James Madison University United States

B.A. in Theatre with a major in Musical Theatre

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

The B.A. in Theatre with a major in Musical Theatre at James Madison University is designed for aspiring performers who seek rigorous, professionally focused training within a comprehensive university education. You will immerse yourself in the interdisciplinary art of musical theatre, developing essential skills in acting, dance, voice, performance, and audition technique. This program cultivates your unique artistic voice while providing a deep understanding of musical theatre history, analysis, and collaborative production, preparing you to engage meaningfully with the performing arts landscape.

This full-time, on-campus undergraduate degree is structured over four years, blending intensive studio work with theoretical coursework. You will participate in musical theatre laboratories, jazz dance classes, private voice instruction, and performance analysis, alongside studies in music theory and world theatre history. In your final year, you will complete a senior seminar or honors project, culminating in a strong portfolio and the practical experience needed to pursue professional careers in musical theatre, regional theatre, Broadway, film, television, or arts education.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Bachelor of Arts in Theatre with a major in Musical Theatre program offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to train aspiring performers. Students will engage in foundational and advanced studies across acting, dance, and vocal techniques, alongside essential theatre production and analysis courses. The program progresses through four years, building skills in performance, music theory, and historical context, culminating in specialized auditioning preparation and senior seminars.

1 First Year

Performance Production Compulsory
Performance Analysis Compulsory
Acting I: Basic Acting Compulsory
Musical Theatre Laboratory Compulsory
Jazz Dance Compulsory
Group Voice for Musical Theatre Concentrators Compulsory

2 Second Year

The Collaborative Artist: Sophomore Studio Compulsory
Design Aspects of Performance Compulsory
Acting II: Intermediate Acting Compulsory
Music Theatre Performance Compulsory
Music Theatre History and Analysis Compulsory
Intermediate Jazz Compulsory
Keyboard Skills Compulsory
Keyboard Skills II Compulsory
Private Voice for Musical Theatre Concentrators Compulsory

3 Third Year

World Theatre Histories, Texts and Performances I Compulsory
World Theatre Histories, Texts and Performances II Compulsory
Auditioning for Musical Theatre Compulsory
Introduction to Music Theory and Aural Skills Compulsory
Private Voice for Musical Theatre Concentrators Compulsory

4 Fourth Year

Senior Seminar in Theatre Compulsory
Senior Seminar Compulsory
Honors in Theatre Compulsory
Auditioning for Musical Theatre Compulsory

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,906.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,906.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,906.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,906.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 127,624.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 525.00 - USD 1,604.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,000.00 - USD 4,560.00
Transport USD 600.00 - USD 1,200.00
Utilities & Bills USD 960.00 - USD 1,800.00
Estimated Total USD 4,560.00 - USD 7,560.00

Living cost estimates are based on Harrisonburg Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

98%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Amusement & Recreation ServicesEvent Promotion & ManagementFilm & Television ProductionGaming & Interactive MediaLive Events & ConcertsMuseums & Cultural HeritageMusic & Performing ArtsSports & AthleticsTalent & Artist ManagementTheme Parks & Leisure

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Cora Dance

SAG-AFTRA

The Walt Disney Company

Why Study B.A. in Theatre with a major in Musical Theatre at James Madison University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Life at James Madison University in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about B.A. in Theatre with a major in Musical Theatre at James Madison University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during the term and full-time during breaks without a separate work permit. Off-campus work may be allowed after the first year with university approval.

What English language score do I need for this course?

Applicants must meet specific English test requirements such as a TOEFL overall score of 81 or an IELTS overall score of 6.5. Ensure your scores meet the criteria before applying.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can work as performers, theatre teachers, choreographers, directors, or musical supervisors.

What will I actually study in this course?

The Musical Theatre program offers intensive training in acting, dance, and voice, alongside mentorship to develop your unique artistic voice. Students will also explore technical theatre and musical theatre history, enhancing their collaborative skills.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

Intake months for the B.A. in Theatre with a major in Musical Theatre are January and August. Ensure to apply ahead of time to secure your spot in the program.
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