University of Michigan

What you'll study

The programme combines studio practice, academic coursework and production experience. Core areas typically include acting technique, voice and movement, improvisation, script analysis and scene study; theatre history and dramatic literature; directing and dramaturgy; and the technical and design disciplines such as scenic design, lighting, costume and sound. Students take classes in rehearsal and performance, participate in laboratory courses that focus on craft and technique, and contribute to faculty‑directed and student‑led productions.

Coursework emphasises both individual skill development and collaborative processes. Typical modules and learning activities include:

• Acting and performance practice: scene work, voice, movement, stage combat, audition technique.
• Theatre history & literature: surveys of dramatic traditions, playwright studies and critical approaches to dramatic texts.
• Design & production: scenic, lighting, costume and sound design; drafting, CAD, fabrication and technical theatre practicum.
• Directing & dramaturgy: script analysis, rehearsal planning and production dramaturgy.
• Collaborative labs and productions: mounting mainstage and studio shows, stage management, crew and running crews.
• Professional development: career seminars, audition preparation, portfolio and showreel development, internships and industry connections.

Students may be able to combine theatre study with other university majors or minors, and can often access cross‑disciplinary courses in film, music, dance, literature and design to broaden their skills.

Entry requirements

Admissions typically expect a strong academic secondary‑school record and evidence of commitment to theatre. Required materials commonly include an application, academic transcripts and a personal statement describing theatrical experience and goals. Applicants for performance or design tracks should be prepared to audition or submit a portfolio of work; these assessments evaluate technique, creative approach and potential. Colleges at the university may also ask for letters of recommendation and records of extracurricular involvement.

Because programmes vary in focus and competitiveness, prospective students should consult official admissions guidance for details on audition formats, portfolio specifications and any additional departmental requirements. Mature applicants or those with non‑traditional backgrounds are usually judged on a combination of experience and demonstrated potential.

Career prospects

Graduates with a bachelor’s in Drama/theatre pursue a wide range of careers in the performing arts and related fields. Common pathways include:

• Professional acting for theatre, television and film.
• Directing, stage management and dramaturgy for producing organisations.
• Design and technical careers: set, lighting, costume and sound design, technical direction and production management.
• Arts administration, producing, marketing and fundraising for theatre companies and cultural institutions.
• Education and outreach: teaching, community arts programmes and youth theatre leadership.
• Related media and creative industries: casting, script development, filmmaking, and digital/interactive performance.

Many graduates also pursue further study at conservatoires, graduate programmes in theatre studies or related disciplines, or build freelance careers that combine multiple strands of practice.

Why study at University of Michigan

The University of Michigan offers a rich environment for theatre study, with substantial production resources, experienced faculty and multiple performance venues that allow students to gain practical experience across a range of roles. Students benefit from interdisciplinary collaboration across strong neighbouring programmes in music, dance, film, design and the humanities, and can take advantage of university technical shops, rehearsal spaces and academic libraries.

The university’s location and alumni network provide connections to regional professional theatres and creative industries, while departmental programmes often emphasise professional readiness through internships, guest artists, workshops and career support. For students seeking both rigorous academic study and regular, high‑quality production opportunities, the university provides a platform to develop as theatre makers, scholars and arts professionals.