Theatre Arts Major

About our program

Merge your passion for performance with professional preparation — from your very first year, you'll be on stage and behind the scenes in productions that range from the classics to unexpected contemporary plays. 
 
You’ll learn the craft of theatre: acting, directing, design and technical production. Since we’re in the heart of Milwaukee's theatre district, you’ll have easy access to real-world experiences and internships. Your time here will nurture your talent and set you on a path to join other Marquette alumni on Broadway, in film, and on TV or pursuing graduate degrees across the country. And because our values are woven into everything we do, you’ll be able to use your talent to speak out for a better world. 

Johnston Hall, view from Wisconsin Avenue.

Johnston Hall, College of Communication

Benefits you’ll get from Marquette’s College of Communication

At the College of Communication, you'll be immersed in your discipline from your first day on campus, practicing in our studios and stages, connecting with alumni and other professionals, and marrying theory and skill to master changing technology and communication across fields. Get more hands-on experience through an internship—84% of our students do them. 

What can you do with a major in theatre arts from Marquette?

Most of our theatre arts graduates go directly into the industry. Here’s where some of our recent graduates landed.  

  • DreamWorks
  • 20th Century Fox
  • Carnegie Mellon University
  • Yale School of Drama
  • American Players Theatre
  • Broadway
  • Fox Network
  • Cleveland Playhouse
  • George Street Playhouse
  • Hilbery Theater
  • Milwaukee Repertory Theater
  • New York's Playwrights Horizon
  • Oregon Shakespeare Festival
  • Steppenwolf Theatre Company, Chicago
  • The Second City 

Collage image of Johnston Hall and students working in a television studio

Hands-on learning for career success

While you’re here at Marquette, preparing you for what’s next will be one of our top priorities. So, expect lots of learning by doing, connecting with others who share your passions, and reflecting on how you can Be The Difference.   

 

Spaces to learn

Starting day one, be a part of a busy main-stage production season, as well as film projects and studio productions. You can design and build sets, create costumes and bring characters to life. You will work with professionals in the classroom and on set to develop your skills from acting, lighting, scenic and costume design to technical production, stage and arts management. 

Marquette’s century-old Theatre program is accredited by NAST (National Association of Schools of Theatre) and has performances in our Helfaer Theatre, Varsity Theatre and Straz Tower theatre. 

 

Fine Arts minor

Supercharge your creativity, learn more about the arts and follow your artistic inspiration with a minor in graphic design or fine studio art. Both programs give you a unique blend of creative conceptualizing, execution, theory and technology. The fine arts minor is a collaboration between Marquette and the nearby Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design (MIAD).  

Learn more about our Fine Arts minor.

Internships

Put communication theory into practice and get real work experience, while exploring the career possibilities in theatre arts. Because we’re only blocks away from Milwaukee's theatre district, you’ll be able to collaborate or intern with professional companies like these: 

  • Milwaukee Repertory Theater
  • Chamber Theatre
  • First Stage
  • Renaissance Theatreworks
  • Next Act
  • Boulevard Ensemble 

Explore our internship experiences.

Diederich Experiences

Through the unique travel opportunities of the Diederich Experiences, you can engage with our amazing alumni from across the country who work in your specific area of interest. These distinctive trips build your network, introduce you to job options, and provide excellent insight and advice that will get you wherever you want to go. Annual experiences include LA, Chicago, New York and Puerto Rico, and cover several of our majors. 

Leadership learning

Good leaders communicate. And great communicators lead. Join our C-Lead program sophomore year and you’ll complete a combination of leadership development activities, mentorship and rewarding course work to unleash your leadership potential.
You'll make yourself a more competitive candidate and create relationships that will exponentially further your career.
 

Explore our C-Lead program. 

Study abroad

Expand your communication education with a semester abroad. Study program course work at prestigious universities around the world. Other international opportunities are available through core courses, summer study, language study, faculty-led programs or research. 

Check out our study abroad programs.

 

What to expect from a Marquette degree

A Marquette education equips students to thrive professionally and personally through overall student support, career preparation and an extended family that can't wait to meet you. But don't just take our word for it. 

#6

#6 Best College in Job Placement /#1 in Wisconsin

Zippia.com

#55

#55 in Student Outcomes

Wall Street Journal

#12

#12 Best Colleges for Internships

The Princeton Review (private universities)

Aerial of campus
 

Take the next step.