Michigan State University

What you'll study

The programme combines practical training, production work and academic study. Core areas of study typically include advanced acting technique, directing, play analysis, dramaturgy, theatre history and dramatic theory. Students choose more specialised pathways—such as scenic design, costume design, lighting and sound, stage management, theatre pedagogy or theatre administration—and follow a mix of seminars, studio courses and practicum placements.

Typical modules and activities include:

• Performance studios and voice/movement training for actors
• Directing workshops and rehearsals with invited casts
• Design studios for scenic, costume, lighting and sound with technical assignments
• Theatre history and contemporary performance theory seminars
• Dramaturgy and script analysis; methods of adaptation and new-work development
• Production practicum: participation in departmental seasons as designers, technicians, stage managers or performers
• Research methods and a longer independent project—either a thesis, practicum portfolio or a capstone creative project depending on degree pathway

The programme emphasises hands-on learning in production shops and performance spaces, collaboration across specialisms, and opportunities to work with visiting artists and interdisciplinary partners across the university.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised bachelor’s degree in theatre, performance, design or a related discipline. Those from adjacent fields with relevant practical experience are also considered. Admissions typically require:

• A completed application with official academic transcripts
• A statement of purpose outlining research or artistic goals
• References (usually two or three academic or professional letters)
• A portfolio of creative work or a design portfolio for design applicants
• An audition for acting applicants or an interview/audition equivalent for performance-focused pathways
• Evidence of English language proficiency for international applicants (such as IELTS or TOEFL) when applicable

Some specialisms may ask for additional materials (sample writing, production records, or CAD/technical drawings). GRE scores are not typically required by theatre programmes; applicants should check the department’s specific application instructions for any programme-specific requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a broad range of theatre- and performance-related careers. Common paths include:

• Professional actor or director in regional, national and touring companies
• Design careers in scenic, costume, lighting and sound for theatre, film, television or events
• Stage management and technical director roles in professional and educational theatre
• Dramaturgy, literary management and new-play development
• Arts administration, producing and theatre management
• Teaching at secondary or post-secondary level (with appropriate teaching credentials) or pursuing doctoral study in theatre studies
• Community arts practice, outreach and applied theatre in healthcare, education or social justice contexts

The programme’s combination of production experience and academic study prepares graduates for both practical careers and further research or teaching trajectories.

Why study at Michigan State University

Michigan State University’s Department of Theatre offers an environment that blends rigorous academic inquiry with a full production season and substantial hands-on training. Graduate students benefit from faculty who are active practitioners and scholars, established production facilities and technical shops, and opportunities to work in campus performance spaces as well as in collaboration with the university’s broader arts and community partners.

Study at MSU also provides access to regional professional networks in Lansing and the wider Michigan arts scene, opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration across the College of Arts & Letters, and common graduate assistantship and funding routes that combine teaching and production responsibilities with advanced study.