Program Overview

Theatre Program

Overview

The University at Buffalo's (UB) theatre program is designed for students who want to be surrounded by unmatched creativity and a tight-knit community, while also benefiting from the academic opportunities of a world-class research university.

What Will I Learn?

The theatre program offers a broad, flexible education that covers the history and context of different theater productions. Students can choose to specialize in areas like acting, costume design, or dramaturgy. The program also provides hands-on, unforgettable experiences that strengthen skills in collaboration, communication, and critical thinking.

Theatre BA vs. BFA

• The BA is a flexible major that offers a broad-based education in theater.
• The BFA is designed for more in-depth study within specific areas.

What Can I Do Outside of Class?

Students can gain experience and make friends through various opportunities, including:

• Productions: Get involved with on-campus musicals, plays, and concerts as early as the first year, with opportunities to perform, design, tech, and manage shows.
• Internships: Spend a summer at a theater, 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.

What Can I Do with a Theatre Degree?

UB graduates have performed in productions on Broadway, off-Broadway, in Europe, and in regional theaters. They have also worked in TV and film, including major network shows and movies like "Black Panther." The theatre degree provides valuable skills that can be applied 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, artist, or technician.
• Education: Inspire the next generation in a school, studio, or university.
• Performance: Many students become actors, coaches, directors, or playwrights.

Who Will I Learn From?

The faculty are internationally recognized, highly experienced, and well-connected. They are working as artistic directors, actors, directors, choreographers, designers, and scholars, and are members of industry unions. 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, industry-specific guest artists, including many alumni who work closely with students in master classes, productions, workshops, seminars, and performances.