Theatre Programs In America

Credential

Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA)

Bachelor of Science (BS)

Associate of Arts (AA)

Associate of Fine Arts (AFA)

Diploma/ certificate

Program Length

4 years for bachelor's degree

2 years for associate's degree

1-3 years for diploma

12-52 weeks for certificate

Entry

Bachelor's degree - direct entry; entry after associate's degree

Associate's degree - direct entry

Diploma/ certificate - direct entry

Areas of Study

General arts, theatre, drama

Specialization areas include acting, scriptwriting, directing, technical theatre, theatre design, period- and region-specific theatre.

Special Features

Opportunity to work with visiting guest artists

Participation in public performance

Studio workshops

Limited enrollment

Opportunity to participate in specialized competitions

Broadway and Hollywood are two of the most famous places in the US for theatre arts and other acting opportunities. In fact, all across the country there are theatre programs--from limited-enrollment, competitive bachelor's degrees to community college diplomas and certificates--that can train international students for every possibility.

Theatre arts degrees provide flexibility for possible combinations of majors and minors, so that you can tailor your program to your talents and interests. For instance, within a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Theatre you might study technical theatre, theatre design, directing, writing or acting, as well as theatre from different periods, such as Shakespearean drama, modern theatre, American theatre, European theatre and theatre history. You can also pursue a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in playwriting or acting: for instance, the Actor Training Program (ATP) is a 4-year professional program for those serious about an acting career.

Because theatre intersects with other performing arts--such as music and dance--don't forget to check out honors, double major and interdisciplinary studies options. This range of choices means finding the right program itself requires creativity: some institutions have specific theatre Schools or Colleges, while other colleges offer theatre programs in Colleges or Schools of Arts, Fine Arts, Liberal Arts, and possibly others. There are also specialty 4-year colleges devoted exclusively to the arts, so make sure you look around! Many smaller liberal arts colleges in the US also offer theatre programs, and those who want to study theatre arts in a different context may want to consider taking theatre at a Christian, Catholic or women's college.

Most 4-year college theatre programs combine theoretical, historical and cultural learning with practical studio or lab work, and often culminate in public performances. Field trips and travel sessions are sometimes optional, sometimes compulsory, so that students are exposed to important art works and working situations "live." Class sizes are small, thereby giving students an intimate and personal education that encourages exploration and development of their own artistic vision. A bachelor's degree in theatre is a good start to a career in the arts, or as a step towards a master's degree.

Many community and technical colleges in the US also offer performing arts programs, with some colleges dedicated solely to this field. Their programs are usually 2-year associate's degrees-such as Associate of Arts (AA) and Associate of Fine Arts (AFA). As well, 1- to 3-year diplomas or certificates in the more technical aspects of theatre, such as costuming or the many aspects of technical production and stagecraft, prepare students for employment, and these credentials often qualify for university transfer credit in the US. Community college programs tend to be more career-oriented and may include business skills. Diplomas and certificates may also be available.

So whether it's on stage or behind the scenes, there are many educational paths in the US for international students looking to making a career in the magic of theatre.