Drake University
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Program Characteristics
No Prescreen
No Audition
No Interview
Virtual Only
Under 12 Students
University App Required
Program Highlights
TRAINING
•Comprehensive design and support courses across all theatrical production areas
•Coursework includes scene painting, stage lighting, stage management, and CAD
HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE
•Design students serve as assistants to faculty designers
•Opportunity to design main stage productions
•Active involvement in all aspects of production work
PROGRAM SIZE
•Unofficial cap of approximately 4 BFA Design/Technology majors per year
Key Info
University AppApplication
Apply atCommon App
Apply atSchool Website
Deadlines
Early ActionDec 1, 2025
PriorityJan 15, 2026
Regular DecisionMar 1, 2026
Program AppApplication
Apply atAcceptd
Apply atSchool Website
Deadline
Audition Material DeadlineFeb 6, 2026
Auditions
On-Campus Audition (Des Moines, IA)Nov 21, 2025
National Unified Theatre Auditions (Chicago, IL)Feb 2, 2026
On-Campus Audition (Des Moines, IA)Feb 6, 2026
Submission Requirements
PORTFOLIO (required)
•At least 5 examples of your work
•May include drawings, paintings, slides, photos, renderings, light plots, prompt scripts, and play programs highlighting production involvement
•Graphic design work also accepted
•Should demonstrate artistic achievement and creativity
HEADSHOT (required)
•Upload a current headshot photo
RESUME (required)
•Resume of theater experience
Good to Know
APPLICATION PROCESS
•Must apply for admission to Drake University first
•University application and portfolio must both be completed for scholarship consideration
SUBMISSION OPTIONS
•Submit portfolio via Acceptd (fee applies)
•Free alternative available through Drake's audition registration portal
ENROLLMENT
•Fall enrollment only
What's The Process
PORTFOLIO REVIEW PROCESS
•No pre-screening — uploaded portfolio materials are your complete submission
•Department may follow up with a Zoom interview to get to know you better
CONTACT
•noah.files@drake.edu
Scholarship Info
•Fine Arts Scholarships awarded selectively to BFA Theatre majors
•Renewable for four years if criteria maintained
•Must complete both university application and portfolio review to be considered
•Not all accepted students receive a scholarship — awards are selective
Program info updated 4 days ago
Academic School Information
3.69
Avg GPA (W)
64%
Admit Rate
77%
Grad Rate
2,669
Enrollment
$71,901
Earnings
10yr after
Tuition & Fees
$49,944
before aid
Average Annual Cost
$30,042
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$27,372
Family Income $30k - $48k$25,335
Family Income $48k - $75k$26,358
Family Income $75k - $110k$32,215
Family Income $110k+$32,993
