
Best Theater Colleges & Programs in California
How are the Top Theater Programs Chosen in California
This content will be the same (or similar) across all major pages. Explain the criteria that these colleges were ranked by (student reviews, data from U.S. Department of Education, graduation rates, employment rates, etc).
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The University of Southern California is a high-research institution located in Los Angeles, California, where it’s been educating students since 1880. The university is comprised of two campuses, the main University Park and the Health Sciences...
University of Southern California is among the top universities in the country, and keeps getting better. The professors at the university are all at the top of their fields, and the extensive alumni list proves that the connections that you make...
” – Thomas from Houston, TX
The University of California in Los Angeles, better known as UCLA, is one of 10 campuses in the UC system. With 109 academic departments and more than 125 majors offered, as well as an average of one billion dollars funded for research every year and...
The amount of knowledge you will gain during your first year at UCLA will be more valuable than any previous experiences. First, there is the academic aspect. Essentially, the material being taught in college is the same for any school, so self...
” – Joanna from Carson City, NV
Founded in 1960, the University of California of San Diego is a research institution located in La Jolla, CA. The 1,200 coastal woodland campus along the Pacific Ocean is home to six undergraduate colleges, five academic divisions, 5 graduate and...
Teachers can be great, but you must go to class to actually learn. I never thought I'd be skipping classes, but it happens and I learned the hard way that this is NOT smart. Discussions with TAs can be incredibly helpful as well. I had a math class...
” – Current Student from San Diego Area
The University of California in Irvine was founded in 1965 in the town and state of the same name, and is the youngest member of the Association of American Universities. This high-research institution offers 92 majors and 86 minors and the campus is...
Being that I have only been at UCI for one year so far, I feel that I am really learning a lot from my professors and from the students that I have surrounded myself with. No matter where you are at, it is the people you are around that you can...
” – Emi from Temecula, CA
With a campus overlooking Malibu Bluffs and the Pacific Ocean, Pepperdine University is a 4-year Christian institution in Malibu affiliated with the Churches of Christ. Pepperdine is home to colleges of Business, Law, Arts & Sciences, Public Policy...
definitely an expensive school! but they're pretty good about financial aid and it's well worth it.
” – Rachael from Spokane, WA
The University of California in Davis is a public institution in northern California and one of the largest universities by enrollment in the UC System. UC Davis is home to four colleges conferring undergraduate degrees and six professional schools...
If your looking for a great learning experience, there is something important that you have to know, it all depends on YOU. So if you are, the advice I would give you and stuff you've probably already heard is to get to know your professor, research...
” – Vianey from rancho cucamonga, CA
The California Institute of the Arts is a private university that offers degree programs in visual and performing arts. CalArts offers degrees in more than 70 degree-granting programs in Art, Music, Dance, Theater, and Film, with all undergraduate...
Really awesome if you know what you want. This university is all about the business, you don't want to muck around waiting for someone to tell you what you're going to do.
” – Marvin from Norwalk, CA
California State University-Long Beach is a public institution and the most applied-to campus in the 23 campus CSU system. The university is home to eight schools, with a majority of students attending the College of Business and the College of...
I had a great orientation group my freshman year which taught me all the ins and outs of this place. The teachers here seem to have a real passion for their subject area. They're always available during their office hours and attempt to make their...
” – K. Lamb from Huntington Beach, CA
Founded in 1965, the University of California-Santa Cruz is a public institution and part of the University of California System. UCSC offers undergraduate degrees in 65 academic majors within departments of Arts, Humanities, Physical Sciences...
After completing my first year at UCSC - and most of my GEs - I feel that I have learned a lot in many different areas of study. The classes offered as general education requirements are both interesting and informative. I have only taken two of my...
” – Shannon from Petaluma, CA
Formed by a merger between Marymount College and Loyola University, Loyola Marymount University is a private school affiliated with the Jesuit religion and one of the largest Roman Catholic universities on the West Coast. Spread across 142 acres in...
The professors are all very down to earth. Professors here understand what information and knowledge is needed in the real world and wont try to fill your head up with unnecessary jargon.
” – Maribel from Los Angeles, CA
The University of San Diego is a private research university affiliated with the Roman Catholic church. USD offers 42 different bachelor's degrees and 54 minors, in addition to various study abroad programs, and more than half of the student body...
great academics
small class sizes will work with me (20-30)
professors care about their students

Chapman University is a private, liberal arts institution in Orange, California, that offers 110 areas of study through 11 schools and colleges. Chapman is also home to several independent research centers, as well as creative research centers...
Chapman University is an up-and-coming school, as seen through not only the expansion of campus facilities but the growth in student resources. Chapman will continue to grow for the simple reason that people with not just higher SAT scores but higher...
” – theCollegeKid
The University of California-Riverside is a public institution on 1,200 acres of land in Southern California’s Inland Empire. A part of the UC system, UCR is home to colleges of Humanities, Engineering, and Natural Sciences conferring undergraduate...
Academics at UCR is fast paced because it is on the quarter system, but that doesn't make it easier. Students are expected to learn the material and learn it fast. There are several ways to get help and to further understanding in a subject...
” – Kimberley from Tracy, CA
San Jose State University is the oldest public university on the west coast, and is the founding campus of the 23-campus California State University System. Located on 154 acres in downtown San Jose, SJSU offers more than 145 areas of study with an...
I have taken English 1A, Latino Identity (psycology), Remedial Math, and Intro to Sociology. English 1A is the GE English class required for undergrad students. My teacher, Mr. Mujal, was amazing. It was a small class of 25, and he made sure everyone...
” – Tatiana from San Francisco, CA
California State University-Fullerton is a 4-year public research institution in Orange County and a campus of the Cal State system. Cal State Fullerton has the largest student body out of any California State University school and has been...
The classes at Cal State University, Fullerton are fairly easy. I had expected college to be a lot more difficult, but CSUF has proved otherwise. Although the classes are not difficult, they have allowed me to grow intellectually. The professors...
” – Janet
Founded in 2005, the University of California-Merced is a 4-year public research institution in northern California and the first American research university opened in the 21st century. UC Merced is home to colleges of Social Sciences, Engineering...
Obviously, just like any other school, if you put your mind to it, study, and do the work, you'll learn. Putting in effort to what you want to accomplish is the key. I am currently a freshman and am about to finish my 1st semester here. I'm taking...
” – Gabriel from Hercules, CA
Centrally located near the beaches, mountains, and desert in the heart of Southern California, the University of Redlands offers more than 40 undergraduate programs, as well as 20 graduate programs. The unique combination of liberal arts, pre...
I just completed my freshman year here so I have not taken many classes, however, every class I have taken has taught me quite a bit. My favorite part about the classes is the size; even introductory classes are never above 40 students. In fact, I...
” – Alaina from Portland, OR
Founded by Jesuits in the mid-nineteenth century, the University of San Francisco is a private Catholic university and the first university established in the city. The 55-acre urban campus located near Golden Gate Park is home to 49 academic majors...
Considering the fact that USF has different types of students from different areas, I feel strong to say that I will definitely learn a lot throughout ethnicity, religion, and culture.
” – Laura from Tustin, CA
Founded as the first west coast Bible college, Azusa Pacific University is an evangelical Christian institution in southern California based on the Wesleyan holiness tradition. APU is home to 10 academic schools and colleges and the Azusa Pacific...
The courses at APU are amazing classes that stretch your intellect. I've learned so much over the course of the past year because my professors are wonderful people who know what they're teaching and are there for their students. APU is a Christian...
” – Audrey from Azusa, CA
Founded by the Church of the Nazarene in 1902, Point Loma Nazarene University is a Christian liberal arts college in San Diego. PLU offers undergraduate degrees in over 60 fields of study and the university’s Office of Strengths and Vocation provides...
The school has a great academic atmosphere. Because of the policy prohibiting drugs or alcohol on campus, students can focus on learning and enjoy their studies in a healthy environment. The school provides great opportunities for extra-curricular...
” – Adam Corfman from San Diego, CA
La Sierra University is a private nonprofit liberal arts college based in Riverside, California. It is affiliated with the Seventh-day Adventist Church. LSU is a member of the American Public Gardens Association and its campus is a designated...
I learned more at this school then any other I have attended. It is a great small school and I loved it!
” – Nikki from Perris, CA
Founded by the local archbishop, Saint Mary’s College of California is a Catholic liberal arts college in the Bay Area administered by the De La Salle Christian Brothers. Saint Mary’s is home to schools of Economics, Liberal Arts, and Science...
The Seminar Program is eye-opening and challenging. It pushes you to develop your own ideas and beliefs and challenge other students to do the same. The professors know you by name and have abundant office hours if you need help in class or just need...
” – Julianne from Yakima, WA
William Jessup University is a Christian, liberal arts university located in Rocklin, California. The university’s newly rebuilt campus received the Best Rebuild/Renovation Award from the Sacramento Business Journal, and features modern architecture...
William Jessup does a great job of making all students feel welcomed and apart of the small school community. This is a great school if you are looking for a Christian education with students and professors that actually care about you and your...
” – Chris from Orangevale, CA
California State University-Los Angeles is a 4-year public university and part of the CSU System. Cal State LA is home to seven colleges granting undergraduate degrees in 57 academic majors. A federally designated Hispanic-serving institution, Cal...
I am learning a lot. Many of teachers are helpful and enjoy having students take advantage of their office hours.
” – Ivette from Los Angeles, CA
With campus situated on a hilltop overlooking the surrounding community, California State University-San Marcos is a 4-year public institution in southern California and part of the Cal State system. CSUSM is home to colleges of Humanities, Business...
This is my second year at CSUSM and I'm love with my school. Ever since the orientation day the staff and student organization made me feel welcome. They showed me the school, the library, the cafeteria, the bookstore, the labs and the buildings...
” – Luis from San Diego, CA
Mount Saint Mary’s University is a women's college located in Los Angeles, California. This Catholic, 4-year institution's campus is nestled high in the Santa Monica Mountains and offers more than 30 majors and concentrations. MSMU puts particular...
The teachers really get to know the students and there is a lot of individual, personalized attention given to the students. There is a lot of help provided to everyone either with the teacher, students or in the Learning Resource Center where there...
” – Lucia from Los Angeles, CA
Founded in 1907, California College of the Arts is a Bay Area-based school of art and design with campuses in San Francisco and Oakland. CCA is home to 22 undergraduate programs in core disciplines of Architecture, Fine Arts, Design, and Humanities...
I am deeply passionate about art. I have been drawing since i was a baby, and my love for creating has only grown since then. My technical skills were sub par prior to attending CCA. In my first semester i learned how to draw, how to REALLY draw. it...
” – Matthew from Oakland, CA
California Baptist University is a private, Christian institution. With over 11,000 students, the 160-acre campus in Riverside, CA, features 10 schools and colleges that offer 80 bachelor’s degrees with Christ-centered curriculum in majors ranging...
Two of my favorite things about California Baptist University are the class sizes and the professors. You will have small classes and will have the opportunity to get to know your professors. I have only been at CBU for a semester but my largest...
” – Rebecca from Riverside, CA
California State University-Northridge is a public university in Los Angeles and one of the largest single-campus universities in the nation. CSU Northridge encompasses nine colleges and schools conferring 68 bachelor’s degrees. Additionally, CSUN...
The activities and parties are a lot of fun to participate in and the people are really fun to hang out with.
” – Kirk from Northridge, CA
Situated in the foothills of the Santa Monica Mountains, California State University-Channel Islands is a 4-year public school and part of the CSU system. CSUCI grants undergrad degrees in 26 academic majors and has been designated an Hispanic...
Professors here tend to give you a feeling of knowing the next day will not be the same. Your learning something new everyday, and it also includes the beginning of the school. It is wonderful that it could be mixed with the material that you are...
” – Jose from Oxnard, CA
Pacific Union College is a private, Christ-centered institution established in Napa Valley, California. While the college offers both undergraduate and graduate programs, the vast majority of students in attendance are undergraduates. PUC is part of...
PUC is a beautiful campus with a strong academic program, friendly students and helpful faculty. You will learn a little bit of everything there is to know about the world and a whole lot about yourself.
” – Anonymous
Founded in 1871, the San Francisco Art Institute is a college of contemporary art and the oldest art school in the western United States. SFAI confers undergraduate degrees in eight artistic fields of study such as Printmaking and Sculpture. All...
This college has incredibly talented teachers that are still working in their field. There has also been many famous artists that have graduated from this school.
” – Gail from SF, CA
The Academy of Art University is a for-profit college of art and design in San Francisco and the largest private school dedicated to training artists in the United States. The Academy of Art University confers bachelor’s and associate degrees in 22...

National University is a private not-for-profit institution with multiple locations throughout California and one campus in Nevada. NU provides concentrated programs aimed at adult learners with courses scheduled on weeknights and weekends. The...
National University has a wide range of courses. Their instructors are quite diverse in knowledge and experience. Ever since I transferred here I stopped screwing around and got my academic path together, you kind of have no choice but to succeed...
” – Andrew from La Quinta, CA
The American Musical and Dramatic Academy is a performing arts conservatory with a Los Angeles campus in the heart of Hollywood. The LA-based campus offers Professional Conservatory and Bachelor of Fine Arts degrees in Music Theatre, Dance Theatre...
The Training at this institution is incredibly educating. The instructors are industry professionals who have known this business for years. At AMDA you get the foundation you need as an artist to succeed in the industry. The coursework is very...
” – Simeon from Rock Hill, SC
Modesto Junior College is a public, 2-year institution located in the state of California. While the college primarily awards associate’s degrees and certificates, it also offers Skills Recognitions options and a singular bachelor’s degree program...
Had some of the best teachers here!
” – Elizabeth from Tracy, CA
Founded in 1955, Cerritos College is a 2-year community college in the greater Los Angeles area and one of the five largest community colleges in LA County. Cerritos is home to 87 associate degree and certificate-granting programs in over 180...
Cerritos is a great place to start off if you dont really know where you want to go or what you want to do for your future. The professors are nice and help you as much as they can, they want you to learn and will not make you feel dumb. They treat...
” – Gloria from Maywood, CA
Glendale Community College is a public, 2-year institution established on a 100-acre campus in southern California, with three satellite centers throughout the region. GCC offers over 80 associate degree and certificate programs, many of which are...
Glendale Community College is one of the oldest, yet popular community college for locals living in Glendale, La Crescenta, La Canada, Burbank as well as for international students. They offer many courses depending on the major you plan to pursue or...
” – The Wise Student
Moorpark College is a 2-year community college with open admissions based in Ventura County, California. The school operates an on-site zoo for the Exotic Animal Training and Management program, the only one in the nation, and is also home to the...
Great teachers! Most of whom have been in the professional world. There are tons of interesting classes as well!
” – Zachary from Moorpark, CA
Cuesta College is a public 2-year community college based in San Luis Obispo County and serves the Central Coast of California. Cuesta offers associate degrees as well as technical and professional certifications. Noted programs include health...
Cuesta College is one of the top community colleges in California, located just outside of Beautiful San Luis Obispo, CA. If you are interested in Nursing, Music and the Arts, History, or Engineering, Cuesta college is a great great place to start...
” – Jacob from Atascadero, CA
Founded as a training center for civilian soldiers in World War II, American River College is a 2-year community college in California’s state capital of Sacramento. ARC confers associate degrees and certificates in over 80 academic fields of study...
I am currently studying as a music major at American River College. The teachers are excellent and push you to become a better musician. For a community college, we have teachers that are willing to help their students through the internet, office...
” – Jessica from Sacramento, CA
San Diego Mesa College is a public community college based in San Diego, California. It is the largest community college in the city and part of the San Diego Community Colleges District. Noted programs include culinary arts and food service...
The professors here at Mesa are amazing!!! The professors and students alike are very helpful here. Academics are a major aspect of this college. If you want to go to a college where the students are friendly, the professors strict but helpful, many...
” – Amy from San Diego, CA
The American Academy of Dramatic Arts in Los Angeles opened in 1974, a sister campus to the original New York one founded in 1884. The American Academy of Dramatic Arts teaches the process and preparation of acting as a craft through “an immersive...
Yes. I will learn a whole lot about theatre arts and acting.
” – Jessica from Irvine, CA
San Joaquin Delta College is a community institution established in Stockton, California. The school offers programs to complete a wide variety of associate degrees, certificates, and workforce training, with its primary focus being STEM and the arts...
the instructors are helpful and supportive. They aren't afraid to review and give out extra credit. They are willing to meet with students outside of class but they aren't afraid to really pile on the homework.
” – Alejandra from Stockton, CA
Foothill College is a public, 2-year institution established in Los Altos Hills, California. Foothill’s 122-acre main campus is joined by a satellite learning center located in Sunnyvale, which features its own cafe, group study area, and a miniature...
After going to De Anza College for a year and not enjoying myself at all, I decided to try Foothill College and it has been one of the greatest decisions I've made. Most of the teachers are professors and they are all very supportive, motivational...
” – Megan from Santa Clara, CA
Coastline Community College is a 2-year institution with three neighborhood campuses in Orange County, California. Coastline is home to 25 degree and certificate-granting academic programs including a Gerontology Program. The college’s Acquired Brain...
i love it there. It's really nice and it feels the comfortable. I like how it's a small school.
” – Crystal from Anaheim, CA
Los Angeles Pierce College is a 2-year community college. It is a branch of the Los Angeles Community Colleges and, as a result, enjoys transfer agreements with many California universities. The school provides associate’s degrees and Certificates of...
Pierce College deserves a rating of eight out of ten because the college itself does a fantastic job preparing their students for success. It encourages students of all ethnic backgrounds, regardless of their financial status to have the opportunity...
” – Student
Long Beach City College is a 2-year community college in the greater Los Angeles area. LBCC consists of two locations: The Liberal Arts Campus and the Pacific Coast Campus. A member of the California Community Colleges, LBCC is home to 11 academic...
I was planning on going straight to a four year university right after graduating from high school but life had its way (this time) and I, not to happily, applied to go to LBCC. Now a student I can honestly say this school turned my frown upside down...
” – Vanessa from Long Beach, CA
Pasadena City College is a 2-year community college based in Pasadena, California. It operates four satellite campuses, the Northwest campus, Rosemead campus, Foothill campus, and a Child Development Center. PCC has an open admissions policy and a...
After I graduated from High School I knew that going to a community college was my only option. A lot of people told me that it would be High School all over again, and I believed them that were until I finished my first year of college and started...
” – Jeffrey from Arcadia, CA
Founded in 1916, Riverside City College is a 2-year community college in southern California’s Inland Empire. RCC offers associate degrees and certificates in over 70 academic programs. For students who wish to learn in a different culture, RCC...
RCCD is a very good community college. this school is a good way to save money while earning your associates degree or before transferring to university. i am in my second semester of college and so far i feel like i have learned so much. this school...
” – Farryn from Moreno Valley, CABy State
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