What is a theater major?
A theater major is all about storytelling—on stage, behind the scenes, and even in the classroom. It’s a degree that dives deep into the art of performance, production, and dramatic literature. Whether you’re drawn to acting, directing, stage design, or playwriting, this major helps you develop the skills to bring stories to life.
You’ll study everything from classical plays to contemporary scripts, and you’ll get hands-on experience through performances, workshops, and internships. It’s a creative, collaborative field that’s perfect for students who love expressing themselves and working with others to create something meaningful.
Specializations and concentrations for theater majors
Theater majors often choose a concentration to focus their studies. Popular options include:
- Acting: Training in voice, movement, and character development.
- Directing: Learning how to lead productions and interpret scripts.
- Playwriting: Crafting original works for the stage.
- Stage design and tech: Set, lighting, costume, and sound design.
- Musical theater: Combining acting, singing, and dancing.
Degree requirements for theater majors
Most theater programs offer a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA). You’ll take core classes in theater history, acting, and production, plus electives based on your interests. Expect to participate in productions and complete a capstone or senior project.
Common double majors and minors to pair with theater
Theater pairs well with other majors and minors, especially those that enhance storytelling or offer practical skills:
Skills I'll learn studying theater
Theater majors build a wide range of transferable skills:
- Public speaking and presentation
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Creative problem-solving
- Time management and discipline
- Emotional intelligence and empathy
These skills are valuable in many careers—even outside the arts.
Popular careers for theater majors
While many theater grads pursue performance careers, others find success in related fields:
- Actor or performer
- Director or producer
- Drama teacher or professor
- Stage manager or technician
- Casting director
- Arts administrator
- Voiceover artist
- Playwright or screenwriter
How much will I earn with a theater degree?
Theater careers vary widely in pay, especially in performance roles. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median hourly wage for actors was $23.33 in May 2024. Keep in mind that many acting jobs are part-time or project-based, and income can fluctuate.
Other roles like producers and directors earn a median annual salary of $83,480, while music directors and composers average $63,670. Your earnings will depend on your role, location, experience, and whether you work in theater, film, TV, or education.
Notable schools for theater majors
Some top schools known for their theater programs include:
Use the Scout College Search tool to explore more schools that fit your goals.
Scholarships for theater majors
Paying for college can be a challenge, but there are scholarships specifically for theater students. You can start by checking out Scholarships by Major, which includes options for theater arts. The Scholly Scholarships platform helps match you with awards based on your profile, and the $2,000 No Essay Scholarship is a quick and easy way to apply for funding. For theater-specific opportunities, visit Scholarships for Theater Majors.
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