Overview

The Musical Theatre programme at Pepperdine University provides a comprehensive foundation for aspiring performers seeking careers in the global entertainment industry. This degree integrates intensive conservatory-style training with a broad academic curriculum to develop versatile and resilient theatre makers.

Students engage in a structured curriculum where they consistently practice at least two of the three essential performance pillars—acting, singing, and dancing—every single semester. This ensures continuous technical growth and helps students maintain the physical and vocal stamina required for professional stage careers.

A distinctive feature of the programme is the partnership with classical singing faculty.

Why Musical Theatre at Pepperdine University?

The institution is consistently recognised as a top-ranked university in California, offering a unique Christian liberal arts environment. Students have access to three distinct performance spaces and participate in four major mainstage productions each year, alongside fully staged operas.

The programme offers a biennial summer international study opportunity in Scotland. Students begin their journey in London before performing new and existing works at the renowned Edinburgh Festival Fringe, gaining invaluable experience on one of the world's most prestigious artistic stages.

Facilities at the University Center for the Arts host over 250 public events annually, providing a professional atmosphere for student growth. Frequent masterclasses with guest artists from the Los Angeles area ensure that students remain connected to current industry standards and networking opportunities.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 71860 per year
National fee: USD 71860 per year
Local fee: USD 71860 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to build a bedrock of understanding in the performing arts. Modules may include:

Acting
Voice
Movement
Text
Design
Dramaturgy
Stagecraft
History
Art as Social Justice
Private Singing Lessons
Dance

Careers with Musical Theatre

Graduates are prepared for diverse roles within the entertainment sector, including musical theatre, film, and television. Alumni have successfully secured positions in Broadway national tours, Off-Broadway productions, and regional theatre companies such as South Coast Repertory Theater.

The programme's focus on "theatre makers" ensures that students are equipped for various professional pathways. Recent graduates have found employment as actors, singers, and ensemble members, while others have pursued advanced studies in prestigious graduate programmes across the country.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Dance for Musical Theatre

Stage Management

Acting for the Camera

Improvisation

Comedic Styles

Stage Directing

Topics in Creative Writing

Stage Directing

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-13 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-10-01 00:00:00
Starting 2027-08-19 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-15 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Malibu Beach, United States

Disciplines

Visual Arts Music Drama View 1635 other Bachelors in Visual Arts 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

120

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

Common Application

$65 Application Fee (Non-Refundable)

Common App Personal Essay

Supplemental Pepperdine Questions

Submit Official High School Transcripts

Submit Official SAT I or ACT Scores (Optional)

Submit One Academic Recommendation

Submit Proof of English Proficiency

Visa Application Process

Interview (optional)

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

71860 USD / year

≈ 71860 USD / year
Out-of-State

71860 USD / year

≈ 71860 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

71860 USD / year

≈ 71860 USD / year

Living costs

Malibu Beach

United States

1100 - 1600 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 Musical 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

Malibu Beach

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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