University of Mississippi

What you'll study

The programme combines practical studio training with theatre history and textual study. Core areas typically include acting (voice, movement, scene study), stagecraft (scenic, lighting, sound, and costume), stage management, directing, playwriting and dramaturgy, and theatre history and criticism. Students take progressive studio courses to build performance and technical skills, theatre studies seminars that examine dramatic literature and performance theory, and production courses that place students in season productions as performers and crew.

Typical modules and experiences you can expect include:

• Acting and performance: voice and diction, movement, improvisation, scene study and audition technique.
• Technical and design: scenic construction, lighting and sound design, costume construction and design principles, and drafting/ CAD for scenic design.
• Production and management: stage management practicum, production crew assignments and theatre practicum that support mounting public productions.
• Theory and history: theatre history, dramatic literature, script analysis and contemporary theatre studies.
• Capstone and electives: Senior projects, portfolio development, internships and opportunities to specialise through electives in areas such as playwriting, directing, or design technology.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary school qualification and meet the University of Mississippi’s general undergraduate admission standards. For performance-focused or conservatory-style tracks, applicants are normally required to audition and may be asked to submit a portfolio or attend an interview. Technical and design applicants may need to submit design portfolios or evidence of relevant practical experience. International applicants must meet English language requirements. Specific entry criteria and audition details are provided by the Department of Theatre and should be checked as part of the application process.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a broad range of careers across professional and community theatre, film and television, education, and arts management. Common roles include actor, director, stage manager, scenic/lighting/costume designer, technical director, dramaturg, theatre technician and arts administrator. Many graduates also pursue postgraduate training (such as MFA programmes), teacher certification for secondary school drama, or related careers in production for media, event management, and cultural organisations. The degree emphasises practical experience and portfolio development to support employability and freelance work.

Why study at University of Mississippi

The University of Mississippi offers a theatre programme that balances hands-on production experience with academic study, enabling students to work on departmental seasons and build a professional portfolio. Students benefit from small-class teaching, opportunities for mentorship by faculty with professional experience, and collaboration across campus arts units. The university’s regional connections and extracurricular theatre activity provide possibilities for internships and engagement with community and regional theatres, enhancing practical training and career preparation.