University of Missouri-Kansas City

What you'll study

The BA in Drama combines practical studio courses with academic study in theatre history, dramatic literature and dramaturgy. Core areas include acting technique, voice and speech, movement, scene study and audition preparation; technical theatre subjects such as scenery, lighting, sound, costume and stagecraft; and directing, playwriting and dramaturgy.

• Performance: acting classes, scene study, improvisation, rehearsal process, on-stage productions and audition technique.
• Production and Design: scenic and costume design, lighting and sound technology, stage management, theatre technology and production practicum.
• Academic Study: theatre history, dramatic literature, theory, cultural contexts of performance and script analysis.
• Specialist Seminars and Electives: directing, playwriting, movement for actors, screen acting, theatre pedagogy and arts management.
• Capstone and Performance Opportunities: senior projects, directed productions, design portfolios and participation in departmental seasons.

Students balance studio classes with general education requirements, and gain hands-on experience through departmental productions, technical crew assignments and collaborative projects across disciplines.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have completed secondary education or an equivalent qualification. Admission typically requires submission of an application, official transcripts and a personal statement explaining interest in theatre. Because the programme emphasises practical training, applicants are normally required to audition or submit a performance portfolio/video and may be invited to an interview.

• Official secondary school transcripts or equivalent.
• Audition or performance portfolio/video demonstrating acting or production work (requirements vary by pathway).
• Personal statement describing theatrical experience and goals.
• Letters of recommendation (typically one to two academic or professional references).
• International students must meet English language proficiency requirements.

Specific audition materials, repertoire requirements and any additional departmental forms are provided by the Department of Theatre; prospective students should consult the department for detailed instructions.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a wide range of careers across the arts, education and media. The programme prepares students for work as professional actors, directors, stage and production managers, designers (scenic, lighting, costume, sound), dramaturgs and playwrights. Skills learned are also applicable to related fields such as casting, arts administration, producing, community arts programming, theatre education and film/television performance.

Many alumni work in regional and national theatre companies, touring productions, film and television, or build freelance careers combining performance and technical work. Others continue to graduate-level training in MFA programmes, teacher certification or arts leadership and management pathways.

Why study at University of Missouri–Kansas City

UMKC offers a theatre education grounded in rigorous studio training and supported by a liberal arts foundation. The Department of Theatre provides frequent production opportunities that allow students to build professional credits while developing their craft in real rehearsal and performance contexts. Faculty with professional experience guide students in both creative and technical disciplines.

Studying in Kansas City gives students access to an active regional arts scene and opportunities for internships, collaborations and networking with local professional companies and venues. The programme emphasises hands-on learning, interdisciplinary collaboration with related departments, and pathways to graduate study or professional practice.

Facilities include dedicated rehearsal spaces, performance venues and technical workshops where students can practise design, construction and technical production; students graduate with portfolios or showreels and practical experience that support entry into the theatre and media industries.