Oregon State University

What you'll study

The programme combines practical studio work with intellectual study of drama and performance. Core areas typically include acting, voice and movement, scene study, script analysis, theatre history and dramatic literature. Technical and design courses cover scenic design, lighting, sound, costume, prop construction, stagecraft and production management. Students also take directing, playwriting and rehearsal practicum modules.

Coursework is organised around a mixture of lectures, seminar discussion, laboratory classes and production assignments. Students are expected to participate in departmental productions throughout their degree, gaining experience in front of and behind the curtain. Upper‑level work commonly culminates in a senior capstone project or portfolio that demonstrates proficiency in a chosen specialism.

• Acting and performance techniques
• Voice, speech and movement for actors
• Text and script analysis, dramatic theory
• Scenic, lighting and costume design
• Technical theatre and stage management
• Directing and ensemble work
• Production practicum and collaborative projects
• Electives in playwriting, dramaturgy, immersive theatre and related fields

Structure

The degree typically follows a combination of general education requirements, theatre core modules and electives or concentrations. Practical courses run each term in parallel with academic seminars, and students build experience through credit-bearing production assignments and internship opportunities with campus and community theatre companies.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a secondary school diploma or equivalent and present an academic transcript as part of their application. Admissions will consider the overall academic record, a personal statement outlining interest in theatre, and academic or character references.

Because this is a practical discipline, many applicants are required to attend an audition or submit a performance video for acting pathways. Applicants focusing on design, technical theatre or production are normally asked to submit a portfolio of relevant work or a documentation of prior projects. Transfer students should provide college transcripts and, where appropriate, evidence of production experience. International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements as set by the university.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for a wide range of roles in the performing arts and related sectors. Career paths commonly include professional acting, stage and production management, lighting and set design, costume design, sound design and technical direction. Alumni also work in directing, dramaturgy, playwriting, community arts programming, arts education and cultural administration.

The skills developed—collaboration, creative problem solving, project management and communication—are transferable to film and television production, event management, public relations and other creative industries. Many graduates continue into postgraduate study (MFA, MA) or pursue specialised professional training.

Why study at Oregon State University

Oregon State offers a programme that emphasises experiential learning within an active production schedule, giving students regular opportunities to develop skills in performance and technical areas. The department supports student work with dedicated rehearsal spaces, scene and costume shops and technical labs that mirror professional practice.

Students benefit from faculty who are educators and practising theatre professionals, interdisciplinary collaboration with film, music and communication programmes, and connections to regional theatre organisations for internships and seasonal work. The university’s location provides a balance of campus‑based resources and access to cultural scenes in the wider region, supporting both academic study and real‑world theatre experience.