University of San Diego

What you'll study

This undergraduate programme offers a balanced curriculum of practical studio and performance training alongside academic courses in art history, theory and criticism. Students typically choose a primary area of emphasis—such as visual arts (painting, drawing, sculpture), theatre (acting, directing, stagecraft), music (performance, composition) or dance—while taking core courses that introduce methods across disciplines.

• Studio and performance courses: foundational and advanced studio classes, ensemble rehearsals, scene study, voice and movement, composition workshops and technical theatre practices.
• Theory and history: courses in art history, theatre history, music history, aesthetics and contemporary arts criticism to provide intellectual context for creative work.
• Professional practice: portfolio and audition preparation, production practicum, arts administration, grant-writing and exhibition or performance curation.
• Capstone experience: a senior project that typically culminates in a public exhibition, recital, production or research paper integrating practical skills and scholarship.
• Electives and cross-discipline study: opportunities to take courses in film, digital media, design, interdisciplinary collaboration and related humanities subjects.

Structure

The programme is offered as a liberal-arts major within the university, combining general education requirements with major-specific coursework and practicum credits. Students often complete progressive sequences in their chosen emphasis and are encouraged to pursue minors or double majors. Hands-on learning is emphasised through studio time, performances, community projects and internships with local cultural institutions.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary school diploma or equivalent. Typical academic requirements include satisfactory high-school grades with a background in arts or relevant coursework recommended. Admission may require a supplementary portfolio or recorded audition for certain emphasis areas; applicants should check the specific submission guidelines for visual work or performance pieces.

• Academic qualifications: completion of secondary education with evidence of preparedness for university-level study.
• Creative materials: portfolio (visual art) or audition recording/live audition (music, theatre, dance) where required by the chosen emphasis.
• Supporting documents: personal statement or artistic statement, letters of recommendation and a résumé or list of creative activities are commonly requested.
• International applicants: proof of English language proficiency through recognised tests or equivalent evidence if English is not the first language.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for a wide range of careers in the arts and cultural sectors, as well as related fields that value creative thinking and communication. Many students also go on to graduate study in fine arts, theatre, music, arts administration or education.

• Professional performer (actor, musician, dancer) or visual artist
• Arts educator or community arts practitioner
• Curator, gallery or museum staff
• Production manager, stage technician or set/costume designer
• Arts administrator, development and fundraising, marketing for arts organisations
• Creative roles in media, design and digital content production

Why study at University of San Diego

The University of San Diego pairs a liberal-arts foundation with hands-on artistic training, encouraging interdisciplinary work and community engagement. Small class sizes and close faculty mentoring allow for individualised feedback on creative projects, while performance and exhibition opportunities provide regular public presentation experience. The university's location in the San Diego region offers access to a vibrant cultural scene—museums, theatres, music venues and arts organisations—supporting internships, collaborations and professional networking. Additionally, the institution’s emphasis on ethical leadership and community service complements artistic practice with civic engagement and socially responsive work.