Overview

The Theatre Arts programme at San Diego State University provides a dynamic environment where students can master the complexities of contemporary performance and production. This undergraduate course is structured to involve participants in every facet of the craft, from acting and musical theatre to technical design and stage management. By blending traditional techniques with modern technology, the school ensures that graduates are prepared for the evolving demands of the professional world.

Why Theatre Arts at San Diego State University?

Choosing this programme means joining a community that prioritises interdisciplinary collaboration and professional growth. Following a strategic merger with the television and film departments, the curriculum encourages students to work across different media, reflecting the blurred boundaries of the modern entertainment sector.

The university maintains strong links with regional professional theatre companies, providing a bridge between educational training and the industry. Students benefit from regular visits by industry professionals and have access to specialised facilities, including the Alicia Annas Historical Costume Collection and the Musical Theatre Archive. Furthermore, the institution is recognised for its value, combining high-quality instruction with outcomes that employers highly prize, such as creative problem-solving and effective time management.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 14130 per year
National fee: USD 14130 per year
Local fee: USD 6838 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to provide a solid foundation in dramatic theory while allowing for specialised elective exploration. Modules may include:

Cinema as Art
Voice and Movement
Heritage of Storytelling
Acting
American Musical on Stage & Screen
Design and Technology for Theatre
Script Analysis
Musical Theatre Performance
Theatre of Diversity

Careers with Theatre Arts

Graduates are equipped with a versatile toolkit that extends beyond the stage, making them attractive candidates for various roles within the creative arts and beyond. The programme focuses on developing skills in collaboration, independent thinking, and communication, which are essential for success in the competitive entertainment landscape. Alumni often find opportunities in professional theatre companies, film and television production, and arts administration. The training provided helps students navigate diverse career paths, including performing, directing, stage management, and technical production. By fostering entrepreneurial thinking, the university ensures that its graduates can adapt to the shifting requirements of the global job market.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Cinema
The Art of Theatre
Voice and Movement
Heritage of Storytelling
Acting

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-24 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-04-01 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00 , National

Language

English

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

San Diego, United States

Disciplines

Drama View 1338 other Bachelors in Drama 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

105

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

National

Admission application through the Cal State Apply website (online)

Unofficial transcripts

Your Social Security Number, if you have one.

Your citizenship status.

Credit card. Application fees are due at the time of submission and are paid by credit card.

Annual income. If you are a dependent, then report your parents income. If you are independent, then report your income.

Your parent's employment background and two recommendations. This applies only if you are applying to the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP).

International

Completion of high school/secondary level

SAT/ACT Tests

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

14130 USD / year

≈ 14130 USD / year
Out-of-State

14130 USD / year

≈ 14130 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

6838 USD / year

≈ 6838 USD / year

Living costs

San Diego

United States

1400 - 2455 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 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

San Diego

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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