Master of Fine Arts in Design and Production, University of Victoria

Victoria - Can, British Columbia

24 Months

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About this course

The MFA in Design & Production at UVic offers students the opportunity to develop expertise in scenery, costume, and lighting design. Throughout the program, students will engage in practical applications within department productions, culminating in designing elements for a fully-realized performance for their final project. The program emphasizes both historical and contemporary performance design approaches, mastery of visual communication tools, and collaborative work with fellow artists. Students will also learn to critically analyze their own work and contextualize it within the international performance design landscape. The course is on-campus, full-time, with a potential for co-op experiences, and lasts for two years.

Why this course is highly recommended

The program prepares students to demonstrate a deep understanding of performance design, from both historical and modern perspectives. Students will master visual communication techniques, engage in complex collaborative projects, and build critical expertise. The opportunity to create original designs and reflect on personal artistic processes makes the program suitable for aspiring performance designers aiming for a comprehensive, practice-based education.

Specialisation

Students in this MFA focus on developing skills in at least one area of design—such as scenery, costume, or lighting—while also gaining a minor specialization in another design area. This allows for a tailored educational experience that aligns with each student's artistic interests and career goals.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

5.08L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Candidates must submit a statement of purpose, a detailed résumé, a writing sample demonstrating academic excellence, two references from theatre professionals or professors, and a digital portfolio illustrating 3-5 creative projects. Basic knowledge and experience in scenery, costume, and lighting design, along with some understanding of Western theatre history and directing, are required.

English language test

IELTS

6.5

TOEFL

PTE

DUOLINGO

Career prospects

Graduates of this MFA can pursue careers as performance designers specializing in scenery, costume, or lighting. The program equips students with the skills to work in professional theatre productions and related fields, engaging in design, directing, and collaborative artistic projects.

FAQs

What are the application requirements for the MFA in Design & Production?

Applicants must submit a statement of purpose, a detailed résumé, a writing sample, two references from theatre professionals or professors, and a digital portfolio showcasing their practice-based work. Basic knowledge of design and theatre history is also required.

How long is the program?

The program duration is two years of full-time study.