Florida International University

What you'll study

This undergraduate programme balances practical studio work with theoretical and historical study of theatre. Core areas include acting technique (voice, speech and movement), improvisation, scene study and audition technique; text analysis, playwriting and dramaturgy; directing fundamentals; and courses in theatre history and dramatic literature. Technical and production subjects cover stagecraft, set, lighting and sound design, costume and makeup, stage management, and production technology.

Students take a combination of major-specific courses and general education requirements. Practical learning is emphasised through conservatory-style studios, production crews and rehearsal labs; every student is expected to participate in departmental productions, workshops and performance labs. Senior-year work often culminates in a capstone project or a public performance demonstrating achieved skills and creative development. Electives and cross-disciplinary modules allow students to explore film and television acting, digital media for performance, arts administration and education.

Typical modules and activities

• Acting: technique, voice & speech, movement
• Scene Study and Text Analysis
• Improvisation and Devising
• Directing and Dramaturgy
• Theatre History and Contemporary Performance Theory
• Stagecraft: set, lighting, sound and costume
• Stage Management and Production Practice
• Design Studio and Portfolio Development
• Professional Practicum / Internship and Ensemble Projects
• Senior Capstone Project or Final Performance

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally required to hold a recognised secondary school diploma with a record of academic achievement in relevant subjects. Entry to performance-focused strands commonly involves an audition (prepared monologues, cold readings or movement work) and may require a short interview or portfolio for design applicants. Applicants for more academically oriented paths should expect to submit a personal statement explaining their interest in theatre, and may be asked for letters of recommendation.

FIU looks for demonstrated commitment to theatre through school productions, community theatre, workshops or related experience; prospective students with varied artistic backgrounds are encouraged to apply. International applicants must meet the university’s English language proficiency requirements. Exact GPA or test-score thresholds are set by the admissions office and can vary by year and programme strand.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to a wide variety of careers across the performing arts and creative industries. Typical pathways include professional acting for stage, film and television; directing and dramaturgy; stage, lighting and sound design; technical theatre and production management; stage management; theatre education and community arts; casting and talent development; and arts administration or producing. The programme also provides transferable skills valued in other sectors: creative problem solving, teamwork, communication, project management and public presentation.

Many alumni pursue further study at conservatoires, graduate theatre programmes or specialised design schools; others combine performance training with work in South Florida’s vibrant theatre, film and media industries or seek opportunities nationally and internationally.

Why study at Florida International University

Florida International University is located in Miami, a multicultural cultural hub with a lively theatre, dance and film scene. Studying at FIU gives students access to on-campus production facilities, regular public performances and opportunities to collaborate across disciplines within the College of Communication, Architecture + The Arts. Faculty typically include working practitioners and scholars who bring professional experience and industry connections to teaching and mentoring.

FIU’s location supports internships and practical placements with regional theatres, production companies and media organisations, and the programme’s emphasis on combining studio practice with academic study prepares graduates for both professional work and postgraduate study. The department’s production schedule, rehearsal-based training and community partnerships create an environment for developing a professional portfolio and gaining the practical credits employers and graduate schools look for.