M.S. in Business Analytics & Project Management
UConn's M.S. in Business Analytics & Project Management program is designed for...
B.F.A in Acting
Storrs
INTAKE: August
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) in Acting at the University of Connecticut (UConn) is a highly specialized and rigorous program designed for students who aspire to become professional actors in theater, film, television, and digital media. The program focuses on intensive conservatory-style training within a liberal arts education, allowing students to develop strong technical skills, artistic expression, and a deep understanding of the craft of acting. Through a combination of classroom instruction, performance opportunities, and hands-on training, students gain the experience needed to thrive in the competitive entertainment industry.
Curriculum: The B.F.A. in Acting curriculum at UConn is structured to provide a comprehensive foundation in acting techniques, voice, movement, and performance. Students take courses in classical and contemporary acting, scene study, improvisation, script analysis, voice and speech training, stage combat, and movement-based techniques such as Alexander Technique and Laban. The program also emphasizes audition preparation, on-camera acting, and professional development, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for careers in theater, film, television, and other performance mediums. In addition to coursework, students participate in university productions, workshops, and showcase performances that allow them to refine their craft in front of live audiences.
Research Focus: UConn’s B.F.A. in Acting program is deeply rooted in artistic research and exploration. Students are encouraged to engage in creative research that enhances their understanding of performance techniques, dramatic literature, and storytelling. The faculty, composed of experienced actors, directors, and industry professionals, provide mentorship in areas such as character development, dramaturgy, and performance analysis. Research opportunities also extend to studying various acting methodologies, from Stanislavski and Meisner to contemporary acting approaches. Additionally, students have access to resources within the university’s School of Fine Arts and collaborations with the Connecticut Repertory Theatre (CRT), where they can participate in professional-level productions.
Industry Engagement: The B.F.A. in Acting program at UConn places a strong emphasis on industry engagement and professional development. Students have the opportunity to work closely with guest artists, casting directors, and theater professionals through workshops, masterclasses, and networking events. The program maintains strong ties with regional and national theater companies, offering students internships, apprenticeships, and performance opportunities. Graduating students participate in an industry showcase in New York City, where they perform for talent agents, casting directors, and producers, increasing their visibility in the entertainment industry. This real-world exposure ensures that graduates leave the program with the experience and connections needed to launch successful careers in acting.
Global Perspective: Recognizing the importance of a global approach to acting, UConn’s B.F.A. in Acting program encourages students to explore diverse theatrical traditions and performance styles. The curriculum includes courses in international theater, multicultural performance practices, and voice and movement techniques from various global traditions. Additionally, students have the opportunity to participate in study-abroad programs and international theater festivals, where they can gain firsthand experience in global performance arts. These international experiences help students develop a well-rounded perspective on acting, storytelling, and cultural representation in the performing arts industry.
Location
Storrs
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 39678
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% or above in their previous academic qualifications.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 79 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 100.
The University of Connecticut (UConn) offers a range of merit-based scholarships to support international students in their academic journey. These scholarships are designed to recognize exceptional academic achievements and leadership qualities.
Global Excellence Award: This scholarship is awarded to international students who have demonstrated outstanding academic performance and leadership both in and outside the classroom.
Global Distinction Award: Similar to the Global Excellence Award, this scholarship recognizes international students with exceptional academic records and leadership abilities.
Global Leader Award: This award honors international students who have shown exceptional academic achievement and leadership qualities.
Graduates of the Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) in Acting program at the University of Connecticut (UConn) have access to a wide range of career opportunities within the entertainment industry. UConn’s comprehensive training prepares students not only to pursue traditional acting careers on stage but also to thrive in television, film, digital media, and more. The program’s emphasis on practical experience, performance skills, and professional development equips graduates to succeed in various creative industries.
Theater Actor: One of the most traditional and popular career paths for B.F.A. in Acting graduates is as a theater actor. These professionals perform on stage in a variety of settings, including regional theaters, Broadway, off-Broadway, and community theaters. They may specialize in classical, contemporary, or experimental theater, bringing characters and stories to life in front of live audiences.
Film Actor: Graduates with an interest in the film industry can work as film actors, performing in feature films, independent movies, and documentaries. Acting in film requires a different skill set compared to theater, including understanding the nuances of camera angles, close-ups, and subtle expressions. Film actors often work on set with directors, producers, and crew members to create a visual storytelling experience.
Television Actor: Television actors perform in scripted series, reality shows, or talk shows. They work with TV directors and producers to portray characters across episodic or serialized formats. TV actors can work in various genres, from drama and comedy to reality television and soap operas. The demand for TV content is continuously growing, providing numerous opportunities for trained actors.
Voice Actor: Voice acting is an exciting field that involves providing voices for animated characters, video games, dubbing foreign films, and voiceovers for commercials, documentaries, and audiobooks. Voice actors use their vocal skills to create unique characters and bring stories to life without being physically seen on screen.
Commercial Actor: Commercial actors specialize in performing in advertisements for television, radio, online platforms, and print media. These actors are skilled in delivering a compelling message or product pitch within a short time frame. Successful commercial actors often work with agencies to land auditions for national and regional advertisements.
Improv Actor: Graduates of the B.F.A. in Acting program with a strong interest in unscripted performance can pursue careers as improvisational (improv) actors. Improv actors perform live, unscripted comedy shows, often in small venues or as part of improv troupes. The ability to think on one’s feet and build scenes and humor spontaneously is key to succeeding in this genre.
Stage Manager/Director: Some graduates may choose to expand their career into stage management or directing. Stage managers are responsible for overseeing the logistics of a production, ensuring that rehearsals, performances, and technical aspects run smoothly. Directors, on the other hand, lead the artistic vision of a performance, working with actors and creative teams to shape the production from start to finish.
Casting Director: A casting director works behind the scenes to find and select the appropriate actors for roles in television shows, films, theater productions, and commercials. Graduates of the B.F.A. in Acting program with a strong understanding of acting techniques and industry practices may transition into this vital role, which requires excellent judgment and a deep knowledge of the talent pool.
Playwright/Screenwriter: For those interested in writing, B.F.A. in Acting graduates can pursue careers as playwrights or screenwriters, crafting original plays, films, and television scripts. A strong foundation in acting enables these writers to create authentic, compelling characters and dialogue. Many actors who transition to writing contribute to theater, film, and television as creators.
Producer: Producers manage and oversee the production of films, television shows, theater productions, or digital content. They ensure that projects stay on budget, meet deadlines, and align with creative goals. B.F.A. in Acting graduates with a passion for the production side of the industry can take on roles as producers, contributing to the overall vision and execution of performances.
Drama Teacher/Instructor: Graduates who are passionate about education can pursue careers as drama teachers or acting instructors. These professionals work in high schools, colleges, and universities, teaching acting techniques, performance skills, and theater history. Drama teachers also help students prepare for auditions and provide training in stage performance.
Theater Technician/Designer: Some graduates may choose to focus on the technical side of theater production, including costume design, lighting design, set construction, or sound design. These roles are essential to creating a fully realized performance, and theater technicians work closely with actors and directors to bring the artistic vision to life.
Performance Coach: Performance coaches work with actors to refine their skills, helping them improve their craft, voice, movement, and character development. These professionals may work with both experienced actors and those new to the industry, offering personalized coaching for auditions, performances, and film/tv roles.
Entertainment Publicist/Agent: Graduates with an interest in business and marketing may pursue careers as entertainment publicists or talent agents, helping actors navigate their careers and secure roles. Publicists work to manage an actor’s public image, while agents negotiate contracts and secure acting opportunities for their clients.
Entrepreneur/Creator: Some graduates decide to create their own projects or companies, producing independent films, web series, or theater productions. These entrepreneurial graduates use their skills as both actors and business owners to create new opportunities and content for the entertainment industry, often leveraging digital platforms to distribute their work.
