The Program

The Directing program is a rigorous, three-year full-time commitment for M.F.A. candidates; normally, two to three students are admitted each year.  Students are closely mentored by faculty consisting of working professionals.

Students who are selected for the program direct plays by established writers, as well as new plays by M.F.A. playwriting candidates.  Collaboration is enhanced through work with M.F.A. and B.F.A. scenic, lighting and costume designers, stage managers, and the resident company of M.F.A. and B.F.A. actors.

The professional director must be a visionary, an artist, a craftsman, and a leader.  With a heavy emphasis upon classroom theory and classroom directing, candidates direct at least one production each semester for the general public as part of the Jameson Project*.  The program offers breadth and depth to those aspiring to a career as a professional director.

Jameson Project

Noted for its role as a developmental stage, the Jameson Project is at the forefront of innovative and challenging work.  The Project affords students the opportunity to develop their skills before a public audience in eight to ten productions a year and M.F.A. students are responsible for all facets of the operation.  Past Jameson productions include Serenading Louis, Woyzeck, In the Blood, Other People and How I Learned to Drive.  World premiere one-act plays are produced and performed in this venue each year.

Interview Requirements*

• Interview:  Following an initial review of the application packet, the Theater Arts Department will call selected  applicants to schedule an interview.
• If you are asked to interview, there is a $75.00 non-refundable talent assessment fee.  (This fee in addition to the university’s standard application fee.)
• Resume and a headshot.
• 3.25 GPA

Application Deadline for Fall 2008   

Please apply online at http://gradstudy.rutgers.edu by March 1, 2008.

Interview Dates 

There is a $75.00 non-refundable talent assessment fee made payable by check, cash or money order.  Payments should be made to Rutgers University.   (This fee is in addition to the university’s standard application fee and is due no later than the time of the appointment.)

M.F.A. Directing National Interview Tour for Fall 2008 Admissions*

           Chicago: February 4, 5, 6, and 7, 2008 (7th - morning only)
           Palmer House

           San Francisco: February 8, 9, and 10, 2008
           A.C.T. (American Conservatory Theater)

*walk-ins welcome

Interviews at Rutgers University New Brunswick Campus      

         By appointment only.

Once online submissions have been processed, the Theater Arts Department will call selected applicants to schedule an interview.

For more information please contact Amy Saltz (Head of directing program) at asaltz@rci.rutgers.edu