Chapman University

What you'll study

The programme emphasises both practice and scholarship: students work across acting, directing, playwriting, design, dramaturgy and production while developing a coherent personal portfolio. Core learning typically includes scene study and advanced performance techniques, rehearsal and production practice, contemporary and historical dramatic texts, movement and voice training, and applied directing and dramaturgy. Students complete studio courses, workshops and mounted productions alongside seminars in theatre history, criticism and dramaturgical methods.

Practical components focus on ensemble rehearsal, public performances and collaborative projects that cross into film and media disciplines, allowing students to explore staging for stage and screen. Research-led modules support critical reflection, dramaturgical research, and project development for a final capstone—often realised as a public production, a staged reading series, or a practice-based research thesis.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised bachelor's degree in theatre, performance, fine arts or a related field, or demonstrate equivalent professional experience. The application typically asks for a personal statement outlining artistic aims, a curriculum vitae, academic transcripts and two or three letters of recommendation.

Performance applicants will usually be asked to audition (live or recorded) and to submit a repertoire selection. Applicants specialising in directing, design or writing are commonly asked to submit a portfolio or examples of recent work, and may be invited to an interview or design/practice assessment. International applicants must meet the university's English-language requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a broad range of careers across the performing arts and related sectors. Typical roles include performer, director, stage manager, dramaturg, theatre designer (lighting, set, costume), playwright, casting professional, arts producer and administrator. Graduates also move into related fields such as screen performance and production, education and community arts, or continue to doctoral-level study and professional training.

The programme's location and interdisciplinary links with film and media programmes support transitions into screen work and collaborative projects that bridge theatre and film industries.

Why study at Chapman University

Chapman offers small cohorts and close faculty mentoring, combining conservatory-style practical training with university-level scholarly study. Students benefit from access to on-campus performance and rehearsal facilities and from strong regional connections to the professional theatre and screen communities of Southern California. Cross-college collaboration enables students to work with film, screenwriting and production colleagues, expanding creative and career opportunities.

Faculty are practising theatre-makers and scholars who mentor individual project development and professional preparation, and the campus environment supports public-facing projects that build industry-ready portfolios and networks.