Acting
The Master of Arts in Acting provides a deeply immersive and performance-centered curriculum for students who want to develop advanced artistic, technical, and embodied skills across a wide range of acting traditions. The program integrates training in voice technique, movement practices, text interpretation, and acting theory, exposing learners to classical, contemporary, and experimental approaches to performance. Through intensive studio work, scene study, and ensemble collaboration, students refine the expressive tools that shape compelling characters and emotionally resonant performances. This academic foundation encourages learners to explore the physical, psychological, and creative dimensions of acting while building confidence through structured practice and professional guidance.
Alongside its artistic focus, the program emphasizes hands-on performance experience through workshops, rehearsals, public productions, and collaborations with directors, writers, and designers. Students engage in exercises that strengthen skills in character development, creative problem-solving, ensemble communication, and professional stagecraft, gaining insight into the demands of rehearsal processes and live performance environments. Interaction with visiting artists and faculty specialists broadens their understanding of evolving performance practices and industry expectations. Through reflective practice, research-based exploration, and real production work, graduates cultivate both artistic depth and professional adaptability, preparing them for the multifaceted nature of contemporary acting careers.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Acting
- Degree Type: Master of Arts
- Duration: 2 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 January 2026
- Location: Northwestern University, United States
- Field of Study: Drama
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of Acting Technique & Performance Craft
• Acting Technique I
• Voice and Speech for the Performer
• Movement and Physical Expression
• Script and Scene Analysis
Semester 2 – Character Work, Ensemble Practice & Creative Interpretation
• Acting Technique II
• Ensemble Collaboration Workshop
• Text Work: Classical and Modern Scenes
• Rehearsal and Performance Lab
Semester 3 – Advanced Acting, Research & Performance Innovation
• Acting for Stage and Screen
• Improvisation and Creative Exploration
• Performance Research Seminar
• Production Project Workshop
Semester 4 – Professional Practice, Showcase & Artistic Development
• Master Acting Studio
• Professional Portfolio and Career Preparation
• Graduate Showcase Preparation
• Final Performance Project
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for diverse artistic, educational, and performance-based roles across theatre, film, television, and emerging media platforms. Many professionals work in theatre companies, film and television productions, performing arts organizations, and acting studios, taking on roles as performers, teachers, artistic collaborators, or creative leaders. Their responsibilities often include preparing audition materials, performing in stage or screen productions, participating in rehearsals, contributing to ensemble projects, and refining characters through continuous research and practice. Graduates may also engage in script development, movement coaching, or voice training, depending on their interests and strengths. With strong preparation in performance technique, artistic interpretation, and collaborative production, graduates are well suited to pursue careers in touring theatre, independent filmmaking, arts education, community performance programs, or creative entrepreneurship. The program also provides a foundation for future study at the doctoral or conservatory level for those wishing to deepen their pedagogical or scholarly engagement with the performing arts.
Why Choose This Program
This program is ideal for students who want to develop a strong artistic identity while mastering the technical and interpretive demands of stage and screen performance. Its curriculum highlights creative exploration, embodied performance work, and professional artistic practice, guiding learners from foundational technique to advanced performance preparation. The two-year structure supports sustained mentorship, diverse production opportunities, and an environment where students can build a professional portfolio that reflects their creative growth. Learners benefit from direct engagement with industry practitioners, access to performance facilities, and exposure to varied approaches that expand their artistic range. For individuals seeking to build a dynamic career in acting, strengthen their expressive capabilities, or enter the performing arts with confidence and versatility, this program offers a rigorous and inspiring academic pathway.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 312 555 2040
Email: admissions@northwestern.edu
Address: University of Northwestern, 633 Clark Street, Evanston, IL 60208, United States
