Marywood University

What you'll study

The Drama degree blends practical studio work with academic study. Core studio modules typically include acting technique, voice and speech, movement for the actor, scene study and audition preparation. Production and technical modules cover stagecraft, scenic and lighting design, costume construction, sound design and technical direction. Academic courses introduce play analysis, dramatic literature, theatre history and contemporary theatre practices. Students also take courses in directing, dramaturgy, theatre management and often have options in musical theatre, children’s theatre or applied theatre.

Structure usually combines required core courses, elective options and a sequence of production lab/practicum credits. Most students participate in departmental productions each year, and the programme commonly culminates in a senior project or capstone performance that integrates practical and theoretical learning.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high-school diploma or equivalent with a record of college preparatory coursework. Typical academic preparation includes strong performance in English and arts subjects. Marywood may require or strongly encourage an audition or interview to assess performance potential and fit for the programme; applicants should be ready to present a short monologue, song (if applicable) or portfolio of previous work. Admissions may also request a personal statement and letters of recommendation. International students must meet the university’s English language proficiency requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a variety of careers across the performing arts and related fields. Common career paths include:

• Actor or performer in theatre, film, television and new media
• Director, stage manager or dramaturg
• Set, lighting or costume designer and technical production roles
• Arts administrator, producer or audience development specialist
• Teaching at community level or K–12 theatre with appropriate certification
• Further study at conservatories or graduate programmes in theatre, directing, design or arts management

Many students also build careers in allied industries such as event production, community arts, outreach and therapeutic or educational theatre programmes.

Why study at Marywood University

Marywood offers a liberal-arts environment with smaller class sizes and close faculty mentorship, allowing practical studio time alongside a broad academic curriculum. The department emphasises hands-on production experience, so students gain regular opportunities to work on mainstage and experimental productions, as well as technical shops and costume studios. Its location in northeastern Pennsylvania provides connections to regional theatre companies and internship options, while the university’s interdisciplinary approach allows students to combine theatre study with complementary areas such as education, communication or business. Faculty are practising theatre artists and educators who support professional preparedness, audition training and portfolio development.