Acting for the Stage and Screen Major (BFA)

At Azusa Pacific University, our Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Acting for the Stage and Screen with a Musical Theater Emphasis offers a comprehensive, training program designed for aspiring performers who aim to excel in both the stage and screen as well as musical theater

This specialized emphasis combines the core acting curriculum with advanced coursework in singing, dance, and musical theater techniques. From day one, students engage in a balanced regimen that hones the three pillars of musical theater performance: acting, singing, and dancing. Our program is structured to ensure that students develop proficiency in all three disciplines, fostering versatility and depth in their craft.

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How to Apply for BFA in Acting for the Stage and Screen

You must audition to be accepted into the BFA in Acting for the Stage and Screen program.

Early Application Admission Deadline to Apply:

• December 1, 2026

Standard Decision Admission Deadline to Apply:

• February 20, 2027

The following application instructions are for:

All first-year and transfer candidates for undergraduate admission must complete the following:

1. How to Apply and Submit Pre-Screen Video Audition

The following materials are also required in order to be considered for admission into APU Theater Arts. Please be sure to upload all materials via Pre-Screen Video Audition Form. All first-year and transfer applicants for undergraduate admission must submit the following:

• Current picture or headshot
• Resume: Your resume should include a list of performance activities (including drama, dance and vocal performance). If you would like, you may also add any other non-performance work or volunteer experience.
• Pre-Screen Video Audition Form: Please use the Audition Form to upload your filmed materials. BFA in Acting applicants must submit two contrasting monologues; Musical Theater emphasis applicants must submit two contrasting songs and one contemporary monologue.

2. Audition Requirements:

All applicants to the BFA in Acting for Stage and Screen must upload their filmed audition materials to the supplemental application via the Pre-Screen Video Audition Form. BFA in Acting for the Stage and Screen applicants should provide two separately filmed monologues, while those with a Musical Theater emphasis are required to upload two contrasting songs and one monologue.

What to Prepare for BFA in Acting for the Stage and Screen:

Applicants should prepare two contrasting monologues. You can either prepare:

• One Shakespeare monologue and one contemporary monologue
• One dramatic monologue and one comedic

Each piece should be no longer than 90 seconds in length, memorized and performed.

What to Prepare for BFA in Acting with a Musical Theater Emphasis:

• One contemporary monologue, 60-90 seconds in length
• Two contrasting songs: One ballad and one uptempo, each a maximum of 60 seconds.
• Dance solo (optional)

Picking your Material

Choose a material that resonates with you and reveals something meaningful about who you are. Your monologues should correspond to characters suitable to your natural age range. To find audition monologues, you may use acting monologues from backstage.com.

Filming your Auditions

Your audition videos do not need to be professionally filmed, but they should provide a clear picture and audio. We understand that it may be difficult to find an ideal space to film your auditions and want to reassure you that where you film your pieces will have no bearing on your candidacy to this program. Below are some things we’d like you to keep in mind when you film:

• Make sure that you are in a well-lit area with minimal background distractions and that your audio is clear and understandable.
• Your contemporary or dramatic monologue should be filmed as a “close-up”. The frame should be sized to include the top of your head down to your chest.
• Your Shakespeare or comedic monologue should be filmed as a “full body” shot where the frame includes the entirety of your body.
• Each monologue should begin with a slate that includes: Your name, the title of the play, and the playwright’s name.
• Please do not add an accent or dialect when performing your monologues. We are much more interested in listening to your natural voice.

3 Tips from a Professional Faculty

Invited Interview/Callbacks with Faculty

After the Admissions Review Committee has reviewed all pre-screen submissions and decisions are made, the Theater Arts Admissions Office will email all BFA in Acting applicants an update on their application within two weeks of auditioning.

• This update will indicate if an applicant has been invited to attend a virtual or in-person Callback. A virtual option will be available for invitees unable to attend in person.
• ​​Early Admission Applicants:
  • Notification about callbacks will be in October, November, and December.
• Regular Admission Applicants:
  • Notification about callbacks will be in late January, February and March.

The following dates are only for those who have successfully completed the pre screening process and have been invited to audition on campus. Followed by a complimentary ticket to an APU Theater Arts performance or exclusive look at a rehearsal.

APU Undergraduate Application

• Complete your APU Undergraduate Application
• When prompted, select your desired BFA program:
  • For Acting: Theater Arts | Acting for the Stage and Screen | BFA
  • For Musical Theater: Theater Arts | Musical Theater Emphasis | BFA
• Submit a BFA in Acting for the Stage and Screen audition form
• Complete your FAFSA (does not apply to international students)

General Undergraduate Admission Requirements

Select an option below:

• First-time Freshman
• Transfer
• International

The Department of Theater Arts at Azusa Pacific University recognizes exceptional talent and potential in prospective BFA in Acting students through our Theater Arts Talent Scholarships. These awards are designed to support dedicated theater majors who demonstrate a strong aptitude and promise to significantly contribute to the vibrant theatrical community at APU.

Importantly, all students who submit their audition materials for program admission are automatically considered for these talent-based scholarships, streamlining the process and ensuring that your artistic abilities are recognized and potentially rewarded.

Theater Arts Exclusive Tours

Join us for an exclusive look at our theater arts program! Our tours include:

• A special theater arts tour
• A reception with faculty
• Lunch with BFA in Acting students
• The opportunity to audit a class

Parents and students are welcome to participate and discover more about APU theater arts. Each session is hosted by a member of our admissions team, who will introduce you to our unique program. We look forward to meeting you!

Theater Arts In-person Immersive Day

Join us on either October 23, 2026, or February 19, 2027! Spend the day with theater arts faculty and students. Join us for a university tour and department tour, connect with faculty, audit a class, have lunch with theater students, and see a production.

Immersive Day RSVP Form

 

Theater Arts Talent Scholarship

The Department of Theater Arts at Azusa Pacific University recognizes exceptional talent and potential in prospective BFA in Acting students through our Theater Arts Talent Scholarships. These awards are designed to support dedicated theater majors who demonstrate a strong aptitude and promise to significantly contribute to the vibrant theatrical community at APU. Importantly, all students who submit their audition materials for program admission are automatically considered for these talent-based scholarships, streamlining the process and ensuring that your artistic abilities are recognized and potentially rewarded.

The Theater Arts Theater Scholarship is a talent-based scholarship available to select incoming undergraduate students enrolled in the:

• BFA in Acting for the Stage and Screen
• BFA in Acting with Musical Theater Emphasis
• Theater Arts Minor

For more information, contact the Student Services Center at (626) 815-2020.

Scholarships and Grants

Scholarships and grants are considered gift aid, meaning they do not require repayment. These awards may come from federal, state, institutional, or private sources. Scholarships are often merit-based and awarded for academic achievement, leadership, or other demonstrated talents.

While APU does award scholarships, you can also find external scholarship opportunities through websites such as Finaid and Fastweb. Contact the Student Services Center about scholarships offered through APU departments or local organizations.

Student Employment

Along with gift aid and student loans, you can apply for on-campus student employment opportunities to earn additional income to pay for education-related expenses. As an APU student, you can also find work off campus in the surrounding community.

Military and Veterans Benefits

If you are a veteran, serve in the military, or qualify as a spouse or dependent, you may access financial assistance that helps cover the cost of tuition, housing, and books. As a Yellow Ribbon and Military Friendly School, APU offers the support and flexibility needed to help you complete your bachelor’s degree.

Net Price Calculator

We’re committed to helping you understand the value of the APU experience early in the college search process. Once you’ve explored the financial aid opportunities available, take the next step by estimating your cost to attend. The Net Price Calculator provides a personalized estimate based on the information you share, so you can start planning today!

Calculate Net Price

To view specific requirements and coursework information, visit the current academic catalog:

Program Requirements

Each spring, APU hosts an Industry Spotlight event at an acclaimed Los Angeles industry affiliated location giving graduating theater arts students in APU’s highly acclaimed program, an extraordinary opportunity to showcase their work on stage and film in front of talent representatives, and casting directors. The Industry Spotlight is an example of APU’s innovative approach to the arts—made possible because of our industry-connected faculty and close proximity to Los Angeles.

Read About the Industry Spotlight Watch Spotlight Video

Azusa Pacific University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).