Southern Methodist University

What you'll study

The programme is rooted in practical studio training and supported by classroom study. Typical modules and subjects include:

• Acting and performance — scene study, improvisation, voice and speech, movement, audition technique and character work.
• Design and technical theatre — scenic design, lighting, costume, sound, stagecraft, CAD for theatre and technical production practicum.
• Directing and dramaturgy — fundamentals of directing, script analysis, play development and production dramaturgy.
• Theatre history and literature — survey courses covering dramatic literature from classical to contemporary periods, plus critical approaches to performance.
• Production laboratory — participation in departmental seasons as actors, designers, stage managers or technicians; rehearsal and run crew experience is integral.
• Complementary studies — courses in playwriting, film/television acting, arts management, and electives across the Meadows School and wider university to broaden contextual knowledge.

Students follow a curriculum that balances skill-building studios with academic seminars, culminating in capstone projects or senior showcases for performance and design students. Internships and collaborative projects with Dallas arts organisations provide professional experience.

Entry requirements

Admission typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent and evidence of academic preparation. Performance and some specialised tracks expect additional evaluation:

• Audition — applicants for acting or performance-focused pathways usually submit an audition (live or recorded) demonstrating technique and range.
• Portfolio or design interview — applicants seeking design or technical concentrations may be asked to submit a portfolio of creative work and attend a faculty interview.
• Academic documents — official transcripts, a personal statement outlining theatrical experience and goals, and one or more letters of recommendation are commonly requested.
• Standardised tests — submission policies for standardised tests vary; check university guidance. International applicants should demonstrate English language proficiency by recognised tests or exemptions.

Specific audition requirements, repertoire lists and portfolio guidelines are provided by the Meadows School of the Arts; prospective students should consult the programme admissions pages for concrete instructions and preparation tips.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a wide range of careers across the performing arts and related fields. Typical paths include:

• Professional actor in theatre, film and television
• Theatre director and assistant director
• Scenic, lighting, costume or sound designer
• Stage manager, production manager and technical director
• Dramaturg, playwright and theatre researcher
• Arts administrator, producing, marketing and development roles within companies and venues
• Education — teaching at community, secondary or higher education levels (additional certification may be required)
• Related creative industries — casting, talent management, event production, and multimedia performance

The programme’s production experience, industry partnerships and internship opportunities in the Dallas arts ecosystem help graduates build professional networks and practical résumés.

Why study at Southern Methodist University

Southern Methodist University’s Meadows School of the Arts offers a blend of conservatory-style training and liberal arts education within a major metropolitan arts scene. Students benefit from multiple on-campus performance spaces, faculty who are active practitioners, and a production season that gives regular opportunities to work on fully mounted shows. The university’s location in Dallas provides access to regional theatres, professional companies and cultural institutions for internships and collaborative projects. Cross-disciplinary options within Meadows and the wider university allow students to combine theatre study with courses in film, music, business or humanities to shape a personalised career pathway.