Required Coursework

The cohort of four MFA candidates takes all core program courses together, in sequence, over the course of three years. Each program course is taught by a member of BU’s Playwriting faculty.

You may refer to the Program Bulletin for the official course list.

Please note that the course requirements are presently being revised and the Language Requirement no longer applies. The Program Director can provide further information, should you have questions about required courses.

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Year one
In year one, MFA candidates can expect to:

  • Generate an abundance of stylistically diverse new work, in the form of short plays and adaptations.
  • With faculty guidance and mentorship, write first drafts of at least three, 60+ page plays.
  • Become immersed in the day-to-day life of Boston Playwrights’ Theatre (BPT), via administrative and production practicums.
  • Bring new works in front of audiences via staged readings and a workshop production with directors, designers, and actors from BU’s School of Theatre.

Year two
In year two, MFA candidates can expect to:

  • Continue to generate new work, with increased focus on the possibilities and problems of production and new play development.
  • With faculty guidance and mentorship, complete first drafts of at least three, 60+ page plays.
  • Teach playwriting to undergraduates at BU.
  • Pitch their proposed thesis play to Boston Playwrights’ Theatre’s Artistic Director.
  • Further develop their work via participation in the Boston Theater Marathon, and additional workshops or production opportunities as arranged.

Year three
In year three, MFA candidates can expect to:

  • Continue to generate new work, with an eye towards previously unexplored styles and forms.
  • With faculty guidance and mentorship, write first drafts of at least one 60+ page play and one original screenplay or TV pilot.
  • Teach playwriting to undergraduates at BU.
  • Receive a production of their thesis play at Boston Playwrights’ Theatre.
  • Present a selection of their work at an industry showcase in New York City.