Program Overview
Program Overview
The Acting program at the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) is a three-year Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree that offers rigorous coursework, performance experiences, and instruction from renowned faculty to help students develop the skills needed for a successful career in theater and film.
Program Details
- Program Type: Master's
- Academic Unit: Conservatory
- Degree Type: Master of Fine Arts
- Standard credit hours: 60
- Delivery Mode: In-person
- Typical Program Length: 3 years
- Typical Course Load: 5-6 per semester
Program Structure
In the first year, students focus on foundational skills like dialect work, text analysis, and physical characterization. Public performances begin in year two, along with ensemble singing, stage combat, and advanced physical techniques. In year three, students intensify their public performance work, exploring a variety of play styles and practicing voice-over and on-camera acting. The program concludes with a thesis performance and oral defense, along with an industry-standard acting showcase.
Career Opportunities
Actors and directors work in a highly competitive field with varying levels of pay. Those in the film and television industries tend to earn higher median wages, while professionals in live theater or smaller productions may face more financial challenges. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, demand for actors and directors is projected to grow at a pace comparable to the average for all occupations. Growth is driven by the continued production of content for streaming platforms and live performances, as well as the increasing diversity of media formats.
Potential Careers
- Stage actor
- Film actor
- Director
Median Salary
$51,208 per year, based on data from Lightcast.io for Actors.
Potential Courses
Master Class in Acting
This course focuses on advanced studies in acting. It may be repeated for credit up to eight hours as content and guest artists change.
Actor Practicum
In this contemporary scene study class for actors, students test their acquired process skills with a major emphasis placed on characterization.
Introduction to Professional Directing
In the first part of the class, students dive deep into a variety of concepts related to drama, exploring how dramatists, critics, and directors think about the theatrical experience.
Application Process
To apply, students must:
- Gather materials: Official transcripts, names and locations of previous colleges, citizenship, residency, and visa information (if applicable).
- Complete audition requirements: Submit a headshot, resume, and either a two-page essay or an "un-essay" addressing specific questions. Two letters of recommendation are also required.
- Complete the online application: Pay the application fee ($45 for domestic graduate students or $75 for international graduate students) and upload all application materials.
Financial Aid
UMKC offers a number of automatic and competitive scholarships, grants, and other financial aid opportunities. 80% of first-year students seeking a master's degree or graduate certificate received financial aid, while 92% of first-year students seeking a doctoral degree received financial aid. 77% of all degree- and certificate-seeking graduate students received financial aid.