Case Western Reserve University

What you'll study

The programme balances intensive studio work and rigorous academic study. Core elements typically include advanced acting and movement, text and scene study, directing and production practicum, playwriting and dramaturgy, and courses in theatre history and dramatic literature. Students also study technical theatre disciplines such as scenic, lighting and costume design, stagecraft, and sound for performance, and take seminars on theatre theory, criticism and research methods.

Learning is delivered through a mix of conservatory-style studio classes, small seminars, workshops, directed production assignments and a capstone project or thesis. Students can expect to participate in public productions, collaborative interdisciplinary projects and internships with professional companies in the Cleveland arts community. Electives and directed study allow specialisation in areas such as actor training, contemporary performance practices, design technology, community-engaged theatre or dramaturgical research.

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally hold a bachelor's degree in theatre, performance, or a related field; applicants with substantial professional experience in theatre may also be considered. Admissions typically require a statement of purpose outlining artistic and academic goals, an academic transcript, and two or three letters of recommendation.

For practice-focused pathways, applicants are usually asked to submit a portfolio or performance materials—this may include a recorded audition, video excerpts of performance work, samples of design or writing, or a directing portfolio, depending on the chosen concentration. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency to the university's standard. Some pathways may request an interview or live audition as part of the selection process.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a range of careers across the theatre and performing-arts sector. Typical roles include actor, director, stage manager, dramaturg, playwright, designer (scenic, lighting, costume, sound), movement director, and technical supervisor. Many alumni also move into arts administration, producing, education and community arts, or into research and doctoral study in theatre and performance studies.

The programme’s combination of practical training and scholarly study also prepares students for freelance careers and for roles that require interdisciplinary collaboration, such as immersive and devised theatre, performance for camera, and creative projects in museums, festivals and cultural organisations.

Why study at Case Western Reserve University

Case Western Reserve University offers theatre students access to both rigorous academic resources and a vibrant regional theatre ecosystem. The university has collaborative connections with professional companies in Cleveland, providing opportunities for internships, co-productions and mentorship from industry practitioners. On-campus facilities support a wide range of production work, from studio black boxes to larger performance venues, and students benefit from cross-disciplinary links across the arts, humanities and professional schools for areas such as arts management, digital media and community engagement.

Students choose Case Western Reserve for its combination of conservatory-style training and scholarly depth, small cohorts with close faculty mentorship, and the chance to build professional networks in a city with an active and diverse performing-arts scene.