Theatre

Your life is not a dress rehearsal. This is your chance to follow your dreams and do what you love. UB’s theatre program is for anyone who wants to be surrounded by the unmatched creativity and tight-knit community that you’ll find in the theater, along with all the academic opportunities you’ll get from a world-class research university. Whether you crave the spotlight—or you prefer being in the director’s chair, behind the scenes or writing about the arts—there’s a place for you here. 

What will I learn?

Do you want a broad, flexible education that covers the history and context of different theater productions? Or perhaps you’d rather specialize in an area like acting, costume design or dramaturgy? Either way, UB has the major for you. And with plenty of plays, musicals, experimental works and more, you’ll also get hands-on, unforgettable experiences as you strengthen your skills in collaboration, communication and critical thinking. 

Theatre BA vs. BFA
  • The BA is a flexible major that offers a broad-based education in theater.
  • The BFA is designed for more in-depth study within specific areas.

What can I do outside of class?

Each year, you'll find hundreds of ways to gain experience and make friends. 

  • Productions. Get involved with on-campus musicals, plays and concerts as early as your first year, with opportunities to perform, design, tech and manage shows.
  • Internships. Spend a summer at a theater, theme park or other venue.
  • Study abroad. Immerse yourself in the culture of some of the world’s greatest cities .
  • Student organizations. Have fun and explore new ideas as you create workshop productions.
  • Research. UB students have worked with faculty and participated in international conferences.
Internships
Study Abroad
Student Clubs
Research

What can I do with a theatre degree?

Are you (or your parents) a bit nervous about a theatre degree? At UB, our graduates have performed in productions on Broadway, off-Broadway, in Europe and in regional theaters. In fact, you may have seen them on major TV network shows or in movies, including "Black Panther."

At UB, you'll get valuable skills that you can apply to a broad range of career paths, including:

  • Business. Become a manager, producer, agent, critic, or even an entertainment attorney or journalist.
  • Design and production. Help bring shows to life as a designer, artist or technician.
  • Education. Inspire the next generation in a school, a studio or at a university
  • Performance. Many students become an actor, coach, director or playwright.

Who will I learn from?

From Broadway to LORT theatre, in film and on television, our faculty are internationally recognized, highly experienced and well-connected.

They are working as artistic directors, actors, directors, choreographers, designers and scholars—and are members of the Stage Directors and Choreographers Society, Actors’ Equity Association, SAG-AFTRA, International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, United Scenic Artists and other industry unions.

Of course, they are also exceptional teachers and mentors, having earned the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching and numerous other honors for teaching and mentoring.

UB also hosts world-class, industry specific guest artists including many alumni who work closely with students in master classes, productions, workshops, seminars and performances, supporting you to grow your network while still in school.

Admissions

Financial Aid

Student Guide