Skip to main content
Vanderbilt University logo

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TNPrivateCity
Test-OptionalLGBTQ+ AffirmingGreek Life

Select Program

Program Characteristics

No Prescreen
No Audition
No Interview
University App Required

Program Highlights

TRAINING & PRODUCTIONS

Four-show season with all roles filled by students — acting, directing, and backstage
Neely Auditorium: flexible black box theatre with proscenium, thrust, and arena configurations
Intimate performance space with fewer than 250 seats per production
Qualified students may earn the opportunity to direct a main-stage production
Guest artists and Vanderbilt alumni regularly contribute to productions and classes

STUDENT LIFE

Free tickets to Nashville professional theatre productions
Career development workshops and alumni networking events
Spring break travel to theatre-rich destinations

DEGREE FLEXIBILITY

30 credit hours — allows double major in another department
Honors program with senior thesis and oral defense
London Maymester course experiencing professional theatrical performances

Key Info

University App

Apply atCommon App
Apply atQuestBridge
Deadlines
Early DecisionNov 1, 2025
Early Decision IIJan 1, 2026
Regular DecisionJan 1, 2026
Fee
$50Waiver

Program App

Deadlines
Early Decision INov 1, 2025
FAFSA Priority (EA/ED I)Nov 1, 2025
Merit Scholarship DeadlineDec 1, 2025
Early Decision IIJan 1, 2026

Good to Know

APPLICATION PROCESS

Apply to Vanderbilt via Common App, Coalition App, or QuestBridge
No supplemental theatre application or audition materials required

ENROLLMENT

Fall enrollment only
Major is declared after enrollment — not selected during the admissions process

What's The Process

ADMISSION

No audition or portfolio required for admission to the theatre major
Students are admitted to Vanderbilt through the university application process
Auditions for productions are open to all enrolled Vanderbilt students

DECLARING THE MAJOR

Declare during 3rd or 4th semester of residence (typically by spring break of sophomore year)
Complete the Declaration of Major form and have it signed by your theatre adviser
Contact: Department of Theatre, Buttrick 003B, (615) 322-8668
Program info updated 4 days ago

Academic School Information

3.89
Avg GPA (W)
6%
Admit Rate
93%
Grad Rate
7,143
Enrollment
$91,565
Earnings
10yr after
Tuition & Fees
$63,946
before aid
Average Annual Cost
$19,040
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$5,797
Family Income $30k - $48k$4,729
Family Income $48k - $75k$6,211
Family Income $75k - $110k$14,780
Family Income $110k+$42,754