ABOUT LSU DEPARTMENT OF THEATRE AND SWINE PALACE PRODUCTIONS

LSU SCHOOL

OF THEATRE

GRADUATE

HANDBOOK

Revised, August 2023

lsu.edu/cmda/theatre

I. WELCOME ..................................................................................................................................................... 3

II. VISION AND MISSION STATEMENTS ............................................................................................................. 4

III. DEI IN THE SCHOOL ....................................................................................................................................... 7

IV. CONTACT INFORMATION .............................................................................................................................. 9

V. ACADEMICS ................................................................................................................................................ 11

VI. THEATRE PRODUCTION PROGRAM ............................................................................................................. 34

VII. FILM PRODUCTION PROGRAM ................................................................................................................... 36

VIII. REHEARSAL ................................................................................................................................................. 37

IX. FACILITIES ................................................................................................................................................... 38

X. ROOM RESERVATIONS ................................................................................................................................ 40

XI. COMMUNICATION ...................................................................................................................................... 41

XII. STUDENT COMP POLICY .............................................................................................................................. 42

XIII. PERSONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY ................................................................................................................. 44

XIV. ADDITONAL OPPORTUNITIES ...................................................................................................................... 47

XV. FUNDING SOURCES ..................................................................................................................................... 49

XVI. RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES ........................................................................................................................ 57

XVII. STUDENT BILL OF RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES ....................................................................................... 58

XVIII. ABOUT THE LSU SCHOOL OF THEATRE AND SWINE PALACE ....................................................................... 61

APPENDIX A: ADDITIONAL CAMPUS RESOURCES ................................................................................................. 66

TABLE OF CONTENTS

I. WELCOME

Welcome to the LSU School of Theatre. We look forward to facilitating your graduate education and

assisting you in your transition to the professional world.

This handbook includes resources, policies, guidelines, deadlines, and helpful hints to assist you in the

completion of your graduate degree. Additional important information is available on LSU’s Pinkie Lane

Graduate School webpage and in the LSU Graduate School Handbook.

You are responsible for the completion of your degree. Becoming thoroughly familiar with the

requirements of your degree program and the policies and procedures of the School of Theatre, Graduate

School and LSU will help ensure your success. The Graduate School website includes student resources,

required graduate school forms and important information including the graduate school calendar, thesis

and dissertation requirements and funding opportunities. It is the student’s responsibility for ensuring that

they are following all graduate school requirements and meeting the appropriate deadlines. If you have

any questions, please contact the Graduate Advisor for your specific program or the CMDA Associate

Dean of Graduate Studies.

The University and the School of Theatre reserve the right to change any provision, offering (courses or

services) or requirement at any time within the student’s period of study at LSU. All classes, policies,

procedures, and stipulations are only approved for the year of the handbook regardless of when students

enter the program. Students are required to adhere to the policies outlined in the most current School of

Theatre Handbook. Each student is personally responsible for becoming informed of any changes in the

handbook during the period of their education at LSU as well as completing all requirements established

for their degree by the University, college, and department. It is the student’s responsibility to learn these

requirements.

II. VISION AND MISSION STATEMENTS

On August 26, 1998, the Board of Regents of the State of Louisiana approved the creation of the College

of Music and Dramatic Arts, an act that merged the LSU School of Music and the Department of Theatre -

two highly visible and respected academic units on campus. In 2015 the Board of Regents approved a

change in designation from the Department of Theatre to the School of Theatre.

Vision

As Louisiana's flagship university, LSU will deploy the knowledge generated through the work of our faculty,

staff, and students to build a more healthy, prosperous, and secure future for the state.

Mission

Designated as a Land, Sea, and Space Grant institution, LSU secures, elevates, and advances Louisiana

and the world through the generation, preservation, dissemination, and application of knowledge and

cultivation of the arts and develops students who are prepared, confident, and inspired to achieve lifelong

success.

Diversity Statement

We believe diversity, equity, and inclusion enrich the educational experience of our students, faculty, and

staff, and are necessary to prepare all people to thrive personally and professionally in a global society.

Therefore, LSU is firmly committed to an environment that affords respect to all members of our community.

We will work to eliminate barriers that any members of our community experience.

To make LSU a place where that can happen, we must recognize and reflect on the inglorious aspects of

our history. We now acknowledge the need to confront the ways racism, sexism, ableism, ageism, classism,

LGBTQ+ phobia, intolerance based on religion or on national origin, and all forms of bias and exploitation

have shaped our everyday lives.

We accept personal and professional responsibility to eliminate bias and oppression wherever they are

found. We understand our obligation to speak up when we see bias whether it be in our teaching, study,

or daily work. Our community will educate themselves proactively and continuously about how to intervene

and bring bias to the attention of others with commitment and compassion.

We will hold ourselves accountable for our actions and inactions, and for maintaining intentional,

measurable, and meaningful efforts to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion, including through ongoing

evaluation of our policies, practices, and procedures.

A. LSU STATEMENTS

The LSU School of Theatre is dedicated to preparing students of all identities for professional and

academic careers in arts and cultural industries. Providing an inclusive learning environment as key to a

well-rounded humanities education, We offer a variety of degrees and concentrations that encourage

students to tailor their training to their creative and scholarly passions and intentions. Graduating students

move into careers and further educational institutions as informed and empowered artists, theorists, and

technicians; the practical skills learned apply not only to the arts but also to multiple related professions

and industries.

Accomplished professional creative practitioners from all over the world, contribute to the School’s cultural

insight and cutting-edge performance tools. Our programming commits to spotlighting topical issues,

celebrating shared social values, and exploring humanity. With diversity, equity, and inclusion among our

core values, we work to honor the experience, perspectives, and unique identities of our students, faculty,

staff, guest artists, and audience. The School also has a unique and significant place within Louisiana State

University and seeks to contribute in a visible way to the quality of life and economic growth of both the

state and the region.

The School of Theatre has identified diversity, equity, inclusion and access as core values of our school

and strive to build and sustain a community that honors the experience, perspectives, and unique identities

of our students, faculty, staff, guest artists, and audiences. We understand the intersectional nature of our

work and our world and celebrate the rich perspectives we attain in community with one another.

We work to dismantle inherited structures of systemic racism and oppression while challenging silence

and inaction which allow oppression to continue in ways that impact every facet of our operation and every

person who participates in them. We are committed to an ongoing evaluation of policies, practices,

curriculum, and culture to eliminate barriers rooted in white supremacist culture, racism, sexism, ableism,

ageism, classism, LGBTQIA+ phobia, intolerance based on religion or on national origin, and all forms of

bias.

As a land, sea, and space-grant institution, Louisiana State University and A&M College (LSU) has a

responsibility to acknowledge, honor, and affirm Indigenous culture, history, and experiences. LSU is a

community of higher learning built upon the traditional, ancestral, and contemporary lands of Indigenous

peoples. At the heart of LSU’s campus are two earthen mounds, architectural remnants created by Native

Americans and predating the pyramids in Egypt. These mounds are believed to be the oldest edifices in

B. SCHOOL OF THEATRE MISSION STATEMENT

C. SCHOOL OF THEATRE DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION STATEMENT

D. SCHOOL OF THEATRE LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

North America. Built by a people who were egalitarian fisher-hunter-gatherers, the LSU Indian Mounds

were built as a place of gathering over the course of 200 years. LSU recognizes the communities native

to this region including the Caddo Adai Indians of Louisiana, Biloxi Chitimacha Confederation, Chitimacha

Tribe of Louisiana, Choctaw Nation, Coushatta Tribe, FourWinds Cherokee Tribe, Muscogee (Creek), Point

au Chien Tribe, TunicaBiloxi Tribe, United Houma Nation, and others whose memories may have been

erased by violence, displacement, migration, and settlement. As a University, we thank them for their

strength and resilience as stewards of this land and are committed to creating and maintaining a living and

learning environment that embraces individual difference, including the Indigenous peoples of our region.

III. DEI IN THE SCHOOL

Hello and welcome from the Alliance for the Future. Our mission is to transform the School of Theatre into

an antiracist and anti-biased institution where all members of our community: students, staff, faculty, visiting

artists, and audience members of all identities are respected and accepted. To advance this mission, the

Alliance is committed to identifying racism and bias in the School of Theatre and engaging our community

in measurable action to create change. The Alliance is committed to dismantling oppression as it affects

the intersections of race, religion, sexuality, gender identity, or disability, and to replace oppressive

practices. The School of Theatre is committed to creating ongoing change in our curriculum, our rehearsal

and production processes, our classrooms, our backstage and support areas, and our offices.

With great work and dedication, we look to build spaces, both physical and virtual, that welcome our

community in all its beauty and diversity. The School of Theatre must continue to learn from mistakes

to create opportunity and access for voices of all backgrounds and lived experiences. This work begins

with the stories we tell ourselves and others. We reject the centering of White, Cis, able-

bodied, and Straight narratives which have been upheld for so long and commit to celebrating myriad

perspectives which have been so often overlooked and silenced in the past. Celebrating our richness

demands that we include stories about diverse populations as told by members of those populations. We

defy the myth of scarcity that works against the realities of our current and future abundance. We

have everything we need to transform our School and the industries it supports.

The Alliance commits to lead the School of Theatre in remaining mindful of our students’ place as soon-

to-be leaders in our field and recognizing that our values and actions affecting today reverberate into their

futures. To advance our mission of transformation, the School of Theatre, with the support of the Alliance

for the Future, commits to:

• Perform a biannual climate survey to elicit the experiences of members of our community and

assess the effectiveness of programmatic and policy shifts

• Create affinity spaces for historically marginalized groups

• Provide access to training that will minimize harm in our community as well as

foster support mechanisms to assist when harm occurs

• Develop a direct and accessible means for people to report grievances which lead to prompt

and meaningful actions to minimize future harm and work toward healing.

• Engage with alumni and take meaningful steps to repair relationships that have been damaged in

the past.

• Actively recruit BIPOC faculty, staff, and guest artists.

• Ongoing active listening, questioning, analysis and cultural course corrections to minimize trauma

and provide healthy learning environments

A. ALLIANCE FOR THE FUTURE: DISMATLING BIAS AND RACISM IN THE SCHOOL OF

THEATRE

The Alliance includes representatives from our undergraduate and graduate alumni and current students

and faculty and staff. We are structured as a non-hierarchical collective and all meetings are open to our

community. We encourage participation in whatever ways you feel comfortable. If you would like more

information please visit the Alliance for the Future home page.

Opportunities for students and alumni to self-nominate for the Alliance happen at the beginning of every

year.

The School of Theatre strives to welcome and celebrate the wholeness of its members. As a member of

our community students agree to respect the dignity of every individual.

• We will give each other grace; this is hard work and mistakes will happen

• Be accountable for the impact of your behavior.

• There is no statute of limitations for harm. Harmful behavior may be addressed at any time.

• Language matters

• Names and pronouns will be respected.

• Use inclusive language: avoid biased, discriminatory, sexist, prejudiced, racist, ableist, denigrating

terms. For examples, see the Northwestern Counseling Inclusive Language Guide

• Avoid gendered language (unless specifically told otherwise): Avoid titles (Ms., Mr., Miss, Mrs.),

avoid gendered job titles (“mail carrier” rather than “mailman”),don’t refer to groups by gender

(“boys and girls” or “ladies and gentlemen” or “hey, guys”)

B. RESPECT

IV. CONTACT INFORMATION

Eric Lau, Dean of CMDA

[email protected]

Trey Davis, Associate Dean of Graduate Studies, CMDA

cmdagradstudies@lsu.edu

Pam Pike, Associate Dean of Research, Creative Activity and Community Engagement, CMDA

[email protected]

Shannon Walsh, Associate Dean of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, CMDA

swalsh@lsu.edu

Kristin Sosnowsky, Executive Associate Dean, CMDA and Director, SOT

ksosno1@lsu.edu

Amy Smith, Assistant Dean, Office of Student Success, CMDA

asmith10@lsu.edu

Drew Alvarez, Front Office Coordinator (SOT)

drewalvarez@lsu.edu

Melissa Fay, Business Manager, School of Theatre

mfay@lsu.edu

Paloma Gonzalez, Data Coordinator, Office of Student Success (CMDA)

[email protected]

Vastine Stabler, Managing Artistic Director

stabler1@lsu.edu

Becca Wagner, SOT Recruiting Coordinator and First- Year Advisor

Rwagner1@lsu.edu

Sonya Cooke, Head of Undergraduate Performance scooke@lsu.edu

Nick Erickson. Head MFA in Acting nickwe@lsu.edu

John Fletcher, Head of Ph.D. Program jfletch@lsu.edu

Jim Murphy, Head of MFA in Technology and Design [email protected]

For a full list of School of Theatre Faculty and Staff visit the School of Theatre Faculty and Staff page.

A. ADMINISTRATION AND SCHOOL OF THEATRE OFFICE STAFF

B. SCHOOL OF THEATRE PROGRAM HEADS AND FACULTY AND STAFF

School of Theatre Main Office

105 Music and Dramatic Arts Building

Baton Rouge, LA 70803

Telephone • 225-578-4174

Web sites • LSU Theatre •

Swine Palace

Box Office • 225-578-3527

The School of Theatres maintains a webpage with quick links to Students Resources and Services.

Students can visit the Theatre Student Resources and Services webpage for general information as well

as information on academic, research, and productions.

C. MAIN OFFICE

D. STUDENT RESOURCES

V. ACADEMICS

The following are select policies excerpted from the LSU General Catalog. For complete updated

information please, refer to the catalog which is the source of all academic policies and procedures.

GRADUATE CREDIT

A student may receive graduate credit only for courses taught by members of the graduate faculty or other

persons approved in advance by the Vice Provost & Dean of the Graduate School. LSU Graduate students

enrolled in LSU advanced degree programs may not teach other LSU graduate students for graduate

credit. Except as noted, a student may receive graduate credit only for work taken while officially enrolled

as a graduate student.

At least one half of the credit hours required for a graduate or a post-baccalaureate professional degree

must be earned through instructional hours and must be at the 7000 level (thesis hours excepted) at LSU.

See also “Transfer of Credit”, below.

Any student dropped from a graduate program because of unsatisfactory performance will not be

permitted to take courses for credit toward a graduate degree beyond the semester in which the student

is dropped.

Graduate students may not take credit examinations in graduate-level courses.

Grades

Graduate Grading System

Grades in the Graduate School have the following meanings:

• Marks carrying advanced degree credit are “A,” “B,” “C” (up to, but no more than six hours); “S”

(satisfactory); and “P” (pass).

• Marks carrying no credit for advanced degrees are “D” (poor), “F” (fail), “I” (incomplete), “W”

(withdrawn), “U” (unsatisfactory), and “NC” (no credit).

• Cumulative grade point average is the average based only on graded graduate work.

• Semester grade point average is the average based on graded graduate and undergraduate work.

• For purposes of probation, continuation/dismissal, and graduation, the LSU cumulative GPA will be

used with a minimum of 3.00.

A. ACADEMIC POLICIES

• For purposes of transfer of credit, a “B-” is permitted so long as the LSU cumulative GPA is above

a 3.00.

• For use towards graduation, there is no limit on the number of courses completed with a “B-“,

though a 3.00 LSU GPA is required for graduation. There is no change to the limit of six hours with

a “C (+/-).”

Plus/Minus Grading & Regulations Applicable on a Course-By-Course Basis

All regulations applicable on a course-by-course basis and requiring a specific letter grade are interpreted

to mean a specific letter grade range. For example, if a student must achieve a C or better in one course

as a prerequisite for another course, the student must achieve a final grade in the C range (i.e. C+, C, or

C-) or better.

“I” Grade: An “I” grade indicates that course performance was satisfactory, but because of circumstances

beyond the student’s control, all requirements were not met. Authorization from the Vice Provost & Dean

of the Graduate School is not required to assign an “I” grade to a graduate student.

An “I” grade should never be given to enable a student to do additional work to bring up a deficient grade.

A task should not be assigned to a class that will take longer than a semester to complete, thus causing

everyone in the class to get an “I” grade. An “I” grade may not be given for a course taken in the semester

in which the student graduates if that course is listed on the application for degree or if changing the “I”

grade to an “F” would result in the student’s LSU cumulative average being less than 3.00. An “I” grade

should never be assigned for thesis/dissertation research. “S” (satisfactory) and “U” (unsatisfactory) grades

are given for thesis (8000) and dissertation (9000) research courses up to and including the semester the

student graduates.

An “I” grade is valid only until the final day of classes in the next regular semester (fall or spring), whether

or not the student is enrolled. For online degree programs, the “I” grade is valid until the final day of classes

within the following online term. For on campus degree programs, “I” grades received in the spring

semester or the summer term are valid until the end of classes in the fall semester. “I” grades received in

the fall semester are valid until the final day of classes in the spring semester. For online degree programs,

an “I” grade received during the First Spring term is valid until the final day of classes in the Second Spring

term. There will be no extension of time. The responsibility for changing an “I” grade rests both with the

student and the faculty member concerned. If a faculty member does not submit a “Grade Correction

Report” to change, the “I” grade by the final day of class for the next regular semester, the “I” grade will

become a permanent “F” grade.

Highly unusual circumstances that preclude a student from completion of course requirements may—at

the discretion of the Vice Provost & Dean of the Graduate School —permit assignment of a permanent “I”

grade. Such unusual circumstances might include, but would not be limited to, withdrawal of the student

from the university because of prolonged medical problems, or death or resignation of the faculty member

concerned, and the absence of another faculty member to supervise the unfinished work. The student

must initiate the petition for a permanent “I” grade. This petition must be accompanied by a letter of

justification from the faculty member concerned, if possible. The petition must also be endorsed by the

chair of the student’s department before it is submitted to the Vice Provost & Dean of the Graduate School.

Unusual circumstances might include, but would not be limited to, withdrawal of the student from the

university because of prolonged medical problems, or death or resignation of the faculty member

concerned, and the absence of another faculty member to supervise the unfinished work. The student

must initiate the petition for a permanent “I” grade. This petition must be accompanied by a letter of

justification from the faculty member concerned, if possible. The petition must also be endorsed by the

chair of the student’s department before it is submitted to the Vice Provost & Dean of the Graduate School.

“W” grade: A “W” grade indicates that a course has been dropped between the dates specified on the

academic calendar. In extraordinary cases, the Vice Provost & Dean of the Graduate School may authorize

a resignation and/or course drop after the last date specified.

The policies and procedures of the university governing grade appeals are described in the section

concerning university Academic Regulations.

Pass-Fail Option

With approval of the student’s major professor, department chair, instructor of the course involved, and the

Vice Provost & Dean of the Graduate School, a graduate student may register on a pass-fail basis for

courses not included in the major or minor requirements. The deadline for changing from pass-fail grading

to letter grading, or vice versa, is the last day for adding courses for credit.

If the student’s major department agrees, graduate courses passed with a grade of “P” may be offered for

degree credit, but the grade will not be considered in computing the grade point average. For graduate-

credit courses, a grade of “P” will be assigned only if the work is of at least “B-” quality. A grade of “F” in a

pass-fail course will be treated as any other “F.” Some departments have designated certain research and

seminar courses to be taught on a pass-fail basis. All students enrolled in these courses will be graded in

this manner.

Grade Requirements

Good Standing: Graduate students are considered to be in good academic standing, (making satisfactory

academic progress), if they maintain a 3.00 LSU cumulative grade point average on all graduate

coursework taken within the university (all LSU campuses) and a 3.00 semester average on all coursework

(undergraduate and graduate), and earn a grade of “S” in research.

Students who are not in good academic standing may not take any graduate milestone exams. Milestone

exams are defined by the Graduate School as the General Defense, Final Doctoral Defense, Master’s

Thesis Defense, and the Master’s Non-Thesis Defense. This rule does not apply to departmental exams

unless stipulated by the department.

Probation and Dismissal: A student whose semester and/or cumulative LSU average is below 3.00 will be

placed on probation, except that a student whose cumulative average is as low as 2.75 may be dropped

from the Graduate School without having a probationary period. For these purposes, a summer term is

counted the same as a regular semester. A student already on probation whose LSU cumulative average

is below 3.00 will be dropped from the Graduate School. A student receiving a “U” grade in research will

be placed on probation. A student receiving a second “U” in research is normally dropped from the

Graduate School. Rules governing students admitted on probation are provided in “Admission to

Graduate Study” in this chapter. The grades recorded determine the student’s academic status, even if

the student changes to a different graduate degree program.

Students who have been dropped from a graduate degree program and are ineligible to continue in the

Graduate School may not reapply as non-degree students.

Applicants admitted on probation and students placed on probation may not be appointed to a graduate

assistantship. Refer to PS-21 for further details concerning assistantships and students on probation.

Academic Dishonesty: Academic integrity and honesty must be fundamental qualities of any graduate

student’s program, and a graduate student’s conduct must be above reproach. Academic dishonesty

undermines the entire academic enterprise. As a result, it cannot and will not be tolerated. It is the

responsibility of all students to familiarize themselves with the Code of Student Conduct and other

university rules and regulations governing student conduct and activities.

The Office of the Vice President for Student Life has administrative responsibility for coordinating all

university disciplinary procedures and practices.

Graduation: To receive a graduate degree, students must be enrolled for the semester and have at least

a 3.00 LSU cumulative average on all graduate coursework taken that is applicable to the degree program

and on all graduate coursework taken while registered in the Graduate School. “S” and “P” grades are not

considered in determining whether this minimum level of performance has been achieved. A maximum of

six credit hours of coursework with a grade in the “C” range (C+ to C-) may be counted toward degree

requirements.

GRADUATE REGISTRATION

Specific registration dates for each semester or summer term are listed on the academic calendar.

Registration procedures are published in the semester schedule of classes at the website of the University

Registrar.

“Degree Only” Registration

“Degree Only” registration is only allowed for students who have met all degree requirements in the

previous semester: Final Defense reports have been received by the Graduate School and approval of all

format corrections requested by the thesis/dissertation editor by close of business on the last date to add

classes for the semester. Non-thesis students may also register “Degree Only,” provided all degree

requirements are met in a previous semester and Final Defense reports have been received by the

Graduate School. Degree Only registration is reserved for Master’s and Doctoral students and cannot be

used by students seeking a Certificate only. Students in LSU Online degree programs may not register for

Degree Only. All fees for Degree Only registration must be completed by close of business on the last

date to add classes for the semester of graduation.

Registration of Candidates for Degrees

Students expecting to receive their degrees in the current semester must be registered for coursework,

at least one hour, if in a non-thesis degree program or one hour of thesis research, if writing a thesis and

three hours of dissertation research hours, if writing a dissertation unless they qualify to be registered

“Degree Only” (see “Degree Only” Registration”). Eligible students must submit an “Application for Degree”

by the published semester deadline.

COURSE LOADS

Any graduate student who is utilizing university facilities and/or faculty time must register for an appropriate

course load. Graduate students engaged in writing or defending theses or dissertations are expected to

library facilities, and/or office space) to be utilized that semester. There is a continuous registration

requirement for doctoral students who have passed the General Defense (see section on Continuous

Registration Requirement).

Full-Time Study in Graduate School

In order to be classified as a graduate student and to be considered full-time, students must maintain

registration in a minimum of 9 semester hours in the fall or spring semester (with a minimum of six hours

for graduate credit coursework), or a minimum of 6 semester hours in a summer term or online module (a

minimum of 3 hours for graduate credit coursework). At least one half of the registered credit for part-time

graduate students must be in graduate credit coursework.

Graduate students may, with prior written approval of the Vice Provost & Dean of the Graduate School,

receive credit for work taken concurrently at another university. For example, LSU has a cooperative

registration program with Southern University and some cooperative graduate programs with other

universities in Louisiana.

Course Loads of Graduate Assistants

Graduate students holding graduate assistantship appointments must meet certain minimum registration

requirements. Such students are expected to register for a full load—nine hours in the spring and fall, at

least six of which must be at the graduate level, and six hours in the summer, at least three of which must

be at the graduate level—each semester until all degree requirements are completed.

Course Loads of Graduate Students taking Examinations or doing a Defense

Students must be registered for a minimum of one to three semester hours of credit during any semester

in which they are taking the master’s Final Defense or Doctoral General Defense, or Final Doctoral Defense,

including the qualifying examinations required by some departments. Masters students who are taking

their Master’s Thesis Defense must register for one or more thesis credit hours. Students who are non-

thesis and taking a Final Defense must be enrolled in at least one credit hour. Doctoral students who have

completed the General Defense should see ”Continuous Registration Requirement” under

“Requirements for Advanced Degrees” in this chapter.

ADDING OR DROPPING COURSES

A course may be added or dropped only in accordance with the dates indicated on the academic calendar.

During the drop/add period, the student will initiate the action using the myLSU online registration system.

A change from credit to audit is treated as a drop and add action, but it must be approved by the Graduate

School by the published deadline. See “Auditing Courses” below for additional information about auditing

courses.

AUDITING COURSES

Regularly enrolled graduate students may audit courses with the consent of individual instructors. Auditors

will not receive degree credit for courses audited, nor will they later be permitted to take a credit

examination on work audited. However, courses previously audited may be taken for credit later. Audited

courses do not count in total course loads and are not recorded on official transcripts. Request to audit

courses must be submitted on or before the last day to add courses for credit.

CHANGING DEGREE PROGRAMS

A student in one degree program who wishes to change to another degree program, or a student who

completes one degree and wishes to pursue another degree, must obtain approval of the current

department, new department, and the Graduate School. A “Request for Change of Department” form may

be obtained from the Graduate School website.

Students wishing to pursue a different degree in the same department must obtain approval from the

department. The department must notify the Graduate School in writing of such a change.

Requests must be submitted during a regular semester or summer term (not between semesters) in order

to be effective for the next semester of enrollment. Only one request for Change of Degree Program will

be processed per semester.

RESIGNATION FROM THE UNIVERSITY

Dropping an entire course load constitutes resignation from the university for that semester. A graduate

student who wishes to resign must first secure approval of the Vice Provost & Dean of the Graduate

School. A resignation form must be completed within 10 days of the date approved by the dean, and in no

case later than the date shown on the academic calendar as the final date for resigning from the university.

Completion of resignation involves clearance through certain administrative divisions of the university, as

shown on the resignation form provided by the Graduate School. A student who abandons courses without

resigning will receive a grade of “F” in each course.

ACADEMIC RENEWAL

Students who have been dropped from LSU because of a graduate-level GPA of less than 3.0, and who

have then not attended LSU for a period of at least two consecutive calendar years may declare academic

renewal and apply for re-admission to the university. Under this policy, all graduate-level work taken at an

earlier date is eliminated from computation of the grade point average and cannot be applied toward a

degree at LSU. Such work will remain on the student’s scholastic records and transcripts, and can be

considered by the department in the re-admission process, but will not be used in the computation of the

graduate grade point average.

Students qualifying for academic renewal who are recommended for admission by their academic

department will be admitted on academic probation.

APPEALS

Information on grade and other appeals may be found in the LSU General Catalog.

Students must meet all degree requirements as stated in the LSU General Catalog.

Disability Services: LSU Office of Disability Services provides appropriate auxiliary aids and services to

students with disabilities to ensure they receive full participation in all activities, programs and services at

the university. Any student with a documented learning, physical, psychological, or other disability that

significantly impacts academic pursuits is potentially eligible to receive accommodations. Incoming

students should register with LSU Disability Services at Spring Invitational, Freshman and Transfer

Orientation. Continuing students should register at the beginning of their enrollment at LSU or as soon as

they are able to post-diagnosis. Accommodations are determined by LSU Office of Disability Services

and it is the responsibility of the student to provide accommodation information to professors. The guide

for accommodations can be found at the LSU Office of Disability Services webpage.

Important Academic Dates

Students are advised to check the Academic Calendar each semester for current information on the

following important academic dates:

• First day of Classes

• Last day for dropping classes without receiving a “W”

• Last day to add courses or make a section change

• Last day to invoke the Grade Exclusion Policy

• Course scheduling for the following semester

• Last day to drop classes or resign from the University

• Final date to request rescheduling a final exam when three exams are scheduled in 24 hours

• Last day of classes

• University Holidays

The Final Exam Schedule if available on the Office of the Registrar website.

The School of Theatre offers the following graduate degree program:

Ph.D. in Theatre degree with a concentration in Theatre History, Dramatic Literature, Theory and

Criticism.

Master of Fine Arts degree with the following specializations:

• Acting

• Scenic Technology and Design

• Costume Technology and Design

• Properties Design and Technology

For additional information on graduate study at LSU, please visit the LSU Graduate School website.

The Ph.D. in Theatre curriculum provides students with a broad knowledge of theatre historiography,

theory, literature, and criticism. In addition, students pursue a minor area of study in a field outside

theatre, such as Women’s and Gender Studies, Performance Studies, History, Anthropology, and

English.

The PhD faculty in Theatre at LSU are committed to providing students with the necessary tools to

compete in a rapidly diversifying job market. We focus on honing students’ skills in writing rigorous

scholarship, teaching a broad range of theatre classes, and enhancing production experience,

especially in the areas of dramaturgy and directing. Our students become nimble and adaptive

teachers and scholars, able to occupy positions in professional and/or academic theatre.

Our faculty balances our program’s generalist foundation with particular expertise in gender and

queer studies, critical race theory, African and African diasporic studies, political and social change

performance, and sports history. We mentor students as teaching assistants and instructors for

classes from Introduction to Theatre, Theatre History, Acting, Directing, and the option to teach

B. DEGREE PROGRAMS

C. PH.D. IN THEATRE

Special Topics courses of the student’s choosing in their third or fourth year. We encourage PhD

students to participate in productions as actors, directors, playwrights, designers, and/or dramaturgs.

Our program is tailored to suit the needs and goals of each student. Once students choose a major advisor

at the end of coursework, they work with that faculty member to ensure they spend the remainder of their

time acquiring the necessary experience to prepare them for the position they seek whether inside or

outside academia. Our students’ dissertations are similarly crafted towards the audience that student

hopes to go on to work with whether academic or professional, or both. Our students go on to become

professors at research one and liberal arts institutions, professors at community colleges, teachers in public

and private high schools, and dramaturgs and literary managers at professional theatres.

Application Process

Admission Requirements (see Graduate School Catalog for full details)

• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited U.S. Institution or the equivalent from a foreign institution.

A master’s degree is strongly encouraged, but on occasion the School will accept exceptional

students with only a bachelor’s degree. (Note that students entering without master’s degrees

must take 30 additional graduate credit hours before advancing to general exams and dissertation

writing.)

• A GPA of at least 3.00 (A=4.00) on all undergraduate work (or at least half-degree requirement)

and a 3.00 GPA or better on any graduate work already completed; international applicants must

have at least a 3.00 GPA, or equivalent, on all college-level work previously attempted

Application Deadline

• Deadline for Application Materials is January 15

• Apply Online at the LSU Office of Graduate Admissions

What's Needed To Apply

• Online application and $50 application fee

• Official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate (if attended) institutions attended

• Statement of research interests (1 page)

• CV or Resume

• One sample of scholarly writing (e.g., a thesis chapter, a research paper, an article)

• Three letters of recommendation

We strive to offer admitted students a teaching assistantship, which includes a competitive stipend, tuition

waiver, health benefits and a 20 hour a week work assignment. We offer TAships for five years of study.

The School of Theatre does not offer fellowships.

Program of Study

The PhD in Theatre at LSU is designed as a four-year program. Reading knowledge in a foreign language

is required. Students achieve candidacy upon completion of general exams and prospectus, usually in the

spring of their third year.

• Minimum of 81 credit hours past the B.A. (excluding a minimum of 9 dissertation hours); an M.A. or

M.F.A. can count for up to 30 hours

• 9-12 credit hours in minor

• 3 credit hours outside of major and minor (7000) level

• 3 credit hours in THTR 7926 or other non-Western theatre, art or culture

• 3 credit hours in THTR 7900, Introduction to Graduate Studies

• 6 credit hours in theory sequence (THTR 7924 and THTR 7925)

• 15 hours in literature and history (THTR 7901, THTR 7902, THTR 7903, THTR 7904, THTR 7912,

THTR 7913, THTR 7914)

• 3 credit hours in THTR 7920, Black Drama of the Diaspora

• 3 credit hours in THTR 7923 or other Women’s and Gender Studies course

• 3 credit hours of Electives

• 3 credit hours in a pedagogy-focused course

• 9 credit hours for dissertation (THTR 9000)

All courses should be taken on the 7000 level. On occasion, exceptions can be made by graduate advisor.

Should you take a 4000-level course, the instructor must have graduate faculty status.

Progression Toward Degree

Annual Reviews

During orientation week every fall, all in-residence PhD students are required to meet with the PhD

faculty to review the milestones from the previous academic year, and set goals for the upcoming

academic year in order to ensure timely progression of all students toward their degree.

Committee Selection

By the conclusion of the student’s required coursework, students should select a major advisor and

minor professor in order to begin preparing for the general exam process.

General Exams

General exams should be taken in the spring semester of the third year.

• Sit-down exams given in 2nd week of classes, followed by oral defense of answers with Ph.D.

faculty. Note: failure requires retaking the exams after a 4-week break

• The portfolio should be completed by 6th week of classes and submitted to the Ph.D. faculty via

email.

• The take-home essay should be completed by 8th week. Normally, this is a research question

arranged by the student’s major advisor by the 6th week and answered by the student in the form

of a 15-page response, complete with bibliography. Ideally, the essay assists the student in

constructing a dissertation prospectus. The major advisor approves this essay.

• The prospectus defense with the student’s dissertation committee (i.e., major professor, minor

professor, at least one other Theatre professor, and the dean’s representative) should occur by

the 14th week. A General Exam Defense form must be filed with the Graduate School at least

three weeks prior to the defense date. The prospectus itself must be circulated to the committee

at least two weeks prior to the defense.

• All degree requirements, save for defending the dissertation, need to be satisfied before the start

of the 4th year in order to receive 4th year of funding (or 5th year for MA/PhDs).

For Graduate School requirements related to the Ph.D., please visit the Requirements for the Doctor of

Philosophy Degree section of the Graduate School Catalog.

For more information on the Ph.D. Program contact Head of the Ph.D. program, Dr. John Fletcher.

The LSU MFA in Acting Program provides rigorous physical, vocal, emotional, and critical actor training

approaches. The M.F.A. acting students are the primary acting pool for the LSU Equity resident theatre

company, Swine Palace. To promote holistic actors, candidates create and perform a 20-minute solo work

of theatre as their thesis, concluding with an oral presentation on the creative process. A traditional written

thesis option is also available.

The program comprises six consecutive semesters of training for the professional actor. The program

recruits a new cohort every two years.

The training offers daily practice and seeks to develop the actor’s body, voice, imagination, and critical

thinking, all of which enables actors to live truthfully and playfully within given circumstances. Actors are

encouraged to free themselves from unnecessary tensions and to be responsive to the full range of

internal and external impulses for action with boldness and courage.

The program provides in-depth actor training in contemporary and classic texts with a focus in both theatre

and film. The LSU School of Theatre is the central home of Seven Pillars Acting, a modern and

comprehensive acting technique based in Meisner and Stanislavski teachings. M.F.A. acting students study

Seven Pillars Acting in their first year and progress in their second year to focus on application skills, style,

and heightened text. Graduate students may have the opportunity to earn a Seven Pillars Acting Teaching

Certification.

Movement instruction is informed by techniques such as T’ai Chi, Alexander Technique, Laban, neutral

mask work, stage combat, fitness training, contact improv, Viewpoints, and dance. For those interested in

a unique physical specialization, the program offers aerial silk courses and workshops. Voice instruction is

D. MFA IN THEATRE, ACTING

informed by techniques such as Knight-Thompson Speechwork, Fitzmaurice Voicework, Estill Voice

Training, and classical rhetoric. Students who have an interest in voice and accent coaching often have

the opportunity to serve in productions as a vocal coach or as an assistant.

Acceptance into the MFA Acting Program is strongly encouraged before any formal application to the LSU

Graduate School.

This program distinguishes itself with several features:

• Accelerated Program Geared Toward Professional Actors: The LSU MFA Acting Program

provides an accelerated, two-year training program designed for professional actors who generally

have two to four years of professional experience after earning their undergraduate degree.

• Assistantships and Tuition Waiver: The program offers assistantships of $30,667 annually, along

with a tuition waiver. Required fees and medical insurance still apply. Graduate students on

assistantship become half-time employees of the university, working 20 hours per week, often in

a combination of teaching, production, and administrative duties. At specific points in the term,

graduate students may be required to accomplish their assistantship hours in addition to

rehearsing and performing in productions and completing their academic coursework. Candidates

become eligible to teach an undergraduate course after they have earned 18 hours of graduate

credits.

• Professional Equity Resident Theatre, the Swine Palace: The M.F.A. cohort is eligible for

competitive casting in all Swine Palace productions. There is no guaranteed casting. All roles are

earned. All roles are earned through a professional audition and callback process.

• International Diversity: The acting program is committed to recruiting students locally, nationally,

and internationally to promote global citizenship and diversity in casting. Graduates include

students from Taiwan, India, Uganda, Kazakhstan, Brazil and others.

• Louisiana Film Industry: Louisiana is one of the top states for film production in the nation.

Professionals who are active in the Louisiana film industry often teach on-camera acting courses.

Louisiana is a “right-to-work” state, so actors may work in professional film and television without

joining the Screen Actors Guild (SAG). Alumni of our program who have taken advantage of the

local industry are Joe Chrest, Donald Watkins, Yohance Miles, Jenny Ballard, Jason Bayle, among

many others.

• Influential Guest Artists: Students are provided with multiple opportunities to work alongside

professional theatre artists and scholars with international reputations of excellence. In the last

decade, guest artists have included Tectonic Theatre, Robert Wilson, Anne Bogart, Ping Chong,

and Adam Rapp.

• Professional Reentry Focus: In the last semester, the emphasis is on retooling photo/resumes, an

actor’s reel, auditioning, and other strategies for entering a new market upon graduation.

Historically, alumni widely relocate to Atlanta, Chicago, New York, Seattle, Minneapolis, Los

Angeles, New Orleans, and others.

Program Guiding Principles

The following are the guiding principles for the LSU MFA Acting Program:

• Simplicity: Strive to do one thing at a time. Be direct and concise in communication. Search for a

single path within complex options, for every moment of work and life.

• Authenticity: Strive to be genuine. Find comfort and confidence in being true to yourself. Present

yourself openly and truthfully to others. Actively revise and define the values which best reflect

your identity and beliefs.

• Humanity: Strive to be kind, gracious, and accommodating. Be slow to judge and quick to forgive.

Strive to find perspective and humor. Strive to take your work seriously, but do not take yourself

too seriously.

• Autonomy: Strive to be independent. Solve problems on your own before seeking help. Cultivate

self-discipline to set and meet personal goals.

• Mastery: Strive for a command of acting technique and its foundational knowledge. Regularly work

on self-improvement with focus and enthusiasm. Know that risk-taking and failure make you

stronger. Building on your weaknesses yields more significant benefits than repeating our

strengths.

• Purpose: Strive for an exact reason for your work—a determination, a resoluteness to define the

subject at hand, the point at issue. As an artist, what is your goal: personal, social, political,

philosophical, etc.?

• Courage: Strive to stay strong, resolute, and determined in the face of fear and the unknown. Dive

deep into your heart and imagination. Speak up and claim your rights. Know that the cost of

personal freedom is sometimes a respectful confrontation. Stand up for what you believe.

Casting

The LSU School of Theatre endeavors to provide all students, both graduate and undergraduate, with

multiple potential casting opportunities in both theatre and film throughout each school year. Graduate

students are a primary source of casting for our professional theatre, Swine Palace, and the School of

Theatre attempts to secure at least one theatrical or film casting opportunity for every graduate student

each academic year. Nevertheless, all casting is competitive; it is conducted on a show-by-show basis

without guarantees. All graduate students are required to audition for each Swine Palace production, but

graduate students should see School of Theatre casting as a potential opportunity, not an expectation.

Application Process

Applicants are admitted into the program only through an audition and interview with the program heads.

One can audition and interview through the University/Resident Theatre Association (URTA) auditions in

or by direct submission. Offers to selected applicants will begin February or earlier if a non-URTA

applicant.

If you wish to apply directly to the MFA program rather than attend URTA, please contact Nick Erickson,

the program head, and send the following:

• professional actor headshot

• acting resumé

• statement of purpose detailing why you are pursuing graduate training at LSU

• three letters of recommendation

• A link to a YouTube audition video no longer than 3 minutes. Please perform a minimum of two

contrasting monologues of one minute each. After your pieces, take some time to speak about

your career goals and how LSU is key to your plans.

Please submit all of the materials listed above as a single digital file, PDF, or printed materials via regular

mail. If you are a non-URTA applicant, please submit by January 1st, to be considered for the next cohort.

Once we receive all applications, we will invite select applicants to an initial interview/audition online. We

will conduct a final callback online for all shortlisted applicants in February. Offers soon to follow.

Once accepted into the LSU MFA Acting Program through the audition/interview process, students must

then apply to the LSU Graduate School. The GRE is not required. Official transcripts verifying an accredited

undergraduate degree will be required before formal acceptance.

Any further inquiries about the program can be sent to:

Nick Erickson

Head, MFA Acting Program

School of Theatre

Louisiana State University

105 Music and Dramatic Arts Building

Baton Rouge, LA 70803

Program of Study Requirements

Two consecutive years of residency , summers included

Total credit hours 77

71 graduate credit hours

Six credit hours in THTR 8000 (thesis research)

Solo work and oral defense, written thesis option

Program of Study

Sample Curriculum

Year One

Fall

THTR 7000 Daily Practice 1

THTR 7002 Dance for Actors 1

THTR 7001 Pedagogy 1

THTR 7220 MFA Acting Studio I 3

THTR 7227 MFA Voice Studio I 3

THTR 7233 MFA Movement Studio I 3

THTR 7130 Script Analysis and Dramaturgy 3

THTR 7930 Theatre Production (Performance) 3

Spring

THTR 7000 Daily Practice 1

THTR 7002 Dance for Actors 1

THTR 7221 MFA Acting Studio II 3

THTR 7228 MFA Voice Studio II 3

THTR 7234 MFA Movement Studio II 3

THTR 7922 Seminar: Performance Theories and Criticism 3

THTR 7930 Theatre Production (Performance) 1

THTR 8000 Thesis Research 1

Summer

THTR 7001 Independent Projects in Perf Training (Alexander Technique) 1

THTR 7222 Acting Studio III 3

THTR 7229 Voice Studio III 3

THTR 7930 Theatre Production (Performance & Workshops) 2

THTR 8000 Thesis Research 1

Year Two

Fall

THTR 7000 Daily Practice 1

THTR 7002 Dance for Actors 1

THTR 7008 Drama Writing (optional) 3

THTR 7223 MFA Acting Studio IV 3

THTR 7230 MFA Voice Studio IV 3

THTR 7235 MFA Movement Studio III 3

THTR 7930 Theatre Production (Performance) 1

THTR 8000 Thesis Research 1

Spring

THTR 7002 Dance for Actors 1

THTR 7226 Camera Studio I 3

THTR 7230 MFA Voice Studio IV 3

THTR 7236 MFA Movement Studio IV 3

THTR 7930 Theatre Production (Performance) 1

THTR 8000 Thesis Research (Self-created Solo Performances) 2

Summer

THTR 7224 Acting Studio V (Preparing for the Profession) 3

THTR 7237 Movement Studio V (Stage Combat) 3

THTR 8000 Thesis Research 1

Final Project

To promote holistic actors, candidates create and perform a 20-minute solo work of theatre as their thesis,

concluding with an oral presentation on the creative process. A traditional written thesis option is also

available.

LSU’s MFA in Theatre: Specialization in Costume Technology and Design provides a solid foundation

of costume construction techniques, design, rendering, and management skills. Classroom instruction is

complimented by hands-on experience in a variety of areas including draping, flat patterning, millinery,

crafts, tailoring, etc. All students will undertake production positions on LSU Mainstage and Swine Palace

productions. Teaching, Design and Shop Manager opportunities are available to the qualified student.

Application Process

Potential applicants should express interest by contacting the program Head prior to completing the

Graduate School’s online application. Applicants must meet the requirements for admission to the

Graduate School at LSU. In addition to the Graduate School’s on-line application, all applicants must submit

a letter of intent, resume, three letters of recommendation, and representative portfolio on CD or online

website. An on-site interview is required of all applicants.

All applicants will be evaluated based on evidence of academic and practical achievement as well as

artistic promise, as indicated by grade point average, portfolio review, letters of recommendation, and,

where applicable, TOEFL scores. For more information, please visit LSU’s Pinkie Gordon Lane Graduate

School.

Any further inquiries about the program can be sent to:

James L. Murphy

Head, MFA Technology/Design Program

School of Theatre

Louisiana State University

105 Music and Dramatic Arts Building

Baton Rouge, LA 70803

225-578-3543

E. MFA IN THEATRE, COSTUME TECHNOLOGY AND DESIGN

Program of Study Requirements

Three consecutive years of residency

Total credit hours 72

66 graduate credit hours

Six credit hours in THTR 8000 (thesis research)

Written thesis including oral defense of work

Sample Curriculum

Year 1

Fall

THTR 7130 Script Analysis & Dramaturgy 3

THTR 7521 Costume Design I 4

THTR 7524 Advanced Costume Tech. I: Draping/Patterning 3

THTR 7930 Theatre Production 2

Spring

THTR 7615 Production Planning 3

THTR 7431 Rendering for the Theatre 3

THTR 7441 Computer Techniques in Theatre 3

THTR 7525 Advanced Costume Tech. II: Tailoring 3

THTR 7930 Theatre Production 2

Jury/Portfolio Review

Year 2

Fall

THTR 7522 Costume Design II 4

THTR 7526 Advanced Costume Tech. III: Painting and Dyeing 3

THTR 4132 Advanced Stage Makeup 3

THTR 7930 Theatre Production 2

Spring

THTR 7523 Costume Design III 4

THTR 7527 Advanced Costume Technology IV: Millinery 3

THTR 7436 Period Styles and Costumes 3

THTR 7930 Theatre Production 2

Jury/Portfolio Review

Year 3

Fall

THTR 4124 Scene Design 3

THTR 7929 Independent Research 3

THTR 7930 Theatre Production 2

THTR 8000 Thesis Research 3

Portfolio Review

Spring

THTR 4435 Advanced Scene Painting 3

THTR 7929 Independent Research 3

THTR 7930 Theatre Production 2

THTR 8000 Thesis Research 3

Final Project

Each student in the M.F.A. Costume Technology and Design program is required to submit a formal thesis

based on research of a topic relating to the area or the completion of a major position on a Swine Palace

or LSU Theatre Mainstage production. While working on the thesis, the student will be supervised by a

faculty advisor. At least six hours of thesis credit are required. Final acceptance of the Master’s Thesis

rests with a committee of three or more members of the graduate faculty nominated by the Department

Chair and appointed by the Dean of the Graduate School. Additional information on the graduate thesis

is available in the Graduate School Catalog.

The LSU School of Theatre is proud to be one of the few departments in the country to offer the MFA in

Properties Design and Technology.

The course of study includes a detailed examination of the many and varied items considered properties,

and different techniques and materials that can be used to create them. The intention of this course of

study is to develop advanced skills in woodworking, metalworking, paper-mâché, mold making & casting,

foam carving, upholstery, sewing, and management. The curriculum is augmented with classes in scenic

and costume design, painting for the theatre, CAD, and dramaturgy. All students will undertake production

positions on LSU Mainstage and Swine Palace productions. Teaching, Design and management

opportunities exist for the qualified student.

Application Process

Potential applicants should express interest by contacting the program Head prior to completing the

Graduate School’s online application. Applicants must meet the requirements for admission to the

F. MFA IN THEATRE PROPERTIES TECHNOLOGY AND DESIGN

Graduate School at LSU. In addition to the Graduate School’s on-line application, all applicants must

submit a letter of intent, resume, three letters of recommendation, and representative portfolio on CD or

online website. An on-site interview is required of all applicants.

All applicants will be evaluated based on evidence of academic and practical achievement as well as

artistic promise, as indicated by grade point average, portfolio review, letters of recommendation, and,

where applicable, TOEFL scores. For more information, please visit LSU’s Pinkie Gordon Lane Graduate

School.

Any further inquiries about the program can be sent to:

James L. Murphy

Head, MFA Technology/Design Program

School of Theatre

Louisiana State University

105 Music and Dramatic Arts Building

Baton Rouge, LA 70803

225-578-3543

Program of Study Requirements

Three consecutive years of residency

Total credit hours 72

66 graduate credit hours

Six credit hours in THTR 8000 (thesis research)

Written thesis including oral defense of work

Sample Curriculum

Year 1

Fall

THTR 7130 Script Analysis & Dramaturgy 3

THTR 7801 Properties I 3

THTR 7421 Advanced Scene Design I 3

THTR 7601 Scene Shop Technologies and Theatre Safety I: Woodworking 3

THTR 7930 Theatre Production 1

Spring

THTR 7821 Furniture and Woodworking I 3

THTR 7602 Scene Shop Technologies and Theatre Safety II: Metalworking 3

THTR 4831 CAD Drafting for the Theatre 3

THTR 4435 Advanced Scene Painting 3

THTR 7930 Theatre Production 2

Jury/Portfolio Review

Year 2

Fall

THTR 7802 Properties II 3

THTR 7422 Advanced Scene Design II 4

THTR 7441 Computer Techniques in Theatre 3

THTR 7930 Theatre Production 2

Spring

THTR 7822 Furniture and Woodworking II 3

THTR 7436 Period Styles and Costumes 3

THTR 7615 Production Planning 3

THTR 7930 Theatre Production 2

Jury/Portfolio Review

Year 3

Fall

THTR 7831 Advanced Properties I 3

THTR 7423 Advanced Scene Design III 4

THTR 7930 Theatre Production 2

THTR 8000 Thesis Research 3

Portfolio Review

Spring

THTR 7623 Theatre Technology Seminar I 3

Technology or Design Elective 3-4

THTR 7930 Theatre Production 1

THTR 8000 Thesis Research 3

Final Project

Each student in the M.F.A. Properties Technology and Design program is required to submit a formal thesis

based on research of a topic relating to the area or the completion of a major position on a Swine Palace

or LSU Theatre Mainstage production. While working on the thesis, the student will be supervised by a

faculty advisor. At least six hours of thesis credit are required. Final acceptance of the Master’s Thesis

rests with a committee of three or more members of the graduate faculty nominated by the Department

Chair and appointed by the Dean of the Graduate School. Additional information on the graduate thesis

is available in the Graduate School Catalog.

The MFA in Theatre: Specialization in Scenic Technology and Design prepares the theatre

artisan/manager to undertake positions with a wide scope of responsibility. The intention of the course of

study is to develop skills in scenic technology and design especially in the areas of structural analysis and

design, entertainment rigging, theatre machinery and automation, production management, set and

lighting design, and theatre safety. There is some flexibility in the program to better serve the student’s

academic needs. All students will undertake production positions on LSU Mainstage and Swine Palace

productions. Teaching, design and management opportunities exist for the qualified student.