Overview

The Theatre - Acting programme at Southern Methodist University provides a comprehensive conservatory environment for students dedicated to the craft of performance. This intensive degree focuses on developing a full-bodied response to stimuli while building a robust foundation in classical and contemporary acting techniques.

During the initial stages of the course, students engage in foundational practice through movement modalities such as Suzuki and Viewpoints. This early training transitions into complex scene work and text analysis, complemented by technical practicum experience in lighting, costume design, and sound. The curriculum is designed to challenge students to devise original performance pieces, integrating physical expression with analytical skills.

Why Theatre - Acting at Southern Methodist University?

Southern Methodist University offers a distinctive teaching approach that combines rigorous conservatory training with professional opportunities. The institution maintains a long-standing partnership with the Tony Award-winning Dallas Theater Center, allowing students to gain professional experience in age-appropriate roles while completing their studies.

The facilities at the Meadows School of the Arts support a wide range of departmental productions and workshops, providing ample casting opportunities from the first year onwards. Students benefit from a digital showcase that reaches industry professionals in major markets, ensuring high visibility upon graduation. The university's alumni network includes recipients of Academy, Tony, Emmy, and Golden Globe awards, reflecting the high standard of training provided.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 30940 per semester
National fee: USD 30940 per semester
Local fee: USD 30940 per semester

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

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Year 1

Movement
Text Analysis
Lighting
Sets
Costumes
Sound
Technical Practicum

Year 2

Acting
Voice
Movement
Theatre History

Year 3 and 4

Acting
Voice
Speech
Movement
Dialects
Stage Combat
Clown Work
Business and Professional Aspects

Careers with Theatre - Acting

Graduates of this programme are prepared for diverse roles across the global entertainment industry. Many alumni secure positions in professional theatre companies, while others transition into successful careers in film and television. The training provided ensures that students are equipped for the competitive nature of the performing arts on both coasts and in international markets.

The comprehensive focus on self-taping and on-camera techniques prepares students for modern casting requirements. Beyond performance, the skills gained in text analysis and professional practice allow graduates to pursue roles in arts management, directing, and creative production. The programme's strong industry links facilitate entry into major markets, supported by a reputation for producing award-winning talent.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Embodied Practice

Light Running/Construction Crew

Lighting Practicum

Scene Running/Construction Crew

Scenery Practicum

Costume Running/Construction Crew

Costume Practicum

Stage Management

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-25 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-15 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

115

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6.5

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Dallas, United States

Disciplines

Visual Arts Art History Drama View 851 other Bachelors in Art History in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

115

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

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

Completed application

$60 nonrefundable application fee

Official high school transcript

Official or self-reported SAT or ACT scores.

Official TOEFL, IELTS, OR Duolingo English Test (DET) results are required for students whose language of instruction is bilingual or not solely in English.

Counselor recommendation

Teacher recommendation (optional)

Extracurricular résumé

Home School Supplement (if applicable)

Review audition and portfolio requirements

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

61880 USD / year

≈ 61880 USD / year
Out-of-State

61880 USD / year

≈ 61880 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

61880 USD / year

≈ 61880 USD / year

Living costs

Dallas

United States

1140 - 1925 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 - Acting.

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

Dallas

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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