Shakespeare & Performance Cost and Aid
Let’s look at the cost of an MLitt or MFA at MBU, and some of the ways we work with you to make your education affordable for you and your family.
All MBU Shakespeare and Performance students are eligible for merit scholarships, which reduce the costs by 20-25%, and have the opportunity to apply for various assistantships and fellowships.
Academic Year 2026-27
These costs apply to the Fall ’26 and Spring ’27 semesters.
Direct Costs
| MLitt & MFA | Non-Degree Seeking MFA | |
| Tuition | $785/credit hour | $765/credit hour |
| Technology and credentialing fee | $87.50/semester | $87.50/semester |
| MFA/MLitt Fest fee | $150 (one-time fee) | $150 (one-time fee) |
The MFA degree is traditionally a two-semester, 30-credit program, and the MLitt degree is traditionally a four-semester, 40-credit program.
Indirect Costs
Students should also anticipate additional indirect costs such as books, supplies, travel, housing, and personal items. These expenses are not billed by MBU but are considered when determining financial aid awards.
Semesterly estimates for these expenses are included below but vary from student to student:
| Books and supplies | $472 |
| Transportation | $768 |
| Personal expenses | $1,260 |
| Off-campus room/board | $8,958 |
| Loan fees (if federal loans are borrowed) | $72 |
| Total estimated indirect costs | $11,530/semester |