Students looking to study theater can pursue a bachelor of arts degree in performing arts or a bachelor of fine arts in subjects such as musical theater or acting. B.A. programs are best for students who want to take classes in acting, directing and stage makeup but also want to purse a second interest in teaching or the humanities. The B.F.A. is preferable for college students who want to focus solely on performance. Many theater students go on to become actors, writers, drama teachers and set designers.
If you're looking to go to a large college, you can join the over 40,000 students at Florida State University in Tallahassee. Florida State's school of theater offers bachelor's and master's degree programs that prepare students for a variety of professional careers. The school has three theaters and a fine arts annex, providing ample performance space for all students. Notable Florida State theater alumni include Gerald McCullough of CSI.
Barry University is a smaller school located in Miami Shores with a highly-rated theater program. Students can choose to specialize in dance, acting or theater publicity. Seniors with 90 or more credits can obtain internships that count as college credits and help them make connections for jobs after graduation. All Barry University theater students must complete a senior seminar project before graduation.
Attending theater school in Florida provides professional opportunities for theater majors. Major theme parks, including Disney World and Universal Studios, provide internship and employment opportunities for students and graduates. Many movies are also filmed in Florida because of its beautiful beach settings and palm trees. Theater students can build their resumes by acting as extras in films or by winning roles at one of the many dinner theaters located throughout the state.