Michigan State University

What you'll study

The programme combines studio-based practical training with classroom study of theatre history, dramatic literature and critical analysis. Core areas typically include acting, voice and movement, stagecraft, design (scenic, lighting, costume, sound), directing, playwriting and theatre production management. Students progress from foundational classes in performance technique and technical skills to advanced workshops and specialisms in their chosen track.

• Core modules: Introduction to Acting, Voice and Speech, Movement for the Actor, Stagecraft and Scene Shop, Theatre History and Dramatic Literature, Play Analysis.
• Design and technology: Scenic Design, Lighting Design, Costume Construction and Design, Sound Design, CAD for theatre, advanced shop practicum.
• Performance and directing: Scene Study, Ensemble Practice, Directing Fundamentals, Script Development, Rehearsal Techniques.
• Production experience: Participation in departmental productions as actors, designers, stage managers, or technicians; practicum credit for crew work; senior capstone or production project.
• Electives and interdisciplinary options: Theatre for Social Change, Theatre Management and Producing, Dramaturgy, courses in film/television, education, or writing available through cross-department study.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a secondary school diploma with a competitive academic record. Recommended preparatory subjects include English, literature, and performing or visual arts courses where available. For performance-focused pathways, applicants are commonly required to submit an audition; design and technical applicants typically submit a portfolio of work and/or attend an interview. Additional application components often include a personal statement outlining theatrical experience and goals, and letters of recommendation.

International applicants must meet the university's English proficiency requirements through an approved test or equivalent qualification. Specific audition or portfolio formats and departmental prerequisites are provided by the Department of Theatre and should be checked before applying.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of theatre-related and adjacent careers. Common paths include professional acting, directing, stage management, set/lighting/costume design, sound engineering and technical direction. Alumni also move into arts administration, producing, casting, dramaturgy, community and educational theatre, and roles in film, television and digital media. Many graduates pursue postgraduate training such as an MFA or teacher certification for careers in higher education or K–12 theatre programmes.

Why study at Michigan State University

Michigan State's theatre programme combines a large public university's resources with intensive practical training. Students benefit from departmental production seasons that provide regular opportunities to work on fully realised shows, hands-on access to scene shops and costume facilities, and collaborations with the Wharton Center for the Performing Arts and local professional theatres for internships and public performance exposure.

The department supports individual development through faculty mentorship, opportunities to specialise in performance or design/technology tracks, study abroad and interdisciplinary combinations with film, music, education and business. Scholarships, undergraduate research opportunities and a network of alumni working across the arts help graduates make the transition into professional and academic careers.