University of Rochester

What you'll study

The programme balances studio practice and scholarly inquiry. Core work typically covers acting technique, voice and speech, movement, improvisation and scene study. Students also study play analysis, theatre history, dramaturgy and theatre theory, alongside practical courses in directing, stage management, lighting, sound, set and costume design, and stagecraft.

Coursework is organised to support progressive skill development: introductory studios and foundations lead into advanced performance projects, directing practica, design studios and collaborative production opportunities. Students are expected to participate in departmental productions and labs, where classroom learning is applied to mounted shows. Electives and seminars allow focus areas such as playwriting, theatre technology, performance studies, or interdisciplinary projects that link theatre with music, film, digital media or social practice.

Because the programme sits within a research university, students also take liberal-arts requirements that broaden critical thinking and contextual knowledge, including literature, history, psychology and arts administration courses that inform theatrical practice.

Entry requirements

Admission to the University of Rochester is competitive and based on a holistic review of academic records, recommendations and personal statements. Applicants who intend to major in theatre should demonstrate academic readiness alongside evidence of commitment to the performing arts.

• Typical academic preparation: secondary-school completion with strong grades; for UK applicants, strong A-levels (or equivalent) are expected, with at least three qualifications at standard levels. Recommended subjects include Drama/Theatre, English, and other humanities or arts subjects.
• Artistic evidence: applicants focused on performance are encouraged to submit an audition or video samples of their work; those aiming at design/technical theatre should supply a design portfolio or documentation of technical projects. Check the university admissions information for current guidance on submissions.
• Standard materials: personal statement, academic references, and standardised-test information where applicable. International applicants should demonstrate English language proficiency per university requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of theatre and arts-related careers. Common paths include acting, directing, stage management, dramaturgy, playwriting and technical or design roles for theatre, opera and film. Other opportunities include arts administration, education, producing, casting and production management. The programme’s liberal-arts context also prepares graduates for graduate study in theatre, fine arts, education, or related professional programmes such as MFA and MA degrees.

Students often broaden their career options by undertaking internships with local theatres and cultural organisations, building portfolios for design work, and developing networks through productions, collaborations and faculty mentorship.

Why study at University of Rochester

The University of Rochester offers a theatre education grounded in both intensive studio training and liberal-arts inquiry. Small class sizes and close faculty mentoring allow personalised development across performance and production disciplines. The department’s placement within a full university enables cross-disciplinary collaboration with music, film, and arts-related academic units.

Students benefit from practical production opportunities and connections to the wider regional arts scene, gaining professional experience through internships and collaborative projects. The programme’s emphasis on both practice and critical reflection equips graduates with adaptable skills valued in artistic and non‑artistic careers alike.