Idaho State University

What you'll study

This programme combines advanced coursework, supervised practicum in department productions and a substantive capstone (thesis or creative project) to deepen both practical and scholarly competence in theatre. Students study a mix of performance, production and academic subjects with opportunities to specialise according to their interests.

• Core and advanced practice modules: Advanced Acting Techniques, Directing Workshop, Voice and Movement, Stage Combat, and Scene Study.
• Design and technical modules: Scenic Design, Lighting Design, Costume Design, Stagecraft and Technical Production, and Sound Design.
• Theory and scholarship: Contemporary Theatre History, Dramaturgy, Play Analysis, Research Methods in Theatre, and Performance Studies.
• Professional practice: Theatre Management and Marketing, Producing, Community Engagement in the Arts, and Internship/Practicum in departmental productions or regional theatres.
• Capstone options: An original thesis, a creative project (for example a mounted production or portfolio of design work), or a combined research‑practice project under faculty supervision.

Teaching is delivered through seminars, practical studio classes, rehearsal and production assignments, and individual mentorship. Graduate students are expected to participate in the department's season of performances, taking roles onstage or in production teams to build professional experience.

Entry requirements

• A bachelor’s degree or equivalent from an accredited institution, typically in theatre, drama, or a closely related field. Applicants with substantial relevant professional experience may also be considered.
• A competitive undergraduate academic record; many successful applicants hold a generally strong GPA (programmes commonly expect the equivalent of a 2:1 or higher, or a GPA at or above a standard graduate admission threshold).
• Supplementary materials: a statement of purpose outlining artistic and scholarly goals, a current CV or resume, and two to three academic or professional letters of recommendation.
• Performance or portfolio requirements vary by focus: actors and directors are usually asked to submit an audition video or attend an audition/interview; designers and playwrights submit a portfolio of work or writing samples.
• International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests (or provide evidence of prior study in English) according to university policy.
• Some applicants may be invited to an interview with faculty as part of the assessment process.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a range of careers across professional theatre, education and the wider creative industries. The programme prepares students for both artistic and administrative roles.

• Professional actor, director or rehearsal director in regional, national or touring companies.
• Theatre designer or technical director working in set, lighting, costume or sound design.
• Stage manager, production manager or technical production specialist.
• Dramaturg, literary manager or script consultant for theatres and festivals.
• Arts administrator, producer or development officer in cultural organisations.
• Secondary or post‑secondary teaching (often with additional certification or progress to doctoral study for academic careers).
• Independent theatre-maker, playwright or interdisciplinary performance artist.

Why study at Idaho State University

Idaho State University’s Department of Theatre Arts offers a focused, practice‑led graduate experience within a supportive, small‑cohort environment. Students benefit from regular mounted productions and access to dedicated facilities, including rehearsal studios, technical shops and theatre spaces that provide real production experience.

Faculty combine professional theatre experience and scholarly expertise, providing mentorship across performance, design and research. Graduate assistantships and practicum placements give hands‑on responsibility in teaching, production management and front‑of‑house operations, helping students build a professional portfolio and industry contacts in the region and beyond.

The programme’s emphasis on both practical training and scholarly inquiry prepares graduates to enter the profession with adaptable skills for artistic creation, education and arts leadership.