University of Cincinnati

What you'll study

The programme balances practical studio work with academic coursework. Core topics typically include acting technique, voice and movement, script analysis, theatre history, and dramatic literature. Students also study technical and design disciplines such as scenic, costume and lighting design, stagecraft, sound, and stage management.

Curriculum structure normally begins with foundation courses in performance and production, followed by intermediate and advanced classes that allow for greater specialisation. Typical modules and activities include:

• Acting and Performance: scene study, improvisation, audition technique, movement for actors, stage combat and vocal work.
• Production and Technical Theatre: scenic construction, lighting and sound technology, technical direction and production management.
• Design: set, costume and lighting design, drafting and model-making, digital design tools and portfolio development.
• Academic Studies: theatre history, dramatic literature, dramaturgy, theatre criticism and cultural studies.
• Directing and Playwriting: directing workshops, rehearsals as director, play development and scriptwriting.
• Practicum and Performance Opportunities: participation in departmental productions, student-led projects, and production crews to build practical experience.
• Capstone and Research: senior projects, practicum-based capstones or research essays that synthesise training and scholarship.

Students are encouraged to take electives across disciplines—such as music, dance, film and business—to broaden career options, and many take part in internships with local theatres and arts organisations.

Entry requirements

Admission to the University of Cincinnati follows the university's general undergraduate admission process. Specific requirements for a drama degree typically include a high school diploma or equivalent and submission of academic transcripts. Applicants for performance or design-focused pathways are usually required to audition or submit a creative portfolio.

• Academic record: competitive secondary school grades and course preparation in arts or liberal studies are relevant.
• Audition/Portfolio: applicants pursuing acting, musical theatre, design or technical specialisms should prepare an audition (monologues, songs where appropriate) or a portfolio of design/production work and may be invited to interview.
• Supporting materials: a personal statement outlining theatre experience and goals, letters of recommendation, and a résumé of relevant creative or technical experience strengthen an application.
• English language: non-native English speakers must demonstrate proficiency through accepted tests or qualifications as required by the university.

Career prospects

Graduates of a drama programme from the University of Cincinnati enter a wide range of careers in the performing arts and related sectors. Common pathways include:

• Actor or performer in theatre, film, television and new media
• Director, dramaturg or playwright
• Set, costume, lighting or sound designer
• Stage manager, technical director or production manager
• Arts administrator, production coordinator or marketing roles within cultural organisations
• Education roles such as drama teacher, workshop leader or community arts practitioner
• Related careers in event production, casting, talent management and content creation

The degree's combination of practical experience and academic study also provides transferable skills valued in many fields: collaboration, communication, project management, creative problem‑solving and public presentation.

Why study at University of Cincinnati

The University of Cincinnati offers a theatre education with strong practical emphasis and regular production opportunities, enabling students to apply classroom learning in realistic settings. The university's partnerships with local professional theatres and cultural organisations in Cincinnati provide pathways for internships, co‑operative experiences and community engagement.

Students benefit from experienced faculty who combine teaching with professional practice, access to dedicated rehearsal and performance spaces, and technical workshops and design studios. The campus environment encourages interdisciplinary collaboration across music, dance, film and the arts, helping graduates develop versatile skills for diverse career outcomes.