Susquehanna University

What you'll study

The Drama major at Susquehanna blends practical studio courses with classroom study. Students typically take core classes in acting, voice and movement, scene study, script analysis, and directing alongside technical courses in stagecraft, scenic design, lighting, sound, and costume. Coursework in theatre history, dramatic literature, playwriting and dramaturgy provides an academic grounding, while production practicum and lab assignments give sustained, hands‑on experience.

• Studio and performance: acting technique, voice and speech, movement, audition preparation, rehearsal methodologies.
• Production and design: scenic construction, lighting and sound design, costume methods, stage management, technical direction.
• Academic study: theatre history, dramatic literature, play analysis, theatre criticism, playwriting.
• Capstone and practicum: senior projects or thesis, ensemble productions, crew leadership roles and production internships.
• Complementary work: opportunities to pair theatre study with courses in music, dance, film, English or education as part of a liberal‑arts curriculum.

Entry requirements

Prospective students apply through the university admissions process and submit academic transcripts and a school or personal statement. Theatre applicants are often encouraged or required to audition or submit a performance portfolio to be considered for performance‑focused training; applicants interested in design, technical theatre or production roles may submit a resume, photographs of design work or a technical portfolio. Schools/college letters of recommendation and evidence of extracurricular theatre experience are advantageous. International applicants should provide equivalent academic documentation and proof of English proficiency where required.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Drama programme pursue a range of careers across the performing arts and related sectors. Common paths include professional acting, directing, stage and production management, lighting and sound design, scenic or costume design, and technical theatre roles. Alumni also move into arts administration, dramaturgy, education, community arts programming, and production roles in film, television or events. The degree also provides a strong foundation for graduate study in theatre, performance, education or arts leadership.

Why study at Susquehanna University

Susquehanna offers small class sizes and close faculty mentorship within a liberal‑arts environment, allowing theatre students to combine rigorous studio training with broad academic study. The department produces a regular season of student and faculty‑directed productions that give majors multiple opportunities to perform and work on crews each year. Students benefit from access to campus production facilities, design and scene shops, and opportunities for internships and regional professional connections in nearby cultural centres. Cross‑disciplinary collaboration, study‑away options and individualized advising support students preparing for professional careers or further study in the arts.