Choosing the Best Colleges for Theater and Music: A Comprehensive Guide

Choosing the right college is a significant decision for any student passionate about theater and music. With a wide array of institutions offering diverse programs, narrowing down your options can be a daunting task. This article explores the top colleges that offer robust programs in theater and music, beyond just engineering or computer science (CS)-oriented content.

Understanding Your Goals

The first step in choosing the best college for theater and music is understanding your personal goals. Are you seeking a major in theater or music, or are you planning to pursue it as an extracurricular activity? Most of the top universities listed are not heavily performance-oriented, and Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degrees are not universally available in these schools, except perhaps Northwestern. However, students can still excel in these disciplines through a combination of coursework and extracurricular activities.

Harvard University

Harvard, one of the most prestigious universities in the world, is a prime example of a school that transforms a once-neglected field into a vibrant academic pursuit. Until a few decades ago, theater was not part of the academic curriculum. However, the university now offers a dedicated theater major. Despite this, extracurricular theater remains incredibly active. A surprising number of students, even those not majoring in theater or music, go on to pursue careers in these fields. This includes individuals like myself, who briefly pursued a brief stint in theater before going on to other avenues.

Stanford University

Stanford University stands out for its balance between a highly rigorous academic environment and a strong emphasis on creative pursuits. The university’s music and theater departments, though smaller in comparison to some larger institutions, are dedicated and highly regarded. My daughter, for instance, is minoring in both music and theater while majoring in psychology. Stanford’s music department offers private lessons through adjunct faculty members, providing students with personalized training and development beyond the classroom.

Yale University

Yale University, known for its illustrious reputation in the arts, houses its drama school, which is world-renowned. However, Yale currently offers only an MFA (Master of Fine Arts) in drama rather than a BFA. This means that for undergraduate students interested in pursuing theater, Yale may not provide the same level of direct support as those at some other institutions. Despite this, Yale’s theater programs remain highly respected and attract a diverse array of talented students.

Northwestern University

Northwestern University, particularly through its School of Communication, offers a comprehensive theater program and a robust music school. The theater program, in particular, is notable for its size and quality, making it an excellent choice for students dedicated to theater and music. Northwestern’s music school, with its dedicated faculty and facilities, provides students with an immersive experience in the arts.

Beyond the Top Schools

While these top universities offer excellent programs, there are other schools worth considering. Institutions like Pomona College, despite being less familiar to some, have small but dedicated programs in the performing arts and theater. This makes them an attractive option for students who prefer a more intimate academic setting.

Conclusion

Choosing the right college for theater and music is a personal decision that should consider your academic goals, personal interests, and future aspirations. Each of the schools discussed here—Harvard, Stanford, Yale, and Northwestern—offers unique programs and opportunities within the theatrical and musical realms. Whether you seek to major in these fields or simply pursue them as extracurricular activities, there is a wealth of resources and support available to help you achieve your goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are you talking about undergraduate or graduate school?
In at least two of these universities, the undergraduate program has no direct relationship to the graduate school. For example, Yale offers an MFA in drama but does not have a BFA program for undergraduates. Similarly, while Northwestern has an undergraduate program in theater through its School of Communication, its music school is also known for its strong postgraduate offerings.