Typically, the two kinds of programs you’re going to find when looking at theatre colleges are Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA). Now these programs can make a very big difference in what your college experience will look like, so pay attention. 

BACHELOR OF FINE ARTS (BFA) 

BFA programs tend to be programs for those who are really serious about training to become working actors. There are BFAs usually in Acting, Musical Theatre, and at some schools, there are BFAs for theatre design/tech as well. The balance of these programs tends to lean more in favor of arts classes in your schedule instead of liberal arts classes or Gen Eds (General Education courses, the classes that are required of you to take during your time on campus). Typically the split is around 60% theatre 40% not, or if you’re in a more conservatory-style school like UNCSA or Juilliard, the split can get up to 80% theatre and 20% not. Be mindful of this while you’re picking programs, because if you’re someone who prefers taking a bunch of classes and learning as much random stuff as you can, pick a program that has a bit more leeway in the schedule. 

BACHELOR OF ARTS (BA)

BA programs are the more laid-back siblings of BFA programs. They function more like a minor in the sense that they leave much more room in your schedule and allow you to focus on a bunch of different subjects at once. These programs are GREAT for those who want to double major. BAs also have a tendency to include more experience in technical theatre in the curriculum! Things like scenic and lighting design are built into your education as well as classes in acting and dance. Unfortunately, BAs tend to be more focused on acting, there aren’t many BA programs for MTs. There are also some programs who market their BA as a kind of BFA, like UCLA. Overall, BAs are a great option for those who would like a typical college experience, and for those who want to play around more before they decide what they want to do.