University of San Diego

What you'll study

The programme delivers a balance of practical studio training, technical production courses and academic study in theatre history and dramatic literature. Core areas typically include acting technique, voice and movement, improvisation, scene study, script analysis and directing. Technical and design modules cover stagecraft, scenic and lighting design, costume, sound, and stage management, while production workshops and practicum provide hands‑on experience in mounting plays and musicals.

Students also take courses in theatre history and dramatic theory, playwriting and dramaturgy, and elective seminars that can address topics such as contemporary performance, devised theatre, musical theatre, or theatre for social change. The curriculum normally culminates in capstone work—such as a senior project, directed production or portfolio—and sustained participation in departmental productions, company ensembles or internships with local professional theatres.

• Acting, Voice and Movement
• Scene Study and Script Analysis
• Directing and Playwrighting
• Stagecraft: Scenery, Lighting and Sound
• Costume and Makeup for Performance
• Stage Management and Production Practicum
• Theatre History and Dramatic Theory
• Capstone Project or Senior Performance/Portfolio

Entry requirements

Admission to the University of San Diego requires a high‑school diploma or equivalent and submission of standard university application materials. For the Drama programme, applicants are typically expected to demonstrate commitment to theatre through a combination of academic record, personal statement and activities. Performance applicants may be required to attend an audition or submit a recorded audition; design/technical applicants may be asked to provide a portfolio or documentation of relevant work. Schools typically look for solid preparation in arts programmes, letters of recommendation and evidence of collaborative experience in productions or related extracurriculars.

Competitive applicants usually present strong academic standing and clear evidence of theatre experience. If you are uncertain about audition or portfolio expectations, contact the department for guidance on acceptable recordings, repertoire choices and submission formats.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of careers across the creative and cultural industries. Common pathways include professional acting and ensemble work, directing, stage and production management, scenic/lighting/costume/sound design, dramaturgy and playwriting. Alumni also move into arts administration, producing, education and community arts roles, or pursue further study such as an MFA, MA or specialised conservatory training.

The programme’s combination of practical training and liberal‑arts study equips graduates for flexible careers in repertory and regional theatres, commercial production, educational theatre, cultural organisations, touring companies, and related fields such as film, television and new media production.

Why study at University of San Diego

The University of San Diego offers theatre training within a residential liberal‑arts environment, enabling students to combine rigorous studio practice with a broad academic education. Small class sizes and close mentorship from faculty who are working practitioners allow for personalised training and meaningful performance opportunities. Students gain practical experience through departmental productions, production practicum and internship connections with the vibrant San Diego theatre community.

Studying at USD also provides access to a range of resources—including on‑campus performance spaces, technical shops and collaborative arts programmes—and opportunities for interdisciplinary work across departments. The location in San Diego creates proximity to leading regional theatres and cultural organisations, supporting professional networking, internships and post‑graduate career building.