The Master of Fine Arts in Acting Pedagogy at The University of Alabama is designed to prepare the MFA candidate for careers in professional theatre as well as teaching at the college level.

The program includes specialized courses in both the theory and practice of:

• contemporary and period acting styles
• text analysis
• audition techniques
• voice and speech
• movement
• combat

Courses are also offered in pedagogy and the teaching of acting with opportunities for students to gain college teaching experience in such courses as acting,voice and speech, stage movement, and introduction to theatre.

The Mainstage and Studio seasons provide considerable performance opportunities for MFA candidates. Typically the Department of Theatre produces an eight show theatre season, with a varied repertory of dramatic styles represented. During the summer months, students are encouraged to strengthen their professional experience and training by seeking theatre employment and apprenticeships. The University of Alabama is an active member of the Southeastern Theatre Conference, which provides annual access to auditions for numerous summer stock theatres, outdoor dramas, dinner theatres, and Shakespeare festivals throughout the region.

Admittance and assistantships are based on auditions and interviews and acceptance into the University of Alabama's Graduate School . Students with professional experience are given preference in admittance. Auditions/Interviews are held at the Southeastern Theatre Conference annual convention AND on the UA campus through scheduled appointments.

The University of Alabama also offers a Master of Fine Arts in Professional Actor Training in conjunction with the Alabama Shakespeare Festival in Montgomery, AL. Students interested in this program must apply directly to the Alabama Shakespeare Festival. Program information and applications are available online at www.asf.net or contact Ray Chambers at  (334) 271-5350.