Portland State University's Theater Arts program cultivates the self-confidence you need to lay the foundation for your professional goals and is for students who are eager to learn with and be a part of a community of fellow artists.
The Bachelor of Arts/Science in Theater Arts provides students with a broad foundation in everything from acting classes to playwriting to costume design. You’ll get hands-on learning through classroom study, studio/laboratory practice, field studies, and our main stage productions. Our outstanding faculty, who are also working professionals, provide one-on-one mentorship in all areas of the program.
Completing this degree will give you the skills in acting, directing, scholarship, or design and technical production to prepare you for graduate study, or to pursue a career as a working professional in theater arts. Our alumni are accepted into top graduate programs and have creative skills that can be used in a wide variety of careers. Join them in this imaginative and collaborative field.
As a theater arts major, you can gain real-world experience in the performing arts by participating in our three major theater productions each year or interning in one of the many theaters downtown. You can also make your theater degree fit your interests and career goals by narrowing your focus once you’ve found what you love.
We are proud to be a national College of Distinction for our commitment to helping students to succeed. At PSU, you will gain the experience and knowledge you need to make a difference in your career and community.
PSU's Theater program is fully accredited by the National Association of Schools of Theater (NAST).
Most of our alumni go on to grad school, professional training, or embark on a career as an actor, technical director, stage manager, writer, or director. Related careers include arts administrator, teacher, and facilitator.
Recent graduates have been accepted to professional training programs including the National Theatre Institute’s Actor Internship Program, The Orchard Project in New York, the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts in London, and the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Others have found work in theater companies across the country and abroad.