MFA in Theatre - Directing in Vermillion United States | University of South Dakota

As a graduate student specializing in theatre direction, you'll enroll in advanced courses covering directing techniques, performance studies, stage management, script interpretation, vocal techniques, and more, enabling you to tailor your academic path to your professional aspirations. You'll benefit from personalized mentorship, chances to direct plays during the arena season, and typically the opportunity to helm a mainstage production as your final project. All MFA directing students must serve as stage manager for two approved productions and direct three approved shows.
USD's stage directing program prepares students to become interpretive artists and educators. The curriculum emphasizes advanced text analysis, interpersonal skills, and storytelling techniques while fostering comprehensive knowledge of theatre and related arts. Alongside intensive training in acting, directing, and design, students explore historical and contemporary connections to help audiences recognize universal human experiences.
With limited enrollment, the program ensures personalized attention for each student, including directing opportunities during the arena season and usually a mainstage production as a capstone project. MFA directing candidates must complete two stage management assignments and three directing projects. The degree requires completion of 60 credit hours.