Theater and Performance Studies

The Bachelor of Arts in Theater and Performance Studies at Georgetown University offers students a comprehensive and immersive exploration of theatrical arts, performance practices, and the cultural, political, and social contexts that influence performance. This interdisciplinary program is designed to cultivate both critical understanding and creative skills, preparing students for a variety of careers in theater, performance, arts administration, education, and beyond. Throughout the course of study, students engage with a diverse range of topics including dramatic literature, theater history, performance theory, acting techniques, directing, dramaturgy, and production methods. The curriculum emphasizes analytical thinking, effective communication, and collaborative work, reflecting the collaborative nature of the performing arts.

Students have opportunities to participate in seminars, workshops, and production projects that develop their practical skills and foster artistic growth. The program encourages critical engagement with issues of identity, politics, and social justice as they relate to performance practices and theatrical narratives. In addition to coursework, students can benefit from internships, performances, and collaborations with local theaters and arts organizations, providing real-world experience and professional networking opportunities. Faculty members are accomplished scholars and practitioners who inspire students through mentorship and innovative teaching. The department also supports study abroad programs, allowing students to explore performance traditions across different cultures and regions.

Graduates of the Theater and Performance Studies program are equipped with a solid foundation for graduate studies, theater careers, arts administration, or further academic research. The curriculum is structured to nurture both analytical intellect and creative expression, making it an ideal preparation for students passionate about producing meaningful, impactful, and culturally relevant performances. With access to Washington, D.C.’s rich cultural landscape, students are uniquely positioned to connect theoretical knowledge with practical application, engaging with a vibrant community of artists and scholars. Overall, the program aims to develop well-rounded, critically engaged artists and scholars who can contribute thoughtfully and creatively to the vibrant field of theater and performance.

• SAT - Georgetown's SAT code is 5244. Georgetown only considers the critical reading and math portions of the SAT, not the writing section. If an applicant takes the SAT more than once, the admissions committees will consider the highest critical reading score and the highest math score from multiple test sessions when reviewing the application.
• ACT - Georgetown's ACT code is 0668. Georgetown accepts the ACT in lieu of the SAT. Applicants who take the ACT more than once will have their highest composite score considered in the evaluation process. The optional writing section on the ACT is not required, nor is the writing subscore used in the application review process.
• SAT Subject Tests - It is strongly recommended that all candidates, whether they have taken the SAT Reasoning Test or the ACT, submit three SAT Subject Tests scores. The scores from writing portion on the SAT Reasoning Test and the optional writing portion of the ACT will not be used in place of a Subject Test.
• TOEFL - Georgetown's TOEFL code is 5244. TOEFL is recommended for candidates studying in non-U.S. educational systems and whose native language is not English. Georgetown also does accept results from the IELTS. Please contact either the Educational Testing Service (ETS) or the American College Testing Program (ACT) for details about this exam.
• If you will graduate from a school with a final examination such as the British A-Levels, Cambridge Pre-U, German Abitaur, French Baccalaureat, or International Baccalaureate, you will need to submit both Projected and Final results. These should be included in the Secondary School Report sent from your college counselor, teacher or the Head of School.
• A cover letter outlining your specific interest in the Department, your relevant experience, why you are applying to Georgetown, and how you envision being involved in the Performing Arts at Georgetown (e.g. as a Theater & Performance Studies major? minor? supplemental academic courses and productions?  co-curricular projects only?)  Please be explicit in the cover letter about any other materials you are submitting.  If you are interested in submitting materials for more than one discipline, craft your single cover letter accordingly addressing your multiple interests.
• Brief work samples (i.e. 5 minutes total). Please provide clear information on what you are submitting (your name, title of work, role etc.) Videos can be taken from actual productions or can be monologues recorded specifically as “auditions.”  If you are a playwright or designer you may also provide links to portfolio samples or short script excerpts.
• A resume, no more than two pages in length, including theatrical experience (be specific about venue (i.e. professional, school etc.)  Please outline any private instruction received, productions appeared in, and any technical experience you may have (stage management, lighting design, sound engineering, set design, costume design, etc.).

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

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Scholarships

Georgetown University is Need-Blind for all applicants.

Admitted students who have requested financial aid and are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents will be considered for a very limited number of need-based scholarships. To be considered for one of these scholarships, the student/applicant will need to indicate their intent to apply for financial aid on the Application for Undergraduate Admission and should submit a CSS/Financial Aid Profile online at http://www.collegeboard.com. For further details, please see the Office of Student Financial Services website.

Whether admitted either under our Early Action or Regular Decision review periods, all candidates for financial aid will be notified about their eligibility for aid, their financial aid awards or about missing documents during the first week of April.

Please note that we are now using the CSS/Financial Aid Profile in place of the International Student Financial Aid form.

Theater and Performance Studies at Georgetown University is a comprehensive program designed to explore the history, theory, and practice of theater and performance across different cultures and periods. The program emphasizes critical analysis, creative expression, and cultural understanding, equipping students with a broad range of skills applicable in various careers related to the arts, academia, and media. Students engage in coursework that covers theatrical history, dramatic literature, performance theory, and production techniques. The curriculum often includes opportunities for practical experience in staging productions, acting, directing, and designing, allowing students to develop their creative and technical abilities.

The program encourages interdisciplinary study, integrating insights from literature, history, anthropology, and media studies, fostering a holistic understanding of performance in its cultural context. Students are typically encouraged to participate in internships, performance projects, and collaborations with professional theater companies or academic research initiatives to enhance their practical skills and industry connections. The faculty members are often renowned scholars and practitioners in the fields of theater, performance art, and cultural studies, guiding students through rigorous academic inquiry and creative exploration.

Graduates of the program are prepared for diverse careers including theater production, directing, acting, cultural consultancy, arts administration, academic research, and teaching. The university's location in Washington, D.C., also provides unique opportunities to engage with national and international arts organizations, performance festivals, and policy institutions related to arts and culture. The program promotes a global perspective on performance, encouraging students to analyze and create work that reflects diverse cultural identities and social issues. Overall, the Theater and Performance Studies program at Georgetown aims to foster innovative, socially conscious artists and scholars who can contribute meaningfully to the cultural landscape.