Great Majors
for Students Interested in
the Performing Arts

For students who nurture a love for the performing arts, the selection of a college major plays a pivotal role in shaping their artistic pursuits. In this blog post, we explore an array of great majors tailored for those who are passionate about the performing arts. From theater to dance to music and beyond, we delve into the academic avenues that not only cultivate artistic excellence but also lay the foundation for a fulfilling career on the stage or behind the scenes.

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Theater Arts

A major in theater arts provides a holistic understanding of the performing arts, encompassing acting, directing, and technical aspects of theater production. It is an excellent choice for students seeking a major that offers a broad foundation in theatrical expression and combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience gained through performances and collaborations. Some of the top institutions of higher learning that offer this major are the Tisch School of the Arts at New York University and the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA).

Acting

A major in acting is tailor-made for students with a passion for the stage and screen. This major focuses on performance skills, character development, and the art of dramatic storytelling. Some of the most renowned acting programs are offered at the Juilliard School and Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA).

Theater Design & Production

For students interested in the behind-the-scenes magic of theater, a major in theater design & production is an ideal choice. This major equips students with skills in set design, lighting, sound, and costume design, which are crucial for bringing theatrical productions to life. Leading institutions like Carnegie Mellon University and the David Geffen School of Drama at Yale University offer majors in this fascinating field.

Dance

A dance major is perfect for those dedicated to the art of movement and expression. Students who major in this field explore various dance forms, techniques, and choreography, developing a strong physical and artistic foundation. Colleges such as the Juilliard School and the University of North Carolina offer exemplary dance programs, providing students with rigorous training and a plethora of performance opportunities.

Music

Majoring in music offers a versatile education for those passionate about vocal or instrumental performance, music theory, and composition. As such, it is an excellent choice for students seeking a deep understanding of musical expression. Esteemed colleges that provide top-notch music programs include the University of California, Berkeley and Northwestern University.

Arts Administration

Arts administration majors focus on the business side of the performing arts, preparing for roles in management, marketing, and fundraising within artistic organizations. This major is ideal for students who are interested in supporting the arts through organizational leadership. Colleges like Columbia University and the New School offer exemplary arts administration programs.

Arts Education

A major in arts education is perfect for those passionate about teaching the performing arts. It combines artistic expertise with pedagogical skills, preparing students for rewarding careers as educators in schools and community settings. Boston University and Teachers College at Columbia University offer renowned arts education programs that emphasize the importance of both artistic proficiency and effective teaching methods.

Musical Theater

Majoring in musical theater provides specialized training for students interested in the fusion of acting, singing, and dancing, preparing them for careers in the vibrant world of musical productions. The University of Michigan and Carnegie Mellon University are among the top institutions that offer outstanding musical theater programs, nurturing the next generation of Broadway performers.