Northern Arizona University

What you'll study

The programme blends practical studio work, production practicum and academic study. Core areas typically include acting techniques, voice and movement, script analysis, theatre history, dramaturgy and directing. Students also study technical fields such as stagecraft, scenic design, costume construction, lighting and sound design, and stage management.

Coursework is delivered through a mix of classroom seminars, workshops and ensemble labs, and a strong emphasis is placed on work in fully mounted productions. Typical modules and experiences include:

• Acting I–IV — scene study, improvisation, character work and audition technique.
• Voice and Movement — vocal health, projection, dialect work and physical theatre.
• Script Analysis & Dramaturgy — close reading of plays, adaptation and contextual research.
• Theatre History and Literature — surveys of dramatic traditions from classical to contemporary.
• Technical Theatre — rigging, scenic construction, stage lighting and sound systems.
• Design Studios — scenic, costume and lighting design with portfolio development.
• Stage Management and Production Practicum — hands-on roles in mounting departmental productions.
• Capstone Project or Senior Showcase — a culminating performance, production or research project.

Students complete general education requirements alongside major coursework, and may choose electives or a minor to broaden their skills—common choices include film, music, education or arts administration. Opportunities for internships, community partnerships and study abroad add professional contexts to the training.

Entry requirements

Admission is to the university followed by declaration of the theatre major; specific entry into performance or design tracks often requires additional assessment. Typical requirements are:

• A recognised secondary school diploma or equivalent.
• Completion of college-preparatory coursework in English and the arts is preferred.
• For acting and musical-theatre emphases: an audition before faculty demonstrating range, technique and preparation. Auditions may include monologues and prepared songs where appropriate.
• For design and technical emphases: a portfolio or practical assessment showcasing previous work in scenic, costume, lighting, sound or technical production is usually requested.
• A personal statement explaining your theatre experience and goals; letters of recommendation are recommended.
• Transfer applicants should supply transcripts and a record of coursework; credit for prior practical experience or technical training may be considered.
• International applicants must meet university English-language proficiency requirements.

Admissions processes and audition/portfolio instructions are administered by the theatre faculty; prospective students should consult the department for audition repertoire lists and portfolio guidelines.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a broad range of theatre, media and education careers. Common pathways include:

• Professional actor in theatre, film, television and commercial work.
• Stage manager, production manager or technical director in regional and professional theatres.
• Scenic, costume, lighting and sound designer for theatre, live events and themed entertainment.
• Directing, dramaturgy and play development roles.
• Arts administration, producing and audience development in cultural organisations.
• Teaching in community arts programmes, youth theatre or secondary education (additional certification may be required for public-school teaching).
• Further study such as an MFA in performance or design, or graduate degrees in theatre studies, directing or arts leadership.

Hands-on production experience, a polished portfolio or demo reel, and internship placements are key to graduate employability in this field.

Why study at Northern Arizona University

Northern Arizona University offers a theatre programme with a strong emphasis on experiential learning and faculty who maintain professional connections in regional theatre. Students benefit from multiple departmental performance spaces and on-campus shops for scenic and costume work, enabling real-world technical training.

The university’s location provides a lively regional arts scene and opportunities for collaboration with community theatres, festivals and cultural organisations. Class sizes are typically small, allowing close mentorship from faculty and frequent leadership chances on productions. The programme also encourages interdisciplinary work across music, film and education, and supports internships that connect students to professional networks.

Overall, the programme is suited to students seeking a balance of practical production experience, academic context and pathways into professional or graduate-level training in theatre and performance.