Performing Arts (Theater / Music)

Compare Performing Arts (Theater / Music) programs across 107 schools. Tiered by program strength with earnings data and program highlights.

107 Schools 23 Flagship 43 Strong 30 Solid
← All Majors School Profiles Flagship Programs (23) Strong Programs (43) Solid Programs (30) Available Programs (11)

★★★ Flagship Programs

Yale University US News #3
New Haven, CT · Private · NU #5 · School of Drama / Department of Music
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Theater (Performance, Design, Playwriting), Music (Composition, Performance, Music History)
Research: Contemporary Theater and Performance Studies, Historical Musicology, Composition and Avant-Garde Music
Yale's Performing Arts programs are distinguished by their integration of rigorous academic study with professional-level production opportunities thr
Yale's Performing Arts programs are consistently ranked among the top three nationally and feature world-renowned facult
Carnegie Mellon University US News #4
Pittsburgh, PA · Private · NU #21 · School of Drama
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Acting, Design and Production, Dramatic Writing, Directing
Research: Theater and Technology Integration, Digital Performance and Media, Dramatic Writing and Play Development
The School of Drama at Carnegie Mellon is distinctive for its rigorous integration of traditional performance arts with cutting-edge technology and en
Ranked #4 nationally, Carnegie Mellon's School of Drama is a globally recognized leader that uniquely blends traditional
New York University US News #6
New York, NY · Private · NU #30 · Tisch School of the Arts
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Drama, Musical Theatre, Theatre Design and Technology, Performance Studies
Research: Performance Studies and Critical Theory, Musical Theatre History and Practice, Theatre Design and Technology Innovation
The Tisch School of the Arts is a global leader in performing arts education, offering rigorous BFA and BA programs with direct access to New York Cit
NYU's Tisch School of the Arts is a globally recognized leader in performing arts, consistently ranking among the top pr
University of Southern California US News #7
Los Angeles, CA · Private · NU #27 · USC School of Dramatic Arts (SDA)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Theatre Performance, Musical Theatre, Technical Theatre & Design, Dramaturgy
Research: Musical Theatre Performance and Pedagogy, Theatre History and Theory, Technical Design and Stagecraft
The USC School of Dramatic Arts is a premier conservatory-style program within a major research university, offering unparalleled access to the Los An
Ranked #7 nationally by U.S. News, the USC School of Dramatic Arts is a premier conservatory within a top-tier research
Ohio State University US News #12
Columbus, OH · Public · NU #41 · Department of Theatre & Dance (College of Arts and Sciences) / Department of Music (College of Arts and Sciences)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Acting, Design & Technology, Directing, Musical Theatre
Research: Performance Studies & Critical Theory, Music Cognition and Acoustics, Theatre History and Performance Practice
The Department of Theatre & Dance and the Department of Music at Ohio State offer a rigorous blend of performance, theory, and interdisciplinary innov
Ranked #12 nationally in Performing Arts, Ohio State's program features a rigorous curriculum with distinguished faculty
University of Wisconsin-Madison US News #14
Madison, WI · Public · NU #39 · Department of Music; Department of Theatre & Drama (within the School of Arts and Sciences)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Performance, Music Education, Composition, Ethnomusicology
Research: Ethnomusicology and World Music, Performance Practice and Historical Performance, Theatre History and Theory
UW-Madison's Performing Arts programs are distinguished by their 'Direct Entry' process, which rigorously selects students based on artistic merit bef
Ranked #14 nationally by U.S. News, the program is a major institutional draw distinguished by its rigorous 'Direct Entr
University of Maryland, College Park US News #16
College Park, MD · Public · NU #44 · Department of Theatre and Music (within the College of Arts and Humanities)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Theatre Performance, Theatre Design & Technology, Music Performance, Music Education
Research: Music Cognition and Performance Science, Theatre History and Dramatic Theory, Community Engagement in the Arts
The Department of Theatre and Music at UMD offers a rigorous, conservatory-style education within a large research university setting, allowing studen
Ranked #16 nationally by U.S. News, this program combines a rigorous conservatory-style curriculum with the resources of
University of Texas at Austin US News #17
Austin, TX · Public · NU #30 · Department of Theatre and Dance (School of Fine Arts)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Theatre Performance, Technical Theatre, Dance Performance, Music Performance
Research: Theatre History and Performance Studies, Music Composition and Theory, Dance Kinesiology and Choreography
The University of Texas at Austin offers a robust performing arts program through its School of Fine Arts, featuring the prestigious Butler School of
Ranked #17 nationally by U.S. News, the program features a prestigious, highly selective school with renowned faculty an
University of Washington US News #33
Seattle, WA · Public · NU #46 · School of Music
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Performance (Instrumental/Vocal), Music Education, Music Technology, Ethnomusicology
Research: Ethnomusicology and World Music, Music Technology and Acoustics, Performance Practice and Pedagogy
The University of Washington offers a rigorous, conservatory-style training within a major research university, particularly renowned for its Ethnomus
Ranked #33 nationally with a distinctively competitive, conservatory-style curriculum and renowned faculty in Ethnomusic
Princeton University
Princeton, NJ · Private · NU #1 · Department of Theater (within the Lewis Center for the Arts)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Theater, Music
Research: Performance Studies and Theory, Contemporary Theater History, Music Composition and Analysis
The Lewis Center for the Arts at Princeton offers a unique liberal arts approach to performing arts, integrating rigorous academic study with professi
Princeton's Lewis Center for the Arts is a nationally renowned program that uniquely blends rigorous academic study with
Harvard University
Cambridge, MA · Private · NU #3 · Department of Theater, Dance & Media (TD&M)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Theater, Dance, Media
Research: Performance Studies, Theater History and Theory, Dance Choreography and Analysis
The Department of Theater, Dance & Media at Harvard is distinctive for its rigorous integration of liberal arts theory with professional-grade perform
Harvard's Department of Theater, Dance & Media is a nationally distinctive program that uniquely blends rigorous liberal
Stanford University
Stanford, CA · Private · NU #4 · Department of Music; Department of Theater and Performance Studies (often housed within the School of Humanities and Sciences)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Music Performance, Music History and Theory, Composition, Theater and Performance Studies
Research: Music Cognition and Neuroscience, Historical Musicology, Contemporary Composition and Performance Practice
Stanford's Performing Arts programs distinguish themselves by blending rigorous artistic training with deep intellectual inquiry, particularly in musi
Stanford's Performing Arts programs are nationally renowned for their unique integration of rigorous artistic training w
Northwestern University
Evanston, IL · Private · NU #6 · School of Communication (Theater) / Bienen School of Music (Music)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Theatre Performance, Theatre Design & Technology, Theatre Arts Management, Dance
Research: Performance Studies and Theatre History, Music Cognition and Technology, Arts Administration and Policy
Northwestern's performing arts programs are distinguished by their integration of rigorous academic study with professional-level performance training
Northwestern's performing arts programs are nationally renowned, consistently ranking among the top theater and music sc
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA · Private · NU #10 · Theatre Arts (School of Arts and Sciences) & Music (School of Arts and Sciences)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Theatre Arts (Performance, Design/Technology, Dramatic Literature), Music (Performance, Composition, Musicology)
Research: Performance Studies and Critical Theory, Music Cognition and Neuroscience, Theatre History and Dramatic Literature
The University of Pennsylvania offers a rigorous BA in Theatre Arts and Music within the School of Arts and Sciences, distinguished by its integration
The University of Pennsylvania's performing arts program is a national draw due to its rigorous integration of performan
University of Chicago
Chicago, IL · Private · NU #11 · Department of Theatre & Performance Studies (DTPS) within the Division of the Humanities
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Theatre and Performance Studies, Music (via Department of Music), Interdisciplinary Theatre & Performance
Research: Performance Theory and Criticism, Theater History (Ancient to Contemporary), Musicology and Ethnomusicology
The University of Chicago's performing arts programs distinguish themselves by prioritizing rigorous theoretical inquiry and historical context alongs
Correction: UChicago's program is highly distinctive and often ranks in the top 10-15 nationally; 'strong' underestimate
Columbia University
New York, NY · Private · NU #13 · School of the Arts (SIPA)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Theater, Music, Dance, Visual Arts
Research: Performance Studies, Theater History, Contemporary Composition
The School of the Arts at Columbia offers a rigorous pre-professional education grounded in the university's renowned Core Curriculum, blending artist
Columbia's School of the Arts leverages its location in New York City to provide unparalleled industry access and a rigo
University of California, Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA · Public · NU #15 · UCLA School of the Arts and Architecture
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Theater (Performance, Design & Technology, Writing), Music (Performance, Composition, Musicology), Dance
Research: Performance Studies and Theater History, Ethnomusicology and Global Music Traditions, Music Composition and Technology
The UCLA School of the Arts and Architecture offers a rigorous, professionally oriented curriculum with strong ties to the Los Angeles entertainment i
UCLA's School of the Arts and Architecture is a nationally renowned program with world-class faculty and deep ties to th
University of California, Berkeley
Berkeley, CA · Public · NU #17 · Department of Theater, Dance, and Performance Studies (TDPS)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Theater, Dance, Performance Studies
Research: Performance Studies and Critical Theory, Dance History and Choreography, Theater History and Dramaturgy
The Department of Theater, Dance, and Performance Studies at UC Berkeley is renowned for its rigorous integration of performance practice with critica
UC Berkeley's Department of Theater, Dance, and Performance Studies is nationally renowned for its unique integration of
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, TN · Private · NU #18 · Department of Performance Studies (College of Arts and Science) / Blair School of Music
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Theater Performance, Theater Design & Technology, Music Performance, Music Composition
Research: Theater and Social Justice, Music Cognition and Performance Science, Digital Humanities in the Arts
Vanderbilt offers a unique dual-pathway for performing arts through the highly ranked Blair School of Music and the rigorous College of Arts and Scien
Vanderbilt's Blair School of Music is consistently ranked among the top music programs in the nation, and its theater de
University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, MI · Public · NU #21 · School of Music, Theatre & Dance
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Theatre (Acting, Design & Technology, Directing, Musical Theatre), Music (Performance, Composition, Musicology, Jazz Studies), Dance (Performance, Choreography, Dance Education)
Research: Performance Studies and Critical Theory, Music History and Ethnomusicology, Theatre Design and Technology Innovation
The School of Music, Theatre & Dance at U-M is a premier public arts institution offering rigorous professional training alongside a strong liberal ar
The University of Michigan's School of Music, Theatre & Dance is consistently ranked among the top public and private pe
Bucknell University
Lewisburg, PA · Private · LAC #31 · Department of Theatre and Dance / Department of Music
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: — Grads/yr: 11
Tracks: Theatre Performance, Theatre Design & Technology, Music Performance, Music Education
Research: Performance Studies, Music Pedagogy and Performance Practice, Theatre Design and Technology
The Performing Arts programs at Bucknell are distinguished by their integration of rigorous liberal arts education with extensive practical performanc
Bucknell's program is exceptionally well-regarded for its integration of liberal arts and performance, often outperformi
Boston University
Boston, MA · Private · NU #41 · College of Fine Arts (CFA)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Theater Performance, Theater Design & Technology, Music Performance, Music Composition
Research: Theater History and Performance Theory, Music Composition and Technology, Arts Management and Policy
Boston University's College of Fine Arts is a premier destination for performing arts, offering rigorous conservatory-style training within a major re
Boston University's College of Fine Arts is a nationally premier destination for performing arts, offering rigorous cons
University of Rochester
Rochester, NY · Private · NU #44 · Eastman School of Music; Department of Theatre & Drama (School of the Arts)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Performance (Music), Composition, Music Education, Music Theory
Research: Performance Practice & Historical Interpretation, Music Cognition & Psychology, Theatre History & Performance Theory
The University of Rochester houses the prestigious Eastman School of Music, a world-renowned conservatory that offers rigorous performance and academi
The University of Rochester houses the Eastman School of Music, a globally prestigious conservatory that consistently ra

★★ Strong Programs

Pomona College US News #27
Claremont, CA · Private · LAC #5 · Department of Theater and Dance; Department of Music
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Theater (Performance, Design/Technology, Dramatic Writing), Dance, Music (Performance, Composition, Music History/Theory)
Research: Theater History and Performance Studies, Contemporary Composition and Improvisation, Dance Choreography and Kinesiology
Pomona College offers a rigorous liberal arts approach to performing arts, emphasizing critical thinking alongside technical skill. Unlike conservator
While Pomona is a top liberal arts college, its Performing Arts program does not rank in the top 15 nationally; 'flagshi
Amherst College US News #30
Amherst, MA · Private · LAC #2 · Department of Theatre and Performance Studies
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Theatre, Music
Research: Performance Theory and Criticism, Historical Theatre Practices, Music Cognition and Analysis
Amherst's Theatre and Music programs are distinctive for their integration within the Open Curriculum, allowing students to tailor a rigorous artistic
Amherst is a top-tier liberal arts college with a highly respected, rigorous theater program that rivals many flagship p
Williams College
Williamstown, MA · Private · LAC #1 · Department of Theater and Performance Studies
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Theater, Music
Research: Contemporary Performance Theory, American Theater History, Music Composition and Analysis
Williams College offers a rigorous BA in Theater and Performance Studies that integrates practical performance with deep theoretical inquiry, supporte
Williams College is a top-tier liberal arts institution where its Theater and Performance program is highly regarded; 'f
Duke University
Durham, NC · Private · NU #6 · Department of Performance Studies (within the Trinity College of Arts & Sciences)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Performance Studies, Theater Practice, Music (Pre-professional track via private study)
Research: Performance Theory and Criticism, Theater History and Performance Practice, Interdisciplinary Arts and Social Justice
The Department of Performance Studies at Duke is distinctive for its rigorous blend of theoretical inquiry and practical performance training, offerin
Duke's Performance Studies program is highly regarded and often outperforms schools ranked higher; 'solid' understates i
Wellesley College
Wellesley, MA · Private · LAC #7 · Department of Theatre and Performance Studies
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Theatre, Music
Research: Performance Studies, Theatre History, Music Theory and Composition
The Performing Arts program at Wellesley is distinctive for its rigorous integration of liberal arts theory with practical performance training, suppo
Wellesley's Performing Arts program is nationally distinctive with high alumni success; 'flagship' is an overstatement g
Carleton College
Northfield, MN · Private · LAC #8 · Department of Theatre & Dance; Department of Music
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Theatre (Performance, Design/Technology, Directing), Music (Performance, Composition, Music History/Theory, Education)
Research: Performance studies and dramaturgy, Music composition and theory, Theatre design and technology
Carleton's performing arts programs distinguish themselves through a rigorous liberal arts foundation combined with intensive practical training. The
Carleton's theater program is a defining strength of the college with high alumni success; 'solid' understates its quali
Claremont McKenna College
Claremont, CA · Private · LAC #8 · Department of Theatre and Dance
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Theatre Performance, Theatre Design & Technology, Dance
Research: Performance Studies, Theatre Design & Technology, Dance Choreography
The Department of Theatre and Dance at CMC emphasizes a rigorous liberal arts foundation alongside professional training, offering students extensive
The program leverages the unique resources of the Claremont Consortium to offer rigorous professional training alongside
Cornell University
Ithaca, NY · Private · NU #11 · Department of Performing Arts (College of Arts and Sciences)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Theater, Music
Research: Performance Studies, Musicology and Historical Performance Practice, Theater History and Dramatic Theory
Cornell's Department of Performing Arts distinguishes itself through a rigorous academic foundation in the College of Arts and Sciences combined with
Cornell's College of Arts and Sciences theater program is rigorous and well-regarded, often outperforming schools ranked
Fresno State
Fresno, CA · Public · LAC #11 · Department of Theatre and Dance
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: $19,665 Grads/yr: 34
Tracks: Acting, Design and Technology, Directing, Musical Theatre
Research: Applied Theatre and Community Engagement, Theatre History and Criticism, Stage Design and Technology
The Department of Theatre and Dance at Fresno State offers a comprehensive BA program with a strong emphasis on practical, hands-on training through e
The program is well-regarded within California for producing work-ready professionals through extensive practical traini
Vassar College
Poughkeepsie, NY · Private · LAC #12 · Department of Theater and Dance
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Theater, Dance, Music (as an interdisciplinary minor or elective focus), Performance Studies
Research: Contemporary Performance Theory, Dance History and Choreography, Theater Design and Technology
Vassar's Performing Arts program is distinguished by its open curriculum, allowing students to tailor a rigorous path combining theater, dance, and mu
Vassar's Performing Arts program is a nationally recognized draw with high alumni success; 'flagship' is an overstatemen
Brown University
Providence, RI · Private · NU #13 · Department of Performing Arts
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Theater, Music, Dance
Research: Performance Theory and Criticism, Contemporary Theater Practice, Music Composition and Ethnomusicology
The Department of Performing Arts at Brown is distinguished by its integration within the Open Curriculum, allowing students to tailor their artistic
Brown's Performing Arts program leverages its elite status through the Open Curriculum and a unique dual-degree pathway
Hamilton College
Clinton, NY · Private · LAC #14 · Department of Theatre and Dance
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Theatre Performance, Theatre Design and Technology, Dance, Music (as a minor or elective focus)
Research: Performance Studies, Theatre History, Design and Technology
Hamilton's Theatre and Dance program leverages the Open Curriculum to allow students to design highly individualized paths, culminating in a rigorous
Hamilton's program is highly regarded and often outperforms schools ranked higher; 'solid' is an understatement.
Wesleyan University
Middletown, CT · Private · LAC #14 · Department of Music; Department of Theater and Performance Studies
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Music Performance, Composition, Music History and Theory, Theater Performance
Research: Contemporary Composition and Performance, Theater History and Theory, Interdisciplinary Arts and Social Justice
Wesleyan's Performing Arts programs are distinctive for their integration of rigorous academic study with high-level practical performance, supported
Wesleyan's Performing Arts program is a nationally distinctive draw with high alumni success; 'flagship' is an overstate
Smith College
Northampton, MA · Private · LAC #14 · Department of Theatre and Dance; Department of Music
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Theatre Performance, Theatre Design & Technology, Theatre History & Criticism, Music Performance
Research: Contemporary Performance Studies, Music Theory and Analysis, Theatre History and Criticism
Smith College offers a rigorous, interdisciplinary approach to the performing arts, blending academic inquiry with intensive practical training. The p
Smith's Performing Arts program is highly regarded and often outperforms schools ranked higher; 'flagship' is an oversta
Barnard College
New York, NY · Private · LAC #14 · Theater and Performance Studies (Department of Performing Arts)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Theater, Music
Research: Performance as Social Justice, Historical Theater Analysis, Musicology and Composition
The Performing Arts program at Barnard leverages its unique affiliation with Columbia University to offer students unparalleled access to New York Cit
Barnard's proximity to NYC and robust curriculum make it a top choice for theater students, deserving of 'strong' rather
University of Notre Dame
Notre Dame, IN · Private · NU #18 · Department of Music and Theatre Arts (within the College of Arts and Letters)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Music Performance, Music History and Theory, Theatre Performance, Theatre Design and Technology
Research: Liturgical Music and Sacred Arts, Theatre History and Performance Theory, Music Cognition and Psychology
The Department of Music and Theatre Arts at Notre Dame is distinctive for its integration of rigorous artistic training with a strong emphasis on ethi
Notre Dame's program is highly regarded and often outperforms schools ranked higher; 'solid' is too conservative.
Rice University
Houston, TX · Private · NU #18 · Shepherd School of Music (Music Performance/Theory) / Department of Theatre & Dance
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Performance (Instrumental/Vocal), Music Education, Music Theory & Composition, Theatre Performance
Research: Performance Practice and Historical Interpretation, Contemporary Composition and Electroacoustics, Theatre Pedagogy and Performance Theory
Rice offers a unique blend of rigorous conservatory-level training within a top-tier research university, allowing students to pursue performance alon
Rice's Shepherd School of Music and Theatre are excellent, but they do not consistently rank in the top 15 nationally; '
Middlebury College
Middlebury, VT · Private · LAC #19 · Department of Theater and Dance; Department of Music
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Theater (Performance, Design & Technology, Writing), Music (Performance, Composition, Theory/History)
Research: Performance studies and dramaturgy, Ethnomusicology and global music traditions, Theater design and technology
Middlebury's performing arts programs are distinctive for their integration with the college's global focus, offering students unique opportunities to
Middlebury's program is highly regarded and often outperforms schools ranked higher; 'solid' is an understatement.
Grinnell College
Grinnell, IA · Private · LAC #19 · Department of Theatre and Dance
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Theatre Performance, Theatre Design and Technology, Dance, Music (as a minor or elective track)
Research: Performance studies and theory, Dance choreography and somatics, Theatre design and technology
Grinnell's Theatre and Dance program emphasizes a rigorous, student-centered approach where students design their own curricula through the MAP system
Grinnell's theater program is a defining strength with high alumni success; 'solid' understates its national reputation.
Washington University in St. Louis
St. Louis, MO · Private · NU #21 · Department of Performing Arts (School of Fine Arts)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Theater, Music, Dance
Research: Performance Studies and Theory, Music Composition and Performance Practice, Theater History and Dramatic Literature
The Department of Performing Arts at WashU offers a rigorous BA program that balances technical skill development with liberal arts theory, allowing s
Washington University in St. Louis offers a highly regarded program that often outperforms schools ranked higher; 'solid
University of Richmond
Richmond, VA · Private · LAC #22 · Department of Performing Arts
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: — Grads/yr: 2
Tracks: Theatre (Performance, Design/Technology, Musical Theatre), Music (Performance, Music History/Theory, Composition)
Research: Performance Studies, Music Theory and History, Theatre Design and Technology
The University of Richmond's Department of Performing Arts is distinguished by its integration of rigorous academic study with extensive practical per
The University of Richmond's Performing Arts program leverages its top-tier liberal arts status to offer a rigorous, hig
Colgate University
Hamilton, NY · Private · LAC #22 · Department of Theater and Dance / Department of Music
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: — Grads/yr: 4
Tracks: Theater (Performance, Design/Technology, Directing), Music (Performance, Composition, Theory)
Research: Theater History and Performance Theory, Music Composition and Ethnomusicology, Dramaturgy and Stage Design
Colgate's Performing Arts program is distinctive for its integration of rigorous academic study with high-level professional performance training in a
Colgate has a long-standing, highly regarded theater program that rivals many top-15 programs; 'solid' is an understatem
Haverford College
Haverford, PA · Private · LAC #24 · Department of Performing Arts
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: — Grads/yr: 2
Tracks: Theater and Performance Studies, Music
Research: Performance Studies and Critical Theory, Ethnomusicology and Global Music Traditions, Theater History and Dramatic Literature
The Performing Arts program at Haverford is distinctive for its integration of rigorous academic inquiry with practical performance, culminating in a
Haverford's program is unique and well-regarded, often rivaling top-15 programs; 'solid' is too conservative.
Emory University
Atlanta, GA · Private · NU #24 · Department of Theatre and Dance
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Theatre Performance, Theatre Design & Technology, Dance Performance, Dance Education
Research: Ethnodrama and Social Justice Performance, Theatre Design and Technology Innovation, Dance Kinesiology and Movement Science
The Department of Theatre and Dance at Emory distinguishes itself through a rigorous academic focus on performance as a tool for social change and eth
Emory's program is distinctive and well-regarded, often rivaling top-15 programs; 'solid' is too conservative.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, NC · Public · NU #27 · Department of Dramatic Art (School of Arts & Sciences) / Department of Music (School of Arts & Sciences)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Dramatic Art (Theater), Music Performance, Music Theory and Composition, Ethnomusicology
Research: Performance Studies and Theater History, Ethnomusicology and World Music Traditions, Music Theory and Composition
UNC Chapel Hill offers a rigorous, academically grounded performing arts program that balances practical performance training with deep theoretical st
UNC Chapel Hill's program is a leader but does not rank in the top 15 nationally; 'strong' better reflects its reputatio
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, CA · Public · NU #29 · Department of Theater, Dance, and Performance Art (TDPA) within the Division of Arts & Humanities; Department of Music within the Division of Arts & Humanities
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Theater (Performance, Design, Production), Dance, Music (Performance, Composition, Theory), Interdisciplinary Arts
Research: Performance Studies and Critical Theory, Music Technology and Sonic Arts, Dance Anthropology and Choreography
UCSD's Performing Arts programs are distinctive for their rigorous integration of performance with scientific inquiry, particularly through the Music
UCSD's program is distinguished and well-regarded, often outperforming schools ranked higher; 'solid' is too conservativ
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL · Public · NU #30 · School of Music
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Performance (Vocal, Instrumental), Music Education, Music Business, Music Technology
Research: Performance Practice and Pedagogy, Music Technology and Acoustics, Ethnomusicology
The University of Florida's School of Music is a nationally recognized conservatory-style program within a major research university, offering rigorou
UF's School of Music is recognized and well-regarded, often outperforming schools ranked higher; 'solid' is too conserva
University of California, Irvine
Irvine, CA · Public · NU #33 · Department of Theater and Performance Studies
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Theater Performance, Theater Design and Technology, Dance
Research: Performance Studies, Theater History, Dance Theory and Practice
The Department of Theater and Performance Studies at UCI offers a rigorous BA program with a strong emphasis on both performance and design, situated
UCI's Department of Theater and Performance Studies is rigorous and well-regarded, often outperforming schools ranked hi
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Champaign, IL · Public · NU #33 · Department of Theatre & Dance (School of Music)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Acting, Design and Technology, Directing, Dance Performance
Research: Music Education and Pedagogy, Theatre History and Performance Studies, Dance Kinesiology and Choreography
The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign offers a robust Performing Arts program housed within the School of Music, distinguished by its rigorous f
UIUC's School of Music is respected and well-regarded, often outperforming schools ranked higher; 'solid' is too conserv
Skidmore College
Saratoga Springs, NY · Private · LAC #36 · Department of Theatre and Dance
2yr Earnings: $20,140 1yr: — Grads/yr: 16
Tracks: Theatre (Performance, Design/Technology, or History/Theory), Dance, Music (Concentration within the Department of Music)
Research: Performance Studies and Theatre History, Dance Choreography and Kinesiology, Music Theory and Composition
Skidmore's Performing Arts program is distinctive for its integration of rigorous academic inquiry with creative practice, exemplified by unique cours
Skidmore's program is a national draw for liberal arts students with high alumni success; 'offered' understates its qual
Tufts University
Medford, MA · Private · NU #37 · Department of Theater & Performance Studies (School of Arts & Sciences) and Department of Music (School of Arts & Sciences)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Theater (Performance, Design, Production, History/Theory), Music (Performance, Composition, Theory, Education)
Research: Performance Studies and Critical Theory, Music Cognition and Technology, Theater History and Production Management
Tufts offers a rigorous liberal arts approach to performing arts, blending academic theory with extensive practical training through its professional-
Tufts offers a high-quality program that often outperforms schools ranked higher; 'solid' is too conservative.
University of California, Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara, CA · Public · NU #39 · Department of Theater, Dance, and Performance Studies (TDPS)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Theater, Dance, Performance Studies
Research: Performance Studies and Critical Theory, Contemporary Theater History, Dance Choreography and Kinesiology
The Department of Theater, Dance, and Performance Studies at UCSB is distinctive for its rigorous integration of critical theory with practical perfor
UCSB's program is recognized and well-regarded, often outperforming schools ranked higher; 'solid' is too conservative.
Spelman College
Atlanta, GA · Private · LAC #40 · Department of Theatre and Dance
2yr Earnings: $15,552 1yr: — Grads/yr: 4
Tracks: Theatre Performance, Theatre Production, Dance Performance
Research: Black Theatre History and Performance, Feminist Theatre Theory, Community-Based Performance Practices
Spelman's Theatre and Dance program is distinctive for its deep integration of Black feminist theory and social justice into performance practice, off
Spelman's program is unique and well-regarded, often outperforming schools ranked higher; 'offered' understates its qual
Trinity University
San Antonio, TX · Private · LAC #40 · Department of Performing Arts
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: — Grads/yr: 4
Tracks: Theatre Performance, Theatre Production & Design, Music Performance
Research: Musical Theatre Performance, Theatre Design and Technology, Applied Music Pedagogy
The Department of Performing Arts at Trinity University offers a rigorous BA program that integrates liberal arts theory with intensive practical trai
Trinity University's Performing Arts program is a defining feature of its liberal arts curriculum, offering rigorous pra
Union College
Schenectady, NY · Private · LAC #40 · Department of Performing Arts
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: — Grads/yr: 9
Tracks: Theatre, Music
Research: Theatre History and Performance Practice, Music Theory and Composition, Applied Theatre and Community Engagement
Union College's Performing Arts program is distinctive for its integration into a rigorous liberal arts curriculum, requiring a senior thesis or capst
Union College's Performing Arts program is a distinctive strength within its liberal arts context, offering rigorous int
Kenyon College
Gambier, OH · Private · LAC #45 · Department of Theatre and Dance; Department of Music
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: — Grads/yr: 15
Tracks: Theatre Performance, Theatre Design & Technology, Music Performance, Music History & Theory
Research: Theatre History and Performance Theory, Musicology and Ethnomusicology, Performance Studies and Community Engagement
Kenyon's performing arts programs are distinguished by their integration into the broader liberal arts curriculum, emphasizing critical thinking along
Kenyon has a respected program with high alumni success; 'solid' understates its national reputation.
Wake Forest University
Winston-Salem, NC · Private · NU #46 · Department of Theatre and Dance
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Acting, Design and Technology, Theatre Management, Dance Performance
Research: Theatre History and Performance, Design and Technology for Stage, Dance Pedagogy and Performance
The Department of Theatre and Dance at Wake Forest is distinguished by its integration of artistic practice with the university's 'Pro Humanitate' mis
Wake Forest's program is highly regarded and often outperforms schools ranked higher; 'solid' is too conservative.
University of Georgia
Athens, GA · Public · NU #46 · Department of Theatre and Dance (within the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Theatre Performance, Theatre Production and Design, Dance Performance, Dance Education
Research: Theatre History and Performance Studies, Dance Pedagogy and Kinesiology, Applied Theatre and Community Engagement
The Department of Theatre and Dance at UGA offers a rigorous BA program with a strong emphasis on both performance and production, supported by state-
UGA's program is well-regarded and often outperforms schools ranked higher; 'solid' is too conservative.
Lehigh University
Bethlehem, PA · Private · NU #46 · Department of Performing Arts
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Theatre Performance, Theatre Production & Design, Music Performance, Music Education
Research: Theatre History and Criticism, Performance Studies, Music Pedagogy
The Department of Performing Arts at Lehigh is distinguished by its rigorous balance of academic study and intensive practical performance, offering s
Lehigh's program is distinctive and well-regarded, often outperforming schools ranked higher; 'solid' is too conservativ
St. Olaf College
Northfield, MN · Private · LAC #50 · Department of Music and Theatre Arts
2yr Earnings: $28,236 1yr: $24,029 Grads/yr: 47
Tracks: Music Performance, Music Education, Music History/Theory, Theatre Performance
Research: Music Education Pedagogy, Nordic Musicology, Theatre History and Performance
The Department of Music and Theatre Arts at St. Olaf is distinguished by its integration of rigorous performance training with a strong emphasis on co
St. Olaf's Music and Theatre Arts program is a distinctive draw for liberal arts students, featuring nationally recogniz
DePauw University
Greencastle, IN · Private · LAC #50 · School of Creative Arts
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: — Grads/yr: 3
Tracks: Theater (Performance, Design & Technology, Musical Theater), Music (Performance, Music Education, Composition)
Research: Theater Performance and Design, Music Education and Pedagogy, Contemporary Music Composition
DePauw's School of Creative Arts distinguishes itself through a rigorous BA program that integrates performance with liberal arts theory, supported by
DePauw's School of Creative Arts is a well-regarded program within the liberal arts landscape, distinguished by its rigo
University of California, Riverside
Riverside, CA · Public · NU #76 · Department of Theatre and Dance
2yr Earnings: $21,508 1yr: —
Tracks: Theatre Performance, Theatre Design and Technology, Dance
Research: Performance Studies, Theatre Design and Technology, Dance Choreography
The Department of Theatre and Dance at UCR offers a rigorous BA program that integrates performance, design, and production within a vibrant artistic
The Department of Theatre and Dance at UCR is explicitly highlighted as a key strength alongside Film and Digital Produc
University of California, Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz, CA · Public · NU #82 · Department of Theater and Dance
2yr Earnings: $26,353 1yr: — Grads/yr: 15
Tracks: Theater Performance, Theater Design and Technology, Dance Performance, Dance Choreography
Research: Performance Studies, Theater History and Criticism, Choreography and Dance Theory
The UCSC Theater and Dance program is distinctive for its integration with the university's residential college system, fostering a close-knit communi
UC Santa Cruz offers a distinctive, rigorous BA in Theater and Dance with recognized faculty in performance studies and

★ Solid Programs

Cal Poly San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispo, CA · Public · LAC #1 · Department of Theatre and Dance
2yr Earnings: $23,649 1yr: — Grads/yr: 10
Tracks: Theatre Performance, Technical Theatre / Stagecraft, Dance
Research: Applied Theatre and Community Engagement, Technical Theatre Design and Production, Dance Pedagogy and Performance
The Performing Arts program at Cal Poly SLO is distinctively grounded in the university's 'Learn by Doing' philosophy, emphasizing practical productio
While Cal Poly SLO has a good program, it lacks the national ranking or elite reputation to justify 'strong'; 'solid' is
San Diego State University
San Diego, CA · Public · LAC #2 · Department of Theatre and Dance
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: $23,178 Grads/yr: 42
Tracks: Theatre Performance, Theatre Design and Technology, Dance Performance, Dance Education
Research: Theatre History and Performance Studies, Dance Kinesiology and Pedagogy, Community-Engaged Arts and Social Justice
The Department of Theatre and Dance at SDSU is distinguished by its rigorous performance training and strong integration with the vibrant San Diego ar
SDSU has a good program, but it lacks the national ranking or elite reputation to justify 'strong'; 'solid' is accurate.
California State Polytechnic University, Pomona
Pomona, CA · Public · LAC #3 · Department of Theatre and Dance
2yr Earnings: $29,322 1yr: $20,976 Grads/yr: 36
Tracks: Theatre Performance, Theatre Production (Technical Theatre), Dance
Research: Applied Theatre and Community Engagement, Theatre History and Performance Studies, Technical Theatre Design and Production
The Department of Theatre and Dance at Cal Poly Pomona distinguishes itself through a rigorous 'Learn by Doing' philosophy, offering students extensiv
Cal Poly Pomona offers a well-regarded program grounded in its 'Learn by Doing' philosophy with strong regional connecti
Swarthmore College
Swarthmore, PA · Private · LAC #3 · Department of Theater and Performance Studies
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Theater, Music
Research: Performance Theory and Criticism, Contemporary Theater Practice, Music Composition and Performance
The Performing Arts program at Swarthmore is distinguished by its integration of rigorous academic study with extensive practical production opportuni
Swarthmore's program is a defining feature but does not rank in the top 15 nationally; 'strong' overstates its national
California State University, Long Beach
Long Beach, CA · Public · LAC #4 · Department of Theatre and Dance / Department of Music
2yr Earnings: $19,929 1yr: $20,025 Grads/yr: 82
Tracks: Theatre Performance, Theatre Design & Technology, Music Performance, Music Education
Research: Theatre Pedagogy and Community Engagement, Music Education and Performance Practice, Arts Administration
The Performing Arts programs at CSULB emphasize practical experience through extensive student productions and recitals, leveraging the university's l
CSULB's Performing Arts programs offer competent training and clear pathways to local employment in the LA arts scene, b
San Jose State University
San Jose, CA · Public · LAC #5 · Department of Theatre and Dance
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: — Grads/yr: 20
Tracks: Acting, Design and Technology, Directing, Musical Theatre
Research: Applied Theatre and Community Engagement, Theatre Design and Technology Innovation, Musical Theatre Performance History
The Department of Theatre and Dance at SJSU leverages its Silicon Valley location to offer unique opportunities in digital media, immersive theatre, a
SJSU offers a solid program with practical training, but it does not rank in the top tier nationally; 'solid' is correct
San Francisco State University
San Francisco, CA · Public · LAC #6 · Department of Theatre Arts and Dance
2yr Earnings: $25,194 1yr: $26,049 Grads/yr: 30
Tracks: Theatre Performance, Theatre Design and Technology, Dance Performance, Dance Education
Research: Community-engaged theatre and performance, Ethnic studies and representation in the arts, Dance pedagogy and somatics
The Department of Theatre Arts and Dance at SFSU is distinctive for its deep integration of social justice, ethnic studies, and community engagement i
SFSU's program is distinctive regionally but lacks the national ranking to justify 'strong'; 'solid' is appropriate.
California State University, Fullerton
Fullerton, CA · Public · LAC #7 · Department of Theatre and Dance / Department of Music
2yr Earnings: $23,803 1yr: $26,021 Grads/yr: 93
Tracks: Theatre Performance, Theatre Design and Technology, Music Performance, Music Education
Research: Theatre History and Performance Practice, Music Education Pedagogy, Arts Administration and Industry Trends
The Performing Arts program at CSUF distinguishes itself through its strategic location near the Los Angeles entertainment hub, offering robust perfor
While CSU Fullerton has a good program, it lacks the national ranking or elite reputation to justify 'strong'; 'solid' i
California State University, Northridge
Northridge, CA · Public · LAC #8 · Department of Theatre and Dance
2yr Earnings: $22,648 1yr: $17,822 Grads/yr: 132
Tracks: Theatre Performance, Theatre Production, Dance Performance, Dance Education
Research: Applied Theatre and Community Engagement, Musical Theatre Performance, Theatre Production and Design
The Department of Theatre and Dance at CSUN offers a comprehensive BA that leverages its proximity to Los Angeles for extensive professional internshi
CSUN has a strong local reputation, but nationally it does not rank in the top tier; 'solid' is more accurate than 'stro
California State University, Chico
Chico, CA · Public · LAC #9 · Department of Theatre and Dance / Department of Music
2yr Earnings: $20,596 1yr: $18,089 Grads/yr: 61
Tracks: Theatre Performance, Technical Theatre (Stage Management, Design & Technology), Music Performance, Music Education
Research: Theatre Pedagogy and Performance Studies, Music Education and Community Engagement, Stage Design and Technology
The Performing Arts program at Chico State offers a robust BA degree with strong performance opportunities in both theatre and music, catering to stud
The program offers a robust curriculum with strong practical training and clear career pipelines to regional theatres an
California State University, Sacramento
Sacramento, CA · Public · LAC #10 · Department of Theatre & Dance
2yr Earnings: $19,227 1yr: $18,404 Grads/yr: 27
Tracks: Theatre Performance, Theatre Production, Music Performance, Music Education
Research: Theatre Pedagogy and Performance Practice, Music Education and Community Engagement, Dance Choreography and Movement Science
The Department of Theatre & Dance at CSU Sacramento emphasizes practical, performance-based training within a public university setting, offering stro
The program offers a competent, practice-based curriculum with strong local industry connections to Sacramento's arts sc
Sonoma State University
Rohnert Park, CA · Public · LAC #12 · Department of Theatre & Dance / Department of Music
2yr Earnings: $31,839 1yr: — Grads/yr: 17
Tracks: Theatre Performance, Theatre Design & Technology, Music Performance, Music Education
Research: Performance Studies, Music Pedagogy and Performance Practice, Community Engagement in the Arts
Sonoma State University distinguishes its Performing Arts programs through the world-class Green Music Center, which serves as a premier venue for stu
Sonoma State's program is good, but the Green Music Center does not elevate it to a national 'strong' tier; 'solid' is a
California State University, Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA · Public · LAC #13 · College of Arts and Letters
2yr Earnings: $14,627 1yr: $23,044 Grads/yr: 35
Tracks: Theatre (Performance, Design/Technology, Musical Theatre), Music (Performance, Music Education, Music Industry)
Research: Theatre History and Performance Practice, Music Education Pedagogy, Community-Based Arts Engagement
The Performing Arts program at Cal State LA is rooted in the College of Arts and Letters, offering a practical BA that leverages Los Angeles's proximi
Cal State LA offers a competent Performing Arts program with practical training and strong local industry connections, b
Davidson College
Davidson, NC · Private · LAC #14 · Department of Theatre & Dance; Department of Music
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Theatre Performance, Theatre Design & Technology, Music Performance, Music Theory & Composition
Research: Theatre History and Performance Studies, Music Theory and Composition, Arts Administration and Community Engagement
Davidson College offers a rigorous BA in Theatre and Music within a liberal arts framework, emphasizing both performance excellence and intellectual i
Davidson's program is excellent for a liberal arts college but lacks the top-15 national ranking required for 'strong' i
Cal Poly Humboldt
Arcata, CA · Public · LAC #14 · Department of Visual and Performing Arts
2yr Earnings: $25,194 1yr: — Grads/yr: 13
Tracks: Theatre (Performance, Design & Technology), Music (Performance)
Research: Community-engaged theatre and performance, Music education and pedagogy in rural contexts, Arts administration and cultural policy
The Performing Arts program at Cal Poly Humboldt distinguishes itself through its 'polytechnic' approach, emphasizing hands-on production experience a
Cal Poly Humboldt offers a competent, hands-on Performing Arts program with a unique polytechnic focus and strong region
California State University, East Bay
Hayward, CA · Public · LAC #15 · Department of Theatre and Dance / Department of Music
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: — Grads/yr: 11
Tracks: Theatre Performance, Theatre Design and Technology, Music Performance, Music Education
Research: Music Education Pedagogy, Community-Based Theatre, Performance Studies
The Performing Arts program at CSU East Bay emphasizes practical, hands-on training through student productions and recitals, serving as a primary pip
The program offers a competent curriculum with clear pipelines to local K-12 education and community theatre, but it lac
Dartmouth College
Hanover, NH · Private · NU #15 · Department of Theater & Dance; Department of Music
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Theater (Performance, Design, History, Theory), Dance (Performance, Choreography, Theory), Music (Performance, Composition, Theory, Ethnomusicology)
Research: Contemporary Theater Performance, Music Composition and Theory, Dance Choreography and Movement Studies
Dartmouth's Theater & Dance and Music programs are distinguished by their integration of performance with rigorous academic study, supported by the un
Dartmouth offers a solid liberal arts program, but it does not rank in the top 15 nationally; 'strong' is inconsistent w
California State University, Monterey Bay
Seaside, CA · Public · LAC #17 · Department of Visual and Performing Arts
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: — Grads/yr: 13
Tracks: Music Performance, Music Education, Theatre Performance, Theatre Production
Research: Community-based arts education, Performance pedagogy, Local cultural preservation through theatre and music
The Performing Arts program at CSUMB distinguishes itself through its mandatory Service Learning requirement, which integrates artistic practice with
CSUMB's program is competent but niche; 'strong' overstates its national reach compared to established regional draws.
California State University, San Bernardino
San Bernardino, CA · Public · LAC #18 · Department of Theatre and Dance
2yr Earnings: $18,315 1yr: $22,079 Grads/yr: 18
Tracks: Theatre Performance, Stage Management, Technical Theatre, Dance
Research: Theatre History and Performance Studies, Community-Based Theatre, Arts Administration
The Department of Theatre and Dance at CSUSB offers a comprehensive BA that balances performance, technical production, and academic study. The progra
The program offers a comprehensive BA with practical experience through community partnerships and student productions,
California State University, Stanislaus
Turlock, CA · Public · LAC #19 · Department of Theatre and Dance / Department of Music
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: — Grads/yr: 7
Tracks: Theatre Performance, Music Performance
Research: Performance Pedagogy, Community Theatre Engagement, Music Education and Ensemble Direction
The Performing Arts program at CSU Stanislaus emphasizes hands-on performance experience through student-led productions and ensemble participation, s
The program provides a competent, practice-oriented curriculum with clear regional employment pipelines in the Central V
California State University, Bakersfield
Bakersfield, CA · Public · LAC #20 · Department of Theatre and Dance / Department of Music
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: — Grads/yr: 5
Tracks: Theatre Performance, Theatre Production/Design, Music Performance, Music Education
Research: Performance Studies, Music Pedagogy, Community Engagement in the Arts
The Performing Arts program at CSUB is characterized by a strong emphasis on practical, hands-on experience through student-led productions and ensemb
CSUB's Performing Arts program offers a competent, practice-oriented curriculum that effectively serves the Central Vall
California State University, Dominguez Hills
Carson, CA · Public · LAC #22 · Department of Theatre and Dance
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: $17,790 Grads/yr: 18
Tracks: Performance, Theatre Design and Technology, Dance Performance
Research: Community-engaged theatre and performance, Latino/a/x and Chicano Theatre, Dance pedagogy and cultural expression
The Performing Arts program at CSUDH is distinctive for its deep commitment to social justice, diversity, and community engagement, reflecting the uni
CSUDH offers a competent and distinctive Performing Arts program with a recognized focus on social justice and Latino/a/
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, VA · Public · NU #24 · Department of Theater and Dance (within the Division of Arts)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Theater Performance, Theater Design and Technology, Dance Performance, Dance Studies
Research: Theater History and Performance Theory, Dance Kinesiology and Choreography, Design Technology and Stagecraft
The Department of Theater and Dance at UVA is distinctive for its rigorous integration of performance practice with academic theory, offering a BA tha
UVA's program is highly regarded but does not rank in the top 15 nationally; 'strong' overstates its national standing.
Bates College
Lewiston, ME · Private · LAC #26 · Department of Theater and Dance; Department of Music
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: — Grads/yr: 9
Tracks: Theater (Performance, Design/Technology, Directing), Dance (Performance, Choreography), Music (Performance, Composition, Theory)
Research: Theater History and Performance Practice, Choreography and Dance Theory, Music Composition and Analysis
Bates College offers a flexible, open-curriculum approach to Theater, Dance, and Music, allowing students to design their own paths through the Indivi
Bates offers a good program but lacks the national ranking or specialized conservatory reputation required for 'strong'
Colorado College
Colorado Springs, CO · Private · LAC #29 · Department of Theater and Dance; Department of Music
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: — Grads/yr: 2
Tracks: Theater (Performance, Design, Production), Music (Performance, Composition, Theory)
Research: Applied Theater and Community Engagement, Music Performance and Pedagogy, Interdisciplinary Arts and Social Justice
The Performing Arts programs at Colorado College are distinctive for their integration with the Block Plan, allowing students to immerse themselves in
The Block Plan offers unique flexibility, but the program does not rank in the top 15 nationally; 'strong' is inconsiste
Bryn Mawr College
Bryn Mawr, PA · Private · LAC #29 · Department of Theatre and Dance; Department of Music
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Theatre Performance, Theatre Design & Technology, Theatre History & Criticism, Music Performance
Research: Contemporary Theatre Performance, Historical Musicology, Theatre Design & Technology
Bryn Mawr's Performing Arts programs distinguish themselves by integrating rigorous performance training with deep theoretical inquiry, a hallmark of
Bryn Mawr's program is distinctive but not a top-15 national leader; 'strong' is inconsistent with the high bar set for
Rutgers University-New Brunswick
New Brunswick, NJ · Public · NU #41 · Department of Theater and Dance (School of Arts and Sciences) / Department of Music (School of Arts and Sciences)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Theater Performance, Theater Production Design, Theater History and Criticism, Music Performance
Research: Theater History and Performance Studies, Music Composition and Technology, Performance Pedagogy
The Department of Theater and Dance offers a rigorous BA program with strong performance and production tracks, while the Music department provides sp
Rutgers-New Brunswick offers a comprehensive program but does not rank in the top 15 nationally; 'strong' overstates its
Dickinson College
Carlisle, PA · Private · LAC #45 · Department of Performing Arts
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: — Grads/yr: 5
Tracks: Theatre, Music
Research: Performance Studies, Music Theory and History, Theatre Production and Design
The Performing Arts program at Dickinson is deeply integrated into the 'Dickinson Plan,' requiring every student to complete a senior project that oft
Dickinson's Performing Arts program is a well-regarded component of its rigorous liberal arts curriculum, particularly d
Purdue University
West Lafayette, IN · Public · NU #46 · Department of Theatre; Department of Music (within the College of Liberal Arts)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Theatre Performance, Theatre Design and Technology, Theatre Management, Music Performance
Research: Performance Studies and Theatre History, Music Cognition and Performance Psychology, Technical Theatre Design and Acoustics
The Department of Theatre and the Department of Music at Purdue offer a rigorous liberal arts foundation combined with extensive practical performance
Purdue's program is distinguished but does not rank in the top 15 nationally; 'strong' overstates its national standing.
University of California, Merced
Merced, CA · Public · NU #60 · School of Social Sciences, Humanities & Arts
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Theater (Performance and Production), Music (Performance and Composition)
Research: Theater History and Performance Studies, Ethnomusicology and World Music, Arts and Social Justice
The Performing Arts program at UC Merced is distinct for its strong emphasis on community engagement and social justice, leveraging the university's l
UC Merced's Performing Arts program offers a competent, niche-focused curriculum with strong community engagement and so

— Available Programs

Washington and Lee University
Lexington, VA · Private · LAC #19 · Department of Theatre & Dance / Department of Music
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Theatre Performance, Theatre Design & Production, Music Performance, Music Education
Research: Theatre History and Performance Studies, Music Pedagogy and Performance Practice, Arts Administration and Management
W&L's Performing Arts program is distinguished by its integration within a rigorous liberal arts curriculum, offering students the chance to major in
W&L's program is highly regarded but lacks a top-15 national ranking; 'strong' overstates its national standing.
Macalester College
St. Paul, MN · Private · LAC #26 · Department of Theatre and Dance
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: — Grads/yr: 7
Tracks: Theatre Performance, Theatre Design and Technology, Dance, Music (often available as a minor or through the Music Department)
Research: Applied Theatre and Social Justice, Dance Pedagogy, Theatre Design and Technology
The Theatre and Dance program at Macalester is distinctive for its deep integration of performance with social justice, global perspectives, and commu
Macalester's program is unique but lacks the national ranking to be classified as 'strong'; it is better described as 'o
College of the Holy Cross
Worcester, MA · Private · LAC #28 · Department of Theatre and Dance
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: — Grads/yr: 8
Tracks: Theatre Performance, Theatre Production (Design & Technology), Dance
Research: Performance Studies, Theatre History and Theory, Dance Choreography and Pedagogy
The Department of Theatre and Dance at Holy Cross offers a rigorous BA that balances practical performance skills with deep theoretical inquiry, roote
Holy Cross's program is a niche strength but lacks the national ranking to be classified as 'strong' in this context.
Lafayette College
Easton, PA · Private · LAC #31 · Department of Performing Arts
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: — Grads/yr: 11
Tracks: Theatre (Performance, Design & Technology, Musical Theatre), Music (Performance, Music Education, Composition)
Research: Theatre History and Criticism, Performance Studies, Music Performance Pedagogy
Lafayette's Department of Performing Arts is distinguished by its integrated approach to performance, design, and technology, offering students extens
Lafayette's program is a defining feature but lacks the national ranking to justify 'strong'; it fits better as 'offered
Franklin & Marshall College
Lancaster, PA · Private · LAC #31 · Department of Performing Arts
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: — Grads/yr: 3
Tracks: Theater, Music
Research: Performance Studies, Historical Theater Practice, Choral and Orchestral Performance
The Performing Arts program at Franklin & Marshall College is distinguished by its rigorous pre-professional training within a liberal arts context, o
F&M's program is niche and small-scale; 'strong' overstates its national reach compared to top-tier programs.
Occidental College
Los Angeles, CA · Private · LAC #34 · Theatre and Dance Department; Music Program
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: — Grads/yr: 12
Tracks: Theatre Performance, Theatre Design & Technology, Dance, Music (Performance/Composition)
Research: Performance Studies and Critical Theory, Community-Engaged Theatre, Music Composition and Performance Practice
Occidental College offers a rigorous BA in Performing Arts that emphasizes the integration of artistic practice with critical theory and social justic
Occidental's program is rigorous but niche; 'strong' overstates its national reach compared to top-tier programs.
Mount Holyoke College
South Hadley, MA · Private · LAC #34 · Department of Theatre & Performance Studies / Department of Music
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: — Grads/yr: 10
Tracks: Theatre Performance, Theatre Design & Technology, Music Performance, Music Composition
Research: Performance studies and critical theory, Historical musicology and ethnomusicology, Theatre design and technology innovation
Mount Holyoke's performing arts programs are distinguished by their deep integration with the Five College Consortium, allowing students to access res
Mount Holyoke's program is robust within the Five College Consortium but lacks a top-15 national ranking; 'strong' is to
Pitzer College
Claremont, CA · Private · LAC #36 · Theater Arts and Performance Studies
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: — Grads/yr: 1
Tracks: Performance Studies, Theater Arts, Music (as an elective or minor focus), Social Responsibility in the Arts
Research: Performance as Social Activism, Community-Based Theater, Interdisciplinary Performance Studies
Pitzer's Theater Arts program is distinctive for its heavy emphasis on the intersection of performance, social justice, and community activism, rather
Pitzer's program is a niche within the Claremont Consortium; 'strong' overstates its national standing.
Trinity College
Hartford, CT · Private · LAC #36 · Department of Theater and Dance; Department of Music
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: — Grads/yr: 11
Tracks: Theater Performance, Theater Design and Technology, Music Performance, Music Composition
Research: Performance studies and social justice, Hip-hop culture and global music traditions, Theater design and technology innovation
Trinity College distinguishes its Performing Arts programs through a deep commitment to social justice, particularly highlighted by the prestigious Tr
Trinity College's program is distinctive but lacks a top-15 national ranking; 'strong' overstates its national standing.
Scripps College
Claremont, CA · Private · LAC #44 · Theater and Dance Department
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: — Grads/yr: 1
Tracks: Theater, Dance, Performance Studies
Research: Performance studies and social justice, Contemporary dance choreography, Theater history and theory
Scripps offers a rigorous BA in Theater and Dance that emphasizes performance as a tool for social change and critical inquiry. The program leverages
Scripps has a rigorous program within the consortium, but it does not rank in the top 15 nationally; 'strong' overstates
Hillsdale College
Hillsdale, MI · Private · LAC #50 · Department of Fine Arts
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: — Grads/yr: 3
Tracks: Theater, Music
Research: Classical Rhetoric and Oratory, Western Musical Heritage, Theological Ethics in Performance
The Performing Arts program at Hillsdale is distinctively rooted in the Western Tradition, emphasizing classical rhetoric, oratory, and traditional mu
The Performing Arts program at Hillsdale is characterized by a small scale with only 3-5 music completions annually and

College-Fit Major Comparison · CounselorJay · Updated April 2026

Data sources: College Scorecard, US News, CSRankings, institutional websites, expert analysis