Tulane MFA requirements?

Hey guys,

I’m deciding to go on the MT MFA route because I’m unable to do the BFA route, but in the meantime, I’ll still be training. however, I do not understand the admission requirements they listed on their website. Can someone help me out before I email them?

Thanks! :slight_smile:

Edit: I understand there is a separate Grad forum, but I put it here because more people who would understand MT Schools would see vs all grad school members put together.

Maybe you could post a link or list the requirements then people might have a better idea what you need help with.

@KTVoice Graduate Studies
The Department of Music offers the Master of Arts degree in Composition, Music History and Music Science and Technology and the Master of Fine Arts degree in performance and musical theatre. If you have any questions about the following material please contact us at (504) 865-5267 or music@tulane.edu

Applications:
Applying to an SLA Graduate Program

Entrance Requirements:

Bachelors of Arts, Bachelors of Fine Arts, or equivalent degree from a recognized university or conservatory.

Evidence of musical knowledge equivalent to that of an undergraduate music major at Tulane.

Application Procedure:

Apply to the School of Liberal Arts - Graduate Programs Division

  • Submit the on-line application
  • Submit the on-line letters of recommendation
  • Take the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) in general areas, not in music
  • Submit musical documentation to the Music Department, Dixon Hall, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70118-5683.

1.) Composers must submit a portfolio of original compositions to Professor Barbara Jazwinski, Head of the Composition Program.

2.) Performers on an instrument must submit a video tape demonstrating their proficiency in the respective performance area: works chosen from a variety of times and places.

3.) Music historians submit a short paper demonstrating their ability to write on and research musical topics.

  • Applicants will be notified if further auditions are necessary.

And then:

*Candidates for the M.F.A. degree in Musical Theater must take 36 hours of course work and must either perform a recital or choreograph or direct a major musical theater production. Performers must submit a headshot and resume to Michael Howard, head of the Musical Theatre Program. The performers will be expected to audition live or with a video. The audition will include two songs and a monologue. Dance is optional

It appears on face value that they require:

I would ask about the level of music proficiency required for the MT program. Since most MT programs require 1-2 semesters of musical theory, aural training, and keyboarding, I would assume that level of musical knowledge is what they require, but perhaps they expect more or maybe they will accept less.Since their program is in the department of music, it seems logical that they will expect at least a modicum of knowledge about music theory, along with basic aural and keyboard skills.

And you need to submit a headshot and resume, and be ready to audition live or via video:

@EmsDad Thank you! The music proficiency was red line I was confused about. Their graduate courses also confused me since half you can only take if you’re a piano or composition student… I guess we’ll see… Thank you for the help though!

Have you looked at what courses are required for an undergrad?
What is your undergrad degree in?

Can you add any music courses now before you apply for an MFA?

It is my understanding that most people world professionally before they get an MFA… is that an option for you?

Slightly off topic - but I had always thought that it was “typical” to work a bit before MFA- but D has 3 friends graduating from NYU this year who have been going through the process- all with very favorable results.

@toowonderful - my d’s acting prof this semester, who works a lot professionally, said that actors who want to work on stage should seriously consider going the MFA route since many/most of them may it find it hard to be cast until their mid-late twenties (sometimes even later). FIlm/TV is more of a toss-up. Opposite recommendation for MT’s: audition like crazy as soon as you can…

My S got an MFA offer this year that’s really appealing but he’s leaning towards working a little before he goes…money’s scarce and he’s been training for four years, time to see what he’s got, I think.