San Diego State University
LGBTQ+ AffirmingTest-Free
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Program Characteristics
Prescreen Required
Audition Required
Interview Required
In-Person Only
University App Required
Program Highlights
PROGRAM RECOGNITION
•First MFA Musical Theatre program in the nation (established 1982)
•Nationally recognized graduate program
ALUMNI & CAREERS
•Graduates have become performers, directors, choreographers, music directors, producers, casting directors, and educators worldwide
TRAINING
•Integration of professional performance training with academic study
•Faculty works individually with students to develop skills for professional careers and teaching
Key Info
Prescreen Requirements
Songs
TWO CONTRASTING SONGS, ~90 sec each
•Songs should contrast in style
Wildcard / Special Skill
N/A
Additional Materials
COVER LETTER (required, PDF)
•Personal statement of educational and professional goals
•Explain how an MFA in Musical Theatre will help achieve them
HEADSHOT (required)
•Upload via Acceptd
resume (required, PDF)
•Upload via Acceptd
CALSTATE APPLY ID (required)
•Include your 10-digit CAS ID number
LETTER OF RECOMMENDATION
•Provide email address of someone who knows you well as a creative artist
Callback Requirements
Songs
IN-PERSON CALLBACK
•Details provided upon invitation
Good to Know
APPLICATION PROCESS
•Two-step: Cal State Apply + Acceptd supplemental application
•Select Major as "MFA Theatre Arts (Musical Theatre)" on Cal State Apply
•Apply via Graduate Admissions
PROGRAM STRUCTURE
•Intensive 60-unit curriculum completed in two years
•Four consecutive semesters with one summer break
What's The Process
PRESCREEN
•Submit video audition and supplemental materials via Acceptd between October 1 – December 31
CALLBACK
•By January 31, selected students invited to audition and interview in person
•In-person callback held on SDSU campus in February or March
APPLICATION CYCLE
•Program auditions every two years for a new class
•Next application period opens October 1, 2025
CONTACT
•Prof. Robert Meffe — rmeffe@sdsu.edu
Program info updated Today
Academic School Information
3.84
Avg GPA (W)
34%
Admit Rate
78%
Grad Rate
33,654
Enrollment
$64,909
Earnings
10yr after
In-State Tuition
$8,290
before aid
Out-of-State Tuition
$20,170
before aid
Average Annual Cost
$16,174
after typical aid
Average annual cost is often lower than tuition because it accounts for grants and scholarships most students receive. It includes tuition, room & board, books, and supplies.
Annual Cost by Family Income
Family Income $0 - $30k$9,655
Family Income $30k - $48k$10,241
Family Income $48k - $75k$14,205
Family Income $75k - $110k$18,176
Family Income $110k+$24,913
