction. These paper designs are the gateway to extensive production opportunities within the Department, Connecticut Repertory Theatre, the School of Fine Arts, and possibly at one of the region's many prestigious professional theatre venues.

The MFA Scenic Design department believes in active professional development, and strongly encourages current students to take full advantage of the opportunities to work and learn outside of the University with groups such as USITT, Prague Quadrennial, and Design Showcase East. In addition to job placements, and individual internships the Scenic Design department regularly engages in field study, including most recently: trips to Broadway, The Metropolitan Opera, Long Wharf Theatre, and Hudson Scenic Studios.

Starting December 15th – Applicants who are considering UConn's MFA in Scenic Design should send along the following: A portfolio of past work, design, drawing, sketchbooks, etc. A resume with contacts for three letters of recommendation, as well as a short written essay section (500 words) answering one of the following:

Why the University of Connecticut Scenic Design Program?

Why a life in the theatre or a career as a designer?

Portfolios should be clear and well organized, but please resist the temptation or focus on formatting, and/or ''scrapbooking''. Our interest is in your work as an artist and the portfolio is simply a means to convey that material. Digital Portfolios should be submitted via email with the subject line ''Your Name Portfolio Application'' we find a PDF or a Google Share folder works best. Hard Copy portfolios can be sent to the Dramatic Arts Main Office but can not be guaranteed return, so please do not send valuable originals.

Starting January 1 – Following portfolio review, selected applicants will be invited to interview either in person or digitally. We recommend prospective students submit their portfolio well before this time.

Mid to Late January – UConn does attend URTA and potential MFA Candidates can choose to present there, however small class size and past interest in our community makes open spots within the Scenic Design program competitive. If you intend to present at URTA but are strongly interested in UConn we encourage you to reach out to us directly in the December period. Accepted students are notified on a rolling basis as soon as is reasonably possible.

You must hold a baccalaureate degree or its equivalent from a regionally accredited college or university.
A cumulative GPA for their most recent degree of 3.0 or higher for the entire degree
Minimum overall scores of 79 (Internet-based test – iBT/ iBT Home Edition), 550 (Old Paper-based test – PBT) or 22/30 on each of the Listening, Reading, and Writing sections (''New'' Paper-based test- PBT) or higher on the TOEFL test. (TOEFL Essentials is not accepted.)
Personal Statement
A minimum overall score of 6.5 or higher on the IELTS Academic Test
A minimum overall score of 53 or higher on the PTE Test.