The first step to choosing a program is deciding what kind of degree to get.  Then look for schools that have that degree track.

Visit the School

Before visiting, make an appointment with the head of the tech theatre program.  Get a tour of the theaters and shop facilities.  Even if you don't know much about what to look for, after touring a few facilities, you'll get a feel for which ones know what they are doing.  Ask to see pictures of productions.  If you are excited about the kinds of things you see happening on their stage, you are more likely to be excited about the education you will receive there.  Also, some private schools will provide a voucher that waives the application fee if you visit ahead of time.

Financial Aid

Discuss financial aid that might be specially available to theatre majors.   Some schools have small scholarships available for students who excel after the first year, but they want proof that you have what it takes first.

Some schools will offer a big package, but then if you get outside scholarships, they will still keep your expected family contribution the same, and just subtract your new scholarship from what they were offering you.  Keep an eye out for that, especially if you have outside scholarships.  Keep your loans as low as possible.  Getting started working professionally is the hardest part as networking takes time, so having huge student loan payments upon graduation will only encourage you to think about taking a non-theatre job.

Find Out About Alumni

What percentage of their alumni get jobs in theatre immediately upon graduation?  That will tell you a whole lot about the program.  Also, does the department have an alumni network that likes to keep in contact and help each other out professionally?  A strong alumni network can really help a lot with finding work and staying employed in theatre for years to come.

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