University at Buffalo (UB)
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Theatre

Your path in the performing arts starts here. UB’s theatre program is built for individuals who are ready to engage deeply with the creative process, collaborate with a vibrant community and explore the many dimensions of theatre. Whether you're drawn to performing, directing, design or arts criticism, you’ll find a place to grow your skills and expand your perspective—supported by the resources of a world-class research university.

What will I learn?

Do you want a broad, flexible education that covers the history and context of different theater productions? Or perhaps you’d rather specialize in an area like acting, costume design or dramaturgy? Either way, UB has the major for you. And with plenty of plays, musicals, experimental works and more, you’ll also get hands-on, unforgettable experiences as you strengthen your skills in collaboration, communication and critical thinking. 

Theatre BA vs. Acting BFA or Theatre/Design Technology BFA
  • The BA is a flexible major that offers a broad-based education in theatre.
  • The BFA programs are designed for more in-depth study within specific areas.

What can I do outside of class?

Each year, you'll find hundreds of ways to gain experience and make friends. 

  • Productions. Get involved with on-campus musicals, plays and concerts as early as your first year, with opportunities to perform, design, tech and manage shows (many productions also count as classes).
  • Internships. Spend a summer at a theatre, theme park or other venue.
  • Study abroad. Immerse yourself in the culture of some of the world’s greatest cities .
  • Student organizations. Have fun and explore new ideas as you create workshop productions.
  • Research. UB students have worked with faculty and participated in international conferences.
Internships
Study Abroad
Student Clubs
Research

What can I do with a theatre degree?

At UB, our graduates have performed and worked behind the scenes in productions on Broadway, off-Broadway, in Europe and in regional theatres. In fact, you may have seen them on major TV network shows or in movies, including Black Panther. While many of our theatre graduates go on to successful careers in professional theatre, film and television, many others apply the skills and knowledge from their theatre studies to go to law school and MBA programs—or enjoy a career in arts administration, education and many other professional fields. A theatre major is an excellent way for you to develop your strengths in writing, technology, presentation and critical thinking—and fuel your professional success.

At UB, you’ll get valuable skills that you can apply to a broad range of career paths, including:

  • Business. Become a manager, producer, agent, critic, or even an entertainment attorney or journalist.
  • Design and production. Help bring shows to life as a designer, artisan or technician.
  • Education. Inspire the next generation in a school, a studio or at a university.
  • Performance. Many students become an actor, coach, director or playwright.

Who will I learn from?

From Broadway and film to television and regional theatres, our faculty are internationally recognized, highly experienced and well-connected.

They are active actors, directors, technicians and scholars—and are members of the Stage Actors Guild, Actors' Equity Association, SAG-AFTRA, International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, United Scenic Artists and other leading organizations.

Of course, they are also exceptional teachers and mentors, having earned the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching and numerous other honors for teaching and mentoring.

UB also hosts world-class guest artists and alumni who work closely with students in master classes, productions, workshops, seminars and performances, making it even easier to get experience and grow your network.