Florida State University

What you'll study

This degree combines practical studio work with classroom study. Core areas include acting technique, voice and movement, script analysis, theatre history and dramatic literature. Students undertake hands-on modules in technical theatre—scenic design, lighting, sound, costume and stagecraft—as well as directing, stage management and dramaturgy.

• Performance modules: acting workshops, scene study, voice & speech, movement for the actor
• Design & production: scenic design, lighting design, costume construction, sound design, production lab
• Academic study: theatre history, play analysis, theatre theory and criticism
• Professional practice: stage management, directing practicum, production credits, internship placements
• Capstone experience: senior project or performance-based final project demonstrating cumulative skills

Students are typically required to participate in departmental productions, and there are opportunities to work on shows in multiple roles to build a broad portfolio of experience. Elective choices allow concentration in performance, design/technology or theatre studies.

Entry requirements

Applicants must hold a high-school diploma or equivalent and provide secondary-school transcripts. General university admission criteria apply; some pathways accept standardised-test-optional applications in line with institutional policy. For performance and design tracks, applicants should expect an additional audition or portfolio review as part of departmental selection.

• Academic transcripts showing completion of secondary education
• Departmental audition for performance applicants — prepared monologues and movement/exercises as requested
• Design/technical applicants may submit a portfolio of relevant work, photographs or a digital design portfolio
• Letters of recommendation and a personal statement outlining theatre experience and goals are commonly recommended

Transfer students are considered; credit evaluation is based on previous coursework and practicum experience. Applicants with professional experience in theatre should document credits and roles.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a wide range of careers across the performing arts, entertainment and education sectors. The programme equips students with practical and transferable skills valued in many creative workplaces.

• Professional actor or performer in theatre, film, television and new media
• Stage manager, technical director or production manager in theatre companies and touring productions
• Designer roles: set, lighting, costume or sound design for stage and screen
• Director, dramaturg or theatre maker creating new work and leading ensembles
• Arts administration, producing, casting or marketing roles within cultural organisations
• Secondary or further education teaching, or progression to graduate-level training (MFA, MA) in specialised areas

Why study at Florida State University

Florida State University offers a department with a full production season and substantial hands-on opportunities, so students gain experience in front of and behind the curtain. The location provides connections to a lively regional arts scene and to internships with professional companies and festivals.

Students benefit from dedicated performance spaces, design and fabrication workshops, and mentorship from faculty who combine academic scholarship with professional practice. The programme emphasises both vocational training and critical study, preparing graduates for immediate entry into the profession or for advanced study.