Overview

The Theatre programme at Purdue University provides students with a robust foundation in all aspects of dramatic production within a liberal arts framework. This degree encourages interdisciplinary thinking by combining artistic expression with the technical adaptability found at a leading institution for science and technology. Students engage in a collaborative environment that prepares them for diverse professional landscapes.

Why Theatre at Purdue University?

Purdue University is recognised as one of the top ten most innovative universities in the United States, providing a unique backdrop for theatrical study. The College of Liberal Arts boasts high engagement rates, with over 73% of students completing professional internships to enhance their practical skills. Students benefit from a personalised learning environment that offers significant one-on-one time with expert faculty members.

The institution offers flexible degree pathways, including the "Degree in 3" option for accelerated completion and "Degree Plus," which allows students to pair their artistic studies with a second major in STEM or business. This multidimensional approach ensures that graduates possess a competitive edge in the modern job market by blending creativity with technical proficiency.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 32104 per year
National fee: USD 28794 per year
Local fee: USD 9718 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum covers a broad range of theatrical disciplines, allowing students to specialise in their areas of interest while maintaining a well-rounded understanding of the craft. Modules may include:

Acting
Costume Design
Lighting
Scenic Design
Theatre Appreciation
Survey of Acting

Careers with Theatre

Graduates from this programme are equipped for various roles within the creative industries and beyond, where communication and critical thinking are essential. Many alumni pursue careers as professional actors, playwrights, or stage managers. The skills gained also translate well into management roles, such as promotions or sales managers, and educational positions.

Purdue graduates have secured prestigious placements and advanced study opportunities across the country. Notable destinations include Disney Experiences, The Walt Disney Company, and the Illinois Shakespeare Festival. Others have continued their academic journeys by pursuing Master of Fine Arts degrees in costume design or film and video production at leading institutions.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Scene Design And Technology
Costume Design And Technology
Light Design And Technology
Sound Design And Technology
Theatre Organization And Management
Voice For The Actor
Acting: Acting Technique
History Of Theatre
Directing: Page To Stage

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-11 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-11-01 00:00:00
Starting 2027-08-23 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-15 00:00:00

More details

If you're applying to begin in the spring or summer term, submit application as early as possible prior to the start of the term.

Language

English

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

West Lafayette, United States

Disciplines

Drama View 1338 other Bachelors in Drama in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

110

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Apply Online: $60 Application Fee
Secondary School Grades
Official SAT or ACT Score: SAT or ACT scores with writing is strongly encouraged for international citizens.
Proof of English Proficiency
Letter of Recommendation: Though not required, a letter of recommendation is strongly encouraged, especially for students eligible to be considered for scholarships, for the Honors College or for those who are applying to highly competitive programs.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

32104 USD / year

≈ 32104 USD / year
Out-of-State

28794 USD / year

≈ 28794 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

9718 USD / year

≈ 9718 USD / year

Living costs

West Lafayette

United States

1096 - 1774 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Theatre.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

West Lafayette

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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