Wilkes University
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Program Characteristics
Prescreen Required
No Audition
Interview Required
In-Person or Virtual
University App Required
Program Highlights
TRAINING PHILOSOPHY
•Intensive pre-professional program combining conservatory-style training with a liberal arts curriculum
•Small class sizes with individual instructor support
TRAINING & PRODUCTIONS
•Hands-on experience across more than 10 productions each year
•Training in sound, lighting, scenic carpentry, properties, costumes, scenic art, and stage management
•Professional development coursework including resume building, portfolio preparation, and interviewing
FACILITIES
•478-seat Darling Theatre with state-of-the-art lighting and sound
•Extensive costume and prop shops
•Black box theatre for experimental work
PROGRAM RECOGNITION
•Accolades and awards from the American College Theatre Festival (Kennedy Center)
Key Info
University AppApplication
Apply atCommon App
Apply atSchool Website
Deadlines
Early ActionDec 1, 2025
PriorityJan 15, 2026
Rolling
Program AppApplication
Auditions
On-Campus InterviewNov 15, 2025
On-Campus InterviewFeb 21, 2026
On-Campus InterviewMar 21, 2026
On-Campus InterviewApr 18, 2026
Prescreen Requirements
PORTFOLIO (required)
•Art and design samples showcasing your work
•Send portfolio materials to dpa@wilkes.edu
RESUME (required)
•Theatre resume with technical experience and training
LETTER OF RECOMMENDATION (required)
•One academic letter of recommendation
Good to Know
ENROLLMENT
•Fall enrollment only
•120 total credits required for degree completion
CONTACT
•Jon Liebetrau, Chair: jon.liebetrau@wilkes.edu / (570) 408-4442
What's The Process
ADMISSION PROCESS
•Two-step process: university acceptance first, then portfolio presentation and interview
•You must be accepted to the university before scheduling your interview
INTERVIEW FORMAT
•In-person portfolio presentation and interview on campus
•Virtual option available for students who live far from campus
SCHEDULED DATES
•November 15, 2025
•February 21, 2026
•March 21, 2026
•April 18, 2026
SCHEDULING
•Schedule via the Request for Audition form on the Division of Performing Arts website
•Scholarship awards determined on a rolling basis — interview early for best consideration
Scholarship Info
•Scholarship awards based on portfolio presentation and interview
•Determined on a rolling basis — interview early for best consideration
Program info updated Today
Academic School Information
3.50
Avg GPA (W)
91%
Admit Rate
60%
Grad Rate
1,893
Enrollment
$63,454
Earnings
10yr after
Tuition & Fees
$42,286
before aid
Average Annual Cost
$27,700
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$23,760
Family Income $30k - $48k$24,199
Family Income $48k - $75k$26,339
Family Income $75k - $110k$29,365
Family Income $110k+$31,745
