Colorado State University

What you'll study

The programme blends practical studio work with classroom study. Core areas typically include acting technique, voice and movement, script analysis, theatre history and literature, directing, playwriting and dramaturgy. Technical and design subjects cover stagecraft, scenic design, lighting, sound, costume, and technical production, while courses in theatre management and arts administration introduce fundraising, producing and audience development.

Study is structured around a combination of lectures, seminars and intensive studio classes, with students participating in departmental productions as performers, designers, stage managers or crew. Most degree pathways include a senior capstone or practicum that brings together creative and professional skills in a major production project.

• Acting and scene study
• Voice, speech and movement
• Theatre history and dramatic literature
• Directing and playwriting
• Scenic, lighting and costume design
• Stagecraft and technical production
• Theatre management and production practicum
• Capstone project or senior showcase

Typical degree structure

Students complete general education requirements alongside major-specific courses. The first years emphasise foundational skills and introductory theory; intermediate years expand specialization through elective options and increased production responsibilities; the final year centres on advanced electives, a capstone project and professional preparation such as auditions, portfolio development or internships.

Entry requirements

Admission requires a high school diploma or equivalent and a satisfactory academic record. Programmes with a performance or design emphasis commonly request an audition or portfolio as part of the application process; applicants should check whether an audition is required for their chosen pathway. International students must demonstrate English language proficiency.

Other typical expectations include:

• Transcript of secondary education and any post‑secondary coursework
• Personal statement describing theatre experience and goals
• Audition (for acting/musical theatre) or portfolio (for design/technical emphasis) and/or interview
• References or letters of recommendation may be requested

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a wide range of careers across the performing arts and related sectors. Common destinations include stage and screen performance, directing, stage management, set/lighting/costume design, technical direction and production management. Many alumni also move into arts administration, community arts programming, theatre education, dramaturgy, playwriting, or further study at graduate level.

The practical training and production experience gained in the programme are also applicable to careers in film and television, event production, marketing and communications for cultural organisations, and entrepreneurship within creative industries. Graduates often build professional networks through regional theatres, internships and collaboration with local arts organisations.

Why study at Colorado State University

Colorado State University offers a theatre programme that balances rigorous studio training with scholarly inquiry, taught by faculty who are active practitioners and researchers. Students benefit from regular production seasons that provide hands‑on roles both onstage and behind the scenes, developing practical skills alongside academic study.

The university’s location provides access to a vibrant regional arts scene and internship opportunities in nearby cities, while campus facilities typically include rehearsal halls, design and technical shops, and performance spaces suitable for large and small productions. The department supports student collaboration across disciplines, opportunities for public performance, and pathways to professional preparation such as audition classes, portfolio development and career advising.