At least 12 of these semester hours must be taken at The University of Iowa in advanced courses. Opportunities for Nonmajors Students in other majors who have an interest in the theatre arts may take courses in the department. Other courses may be open to nonmajors with consent of the instructor. The M.F.A. programs are dedicated to the creative development of theater artists. Graduates have a solid background in major performance theories, dramatic literature, and practices of the past and present as well as in the craft of their chosen specialties.
Special attention is given to understanding the role and importance of live theater in society.
Interactions among the various theater disciplines are emphasized, both in classes and through the department's extensive production program. Particular emphasis is placed on the development of new works for the theater. Submission of playscripts is the most important element in gaining admission to the Playwrights Workshop. They also must make normal progress toward completion of the degree requirements to remain in the program. Normal progress is defined as maintenance of a 3.00 grade-point average in all course work within the primary area of concentration and a record of substantial creative work of high quality.