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Colgate University

Hamilton, NYPrivateRural
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Program Characteristics

No Prescreen
No Audition
No Interview
University App Required

Program Highlights

TRAINING PHILOSOPHY

Learn-by-doing approach through studio courses, rehearsals, and public performances
Integrates analytical, physical, emotional, and interpersonal intelligence
Curriculum spans acting, directing, theater history, stagecraft, design, playwriting, dance, and screenwriting
Cross-listed courses with the English department including Shakespeare and drama

PRODUCTIONS & PERFORMANCE

Up to four mainstage theater and dance productions per year
All students welcome to audition for productions regardless of major
Production participation carries a full course credit
Student theater and improv groups including Charred Goosebeak

FACILITIES

Dana Arts Center and Brehmer Theater
Award-winning faculty and close-knit department community

DEGREE STRUCTURE

Nine-course major with Senior Seminar capstone
40 hours of backstage or technical work required beyond coursework
Participation in at least one University Theater production required
Honors and High Honors tracks available

STUDY ABROAD

London study group: Theater and Performance on the International Stage

LIBERAL ARTS ADVANTAGE

9:1 student-to-faculty ratio with average class size of 17
200+ student clubs and organizations
Graduates pursue careers in theater, communications, media, business, law, and technology

Key Info

University App

Apply atCommon App
Deadlines
Early DecisionNov 1, 2025
Early Decision IIJan 15, 2026
Regular DecisionJan 15, 2026
Fee
$60Waiver
Waived for students applying for financial aid

Good to Know

APPLICATION OPTIONS

Common App, Coalition Application on Scoir, or QuestBridge Application accepted
Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) are optional

ENROLLMENT

Theater major declared after admission to the university
Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.00 required in all courses counted toward the major

What's The Process

ADMISSION PROCESS

No audition or portfolio required
Admission is through the university application only
Declare the theater major after enrollment — no pre-admission to the department
Program info updated Yesterday

Academic School Information

3.85
Avg GPA (W)
12%
Admit Rate
91%
Grad Rate
3,122
Enrollment
$85,139
Earnings
10yr after
Tuition & Fees
$67,024
before aid
Average Annual Cost
$29,107
after typical aid

Average annual cost is often lower than tuition because it accounts for grants and scholarships most students receive. It includes tuition, room & board, books, and supplies.

Annual Cost by Family Income
Family Income $0 - $30k$3,341
Family Income $30k - $48k$9,345
Family Income $48k - $75k$17,685
Family Income $75k - $110k$31,027
Family Income $110k+$53,119