A degree in Theatre and Drama from the University of Wisconsin–Madison opens doors to a range of exciting careers in the theatre and entertainment industries, as well as other fields.
The department combines the best of a broad-based undergraduate education with specified training in many aspects of the performing arts - including acting, design, dramaturgy, technology, and theatre engineering. Students learn from faculty and staff who are professional artists, technicians, and scholars working actively in their fields, in an environment that is both supportive and challenging - combining one-on-one mentoring, small classes, and opportunities for applied work in production. Theatre students develop skills in communication, collaboration, and critical thinking, along with cultural and creative competencies which prepare them for successful careers in the professional theatre and entertainment industry, gaming, and education as well as for graduate studies and preparation for such fields as law, communications, business, and more.
The centerpiece of the department’s curriculum is its production program, chiefly the University Theatre (UT) program, as well as a Second Stage program supporting experimental and student work. Through a year-round season of productions, the Department of Theatre and Drama’s University Theatre serves as a vibrant arena for experiential and collaborative learning, engaging undergraduate students in embodied and hands-on work, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge in performance, technical theatre, and design for audiences on campus and locally.
Theatre and Drama majors pursue a Bachelor of Science degree through the School of Education, with the flexibility to informally explore such areas as design, stage management, directing, acting, and theatre technology. For students with a specific interest in acting, the department offers the Acting Option, a highly structured program designed to provide a deeper understanding of the craft and professional skills needed for a career in acting or advanced theatre studies. Students in this option receive personalized mentoring and performance reviews at the end of each semester. Upon completion, this option is formally noted on the student's transcript.
Admission to the Acting Option is by audition only. Auditions are held at the midpoint of each semester and require the completion of specific prerequisite courses. Acting students are encouraged to audition for University Theatre (UT) productions to gain valuable performance experience and contribute to the vibrant season of University Theatre. For more information on the Acting Option and the audition process, students should contact the department advisor.
Students with specific interest in design, technology, and management are encouraged to explore one area of interest or several, with several opportunities for applied work including designing for the mainstage. Students are encouraged to participate in the production program as assistant directors and dramaturges and to produce their own work in our mentored Second Stage program or in the experimental black-box laboratory.
Non-majors who wish to explore theatre in both theory and practice are welcome to enroll in our courses and participate in productions. The Certificate in Theatre offers students from all disciplines the opportunity to gain a structured and meaningful theatre experience. This certificate has attracted students from a wide variety of fields, including law, business, medicine, art, dance, science, and social work. These students are drawn to theatre for its ability to enhance communication skills, improve problem-solving abilities, and foster visual acumen—skills that are valuable across all professions.