Overview

The Theatre programme at the University of South Dakota provides a rigorous professional foundation for students aspiring to careers in the performing arts and technical production. This Bachelor of Fine Arts degree combines intensive classroom instruction with extensive practical experience in state-of-the-art facilities. Students choose from specialised pathways to tailor their education toward specific artistic and professional goals.

Why Theatre at the University of South Dakota?

The university hosts the only College of Fine Arts in the state with full NAST accreditation for its advanced degree offerings. Students gain access to the Wayne S. Knutson Theatre, a 400-seat venue equipped with modern technology, and a flexible Arena Theatre for intimate studio performances. The department maintains prestigious partnerships with the National Music Museum and the Black Hills Playhouse, a professional summer stock theatre where students can gain industry experience.

A distinctive feature of the curriculum is the New York Senior Showcase. This culminating event allows acting and musical theatre majors to perform directly for industry professionals, agents, and casting directors in New York City. Additionally, the Student Theatre Cooperative offers a platform for undergraduates to produce original works, fostering leadership and management skills alongside their creative development.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 13299 per year
National fee: USD 13299 per year
Local fee: USD 9687 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to provide both broad theatrical knowledge and deep technical expertise. Modules may include:

Acting
Design Theatre
Technology
Musical Theatre
Theatre Studies
Dance
Movement Dynamics
Stage Combat
Mask

Careers with Theatre

Graduates from the University of South Dakota have successfully transitioned into high-profile roles within the global entertainment industry. Alumni have secured representation with top New York agencies and appeared in Broadway productions such as "The Book of Mormon." Others have found success in national touring companies, commercial work, and television appearances on networks like HBO.

The programme prepares students for a diverse range of professional paths, including:

Professional Performer
Set and Costume Designer
Theatre Technician
Choreographer
Stage Manager
Arts Administrator

Through regional auditions and conferences in cities like Boston, St. Louis, and New York, students establish the professional networks necessary for long-term career success in the arts.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Acting

Technical Theatre

Voice & Movement

Stage Costuming

Make-Up

Play Analysis

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-13 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-10-15 00:00:00 , International
Starting 2027-08-25 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-06-01 00:00:00 , International

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Vermillion, United States

Disciplines

Visual Arts Drama View 1338 other Bachelors in Drama in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

2.6

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

105

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

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IELTS

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Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

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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

Official high school (secondary school) transcript with grade point average equivalent to 2.6 on a 4.0 scale.
Demonstrate English language proficiency by meeting one of the following.
Application Fee
Passport
Official Statement of Finances

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

13299 USD / year

≈ 13299 USD / year
Out-of-State

13299 USD / year

≈ 13299 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

9687 USD / year

≈ 9687 USD / year

Living costs

Vermillion

United States

1024 - 1781 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

Vermillion

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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