Overview

The Theater Arts programme at Portland State University provides students with a versatile foundation in performance, technical production, and dramatic scholarship. This undergraduate course is designed for individuals eager to join a collaborative community of artists while building the self-confidence necessary for professional success.

Students engage in a curriculum that balances theoretical classroom study with intensive studio and laboratory practice. By participating in main stage productions and field studies, learners gain practical experience under the guidance of expert faculty members who are active professionals in the industry. The programme is fully accredited by the National Association of Schools of Theater.

Why Theater Arts at Portland State University?

Portland State University offers unique opportunities for real-world experience through three major theatrical productions held annually. Students benefit from the university's prime location, which facilitates internships with numerous professional theaters in the downtown area. This proximity to the local arts scene allows for significant networking and hands-on skill development.

The institution is recognised as a national College of Distinction, reflecting its commitment to student success and community impact. Learners have the flexibility to tailor their degree to specific career goals, narrowing their focus as they discover their individual passions within the broad field of dramatic arts.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 34599 per year
National fee: USD 34599 per year
Local fee: USD 12999 per year

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

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Acting
Playwriting
Costume Design
Directing
Technical Production
Theater History

Careers with Theater Arts

Graduates are well-prepared for advanced graduate study or immediate entry into the professional arts sector. Alumni frequently secure roles as actors, technical directors, stage managers, writers, and directors. The creative and collaborative skills gained also support careers in arts administration, teaching, and facilitation.

Recent graduates have successfully gained admission to prestigious international training programmes, including the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts in London and the National Theatre Institute. Others have showcased their work at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival or secured positions with theater companies across the globe.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Stagecraft

Technical Theater Production

Design for Theater

Script Analysis

Acting: Process

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-09-30 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-08-01 00:00:00 , National
- Apply before 2026-09-01 00:00:00 , International
Starting 2027-01-06 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-05 00:00:00
Starting 2027-03-31 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-03-05 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

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Credits

180 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Portland, United States

Disciplines

Visual Arts Drama View 1336 other Bachelors in Drama in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

2.5

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

110

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

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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

You must have a cumulative (overall) grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.5 when converted to the U.S. 4.0 grading scale.
Meet the English Language Proficiency Requirement. You may be admitted to Portland State University and an Intensive English Language Program (IELP) pathway if you do not meet PSU's English Language Proficiency Requirement. Learn more about PSU’s English language 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

34599 USD / year

≈ 34599 USD / year
Out-of-State

34599 USD / year

≈ 34599 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

12999 USD / year

≈ 12999 USD / year

Living costs

Portland

United States

1271 - 2262 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 Theater Arts.

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

Portland

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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