2024 Best Colleges with Acting Degrees in America

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  4,007 reviews

Sophomore: So far I have not started my sophomore year as I am transferring from Pepperdine University. However, from what I have heard, seen, and experienced from USC is that it gives students the opportunity to explore their creative and intellectual sides simultaneously. I recently attended a transfer orientation session and it was filled with school spirit and gave us transfer students an opportunity to connect with the school as well as with other transfers. This orientation was packed with exciting events that truly made each person who attended eager to get on campus in August. USC offers many different programs along with a variety of specific classes and clubs. I am excited to see how this year goes and I am looking forward to joining the many opportunities that USC offers their students!... Read 4,007 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 13%

• Net price $26,021

• SAT range 1410-1540

• Boston, MA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  3,594 reviews

Sophomore: I really enjoyed my time there! There are a lot of events for different types of people, like women and non-binary rock-climbing events, Asian student get-togethers, community fast breaking for Muslim students, Questbridge scholar movie nights, and many more. One thing I would like to see change is better advertisement and outreach for extracurriculars and clubs. Other than during Splash, it is difficult to see what kinds of different groups are doing and if you can join.... Read 3,594 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 19%

• Net price $25,852

• SAT range 1360-1520

• Austin, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.99 out of 5  6,702 reviews

Senior: I've had an amazing experience at UT. Pursuing a career in journalism, it's an honor to be studying at one of the best journalism programs in the world! I've learned so much from such amazing and accomplished journalists, and I've been able to grow my knowledge and journalistic writing and center in on exactly what path I want to go down in journalism. Along with that, I've been able to pursue other academic interests of mine through pursuing an additional degree in sociology and a certificate in human rights and social justice. I've been able to broaden my knowledge on the issues that plague marginalized communities around the world and through this I've been able to strengthen my reporting and story telling as a journalist. I've also completed four internships throughout my time at the university, and will be studying abroad in the fall! I've grown and gained so much during my time here, and I can't wait to see how much I'll learn and grow during my last year.... Read 6,702 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 29%

• Net price $16,589

• SAT range 1230-1500

• Coral Gables, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  3,028 reviews

Freshman: I'm having a great time at UM! Move-in is phenomenal; the school provides professional movers to help families unload their vehicles and get students' belongings to the rooms. Orientation programming is fun and includes a variety of activities for students and parents. Class registration for engineering students is completely stress-free. On top of it all, classes are going well. If I had to do all over again, UM would still be my #1 choice.... Read 3,028 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 28%

• Net price $34,492

• SAT range 1300-1460

• Seattle, WA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  4,614 reviews

Senior: Hello All, I am a student at the University of Washington's Seattle's Foster School of Business. The school of business has its own separate departments from UW, and I'm sure other major options are the same. For example, Foster has its own career center and there is a University-wide career center. All the resources can be overwhelming for students, so I recommend clarifying which department a resource came from. I think the required classes are great and the major options are fantastic. The libraries are phenomenal and useful. There are always activities and events. However, because of its location and events, the UW does attract a lot of tourists, I would recommend avoiding the Quad and Red Square during Cherry Blossom Season. Although Suzzalo is the most well-known library, it also attracts the most tourists, and it's hard to study while people are having a photo shoot, the Allen library is a better place to have an uninterrupted study session. Thanks for reading!... Read 4,614 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 53%

• Net price $8,701

• SAT range 1200-1470

• West Lafayette, IN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  5,060 reviews

Senior: Fantastic experience thus far. I have transferred from a lackluster institution and Purdue blows it out of the water. Academics within the Polytechnic Institute have been both challenging but rewarding to pursue by yourself--or better yet with others! Campus is beautiful and is rapidly expanding upon but more housing is needed on campus and by West Lafayette (thankfully downtown Lafayette is a great off campus place to be). Opportunities no joke pop up everyday due to the connections and reputation has for its students. And nearly everyone is both kind and helpful in every aspect of your academic career. Give it a consideration, you wont regret it if you love a bigger, but personable college experience!... Read 5,060 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 69%

• Net price $14,619

• SAT range 1190-1430

• Provo, UT•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.05 out of 5  8,566 reviews

Junior: Brigham Young University has an outstanding uplifting atmosphere that I love! The professors are caring and understanding, and overall amazing at helping students reach their academic goals. The campus itself is gorgeous--making time in between classes a delight. One of my favorite things about BYU is their first year student mentoring experience. Each and every freshman is assigned to a mentor that they meet with throughout their first couple semesters. The mentors are also students so it is very nice to have some sense of camaraderie. What I also love about BYU is that everyone is friendly. Whenever I needed help a kind soul was there with a smile. Prayers before classes start and the devotionals each week really invite the spirit which only enhances my learning. The commitment to lifelong learning and service is something that has been instilled in me from BYU's values and is something I will take with me long after I graduate.... Read 8,566 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 59%

• Net price $13,432

• SAT range 1220-1440

• Washington, DC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  2,211 reviews

Alum: I only attended GW for my final year of grad school (and entirely online because of COVID), but I absolutely loved all of the professors, students, and content that I came into contact with through the university. GWU was actually a very close second in my choices for undergrad, and I sometimes still wish I had chosen GW. The location is ideal for many majors and the city environment can be especially fruitful for those seeking to adapt to or continue to enjoy the more vibrant city life (as opposed to more rural campuses). The international and political exposure are particularly exceptional here. Overall, I’m very proud to have graduated from this wonderful institution. I think their excellent Student Success Services staff and generous financial aid alone show an impressive commitment to their students. Raise High!... Read 2,211 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 50%

• Net price $31,240

• SAT range 1310-1490

• Stillwater, OK•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.94 out of 5  3,678 reviews

Sophomore: I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Oklahoma State University. The professors invest into students and are clearly passionate about their areas of expertise. The school as a whole prioritizes its students by putting on events to get involved, offering academic support such as tutoring, and has an overwhelming sense of school spirit that makes OSU feel like home away from home. It is easy to get involved and meet those with common interests. As far as changes, there is not much that I would like to see different on my campus! One positive change would be increasing the dining options, especially for students with allergies. Additionally, lengthening the hours of operations for the dining halls would be greatly beneficial. All together, OSU has done an excellent job at meeting students where they are at and prioritizing not only their wellbeing but also providing a quality education.... Read 3,678 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 68%

• Net price $14,603

• SAT range 1050-1250

• University Park, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  7,502 reviews

Alum: I love nearly everything about this school! The sports are great, there are major entertainment events, art and religion are honored, there are over 1,000 student organizations, and I have had incredible professors consistently throughout my years (although peers in other majors did not always say this). In the area, there is hiking, skiing, several summer festivals, several thrift stores, and a high proportion of restaurants with different ethnic cuisines. Recommendation for change are prioritizing updates to dorm buildings and increasing accessibility to groceries downtown, as this is where a large number of students live (without their cars). It has many international students, but is otherwise limited in diversity. It mostly reflects the state/region, so I do not see this as something that necessarily needs to change.... Read 7,502 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 56%

• Net price $26,151

• SAT range 1160-1360

• Fort Worth, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.96 out of 5  1,712 reviews

Senior: TCU has an incredibly inclusive and supportive community. The professors genuinely care about their students and want their students to succeed. Many have their PhD, with years of real-world industry experience. They are great resources as mentors both in an outside the classroom. The school spirit of TCU is unlike any other school. Students are incredibly proud to be horned frogs and hold lots of school pride. This year, students have been calling TCU an "everything school" because of our success in academics and across all sports. TCU has a great campus, with state-of-the-art buildings and facilities. The dorms are well-equipped and updated, and the recreation center is a great facility. The dining hall food in the BLUU isn't great, but there's plenty of dining options on campus (a healthy smoothie bar, chick-fil-a, Peet's, flatbreads, etc.) and others on University Avenue. Fort Worth is full of culture and has great restaurants/places to explore. Overall great people, great place!... Read 1,712 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 54%

• Net price $42,574

• SAT range 1130-1350

• Storrs, CT•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  3,520 reviews

Freshman: I like the vast spectrum of extracurricular activities such as clubs and sports. There's a lot of fun things to do. I myself am in a few organizations, and I've enjoyed my stay here so far! I also like the medical programs they have to prepare you if you're a pre-med student. There are a lot of majors that tailor towards medicine, and they have a lot of resources you can go to. I will say the only real problems I've had are with dorming. It gets really hot in the summer, and you're not allowed to bring an air conditioner unless you have a medical condition which can be troublesome. I've also had a few problems with the cleanliness, but that may just be the specific building I live in. Overall it's a good college, although it has its cons.... Read 3,520 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 56%

• Net price $22,168

• SAT range 1230-1430

• Cincinnati, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  4,084 reviews

Graduate Student: As a current graduate of the University of Cincinnati, I am ecstatic to share my overwhelmingly positive experience! The university's commitment to academic excellence and supportive faculty truly stood out during my time there. The diverse and vibrant campus community fostered a welcoming environment, encouraging collaboration and cultural enrichment. Cutting-edge research opportunities and state-of-the-art facilities further enriched my learning journey. UC's emphasis on practical skills and real-world applications prepared me for a successful career ahead. I am forever grateful for the lifelong friendships and professional networks I developed. Without a doubt, the University of Cincinnati is an exceptional institution that has empowered me to achieve my dreams!... Read 4,084 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 85%

• Net price $20,827

• SAT range 1150-1350

• Malibu, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  1,350 reviews

Alum: Pepperdine University is incredible. I thoroughly enjoyed my time there - I loved my professors, loved the location, and loved the stunning campus. Everyone there was remarkably friendly, and when I switched my major to Art History, I felt very welcomed by the department and encouraged in the pursuit of my goals. My professors were eager to offer help and advice, and it was clear that they enjoyed their careers and loved teaching and mentoring students. The other classes that I took outside of my major (as part of Pepperdine's liberal arts curriculum) were also excellent. I found my religion classes (three required) especially fascinating; given that I was not a Christian student, all the material was new for me and quite enlightening. The classes I took for my minor - Creative Writing - were also fantastic, particularly my Spiritual Writing class (taught by an outstanding professor). I had an amazing time at Pepperdine, and in all honesty, wish I could go back!... Read 1,350 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 53%

• Net price $40,945

• SAT range 1260-1440

• Chicago, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  3,517 reviews

Freshman: The University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) is an amazing university for easing into the college life. You're not just thrown into all of the many college responsibilities at once, and they provide many resources for incoming and returning students to be successful during their four years at UIC. Even though a lot of students that attend this university are commuters, like myself, UIC provides a space for us to do work and it still feels like a community. They always have events taking place on campus and sometimes in other places around Chicago. The people here are nice for the most part and they ensure that no one has to deal with sexual misconduct, harassment, peer pressure, hazing, or anything else along those lines. UIC also has astounding programs that help keep students on track, express themselves and their identity through sexuality and or culture, and help sharpen skills in things that students are interested in. The campus is very diverse with all walks of life. Come join UIC!... Read 3,517 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $10,725

• SAT range 1080-1310

• Syracuse, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  3,543 reviews

Alum: Syracuse University is medium sized American university located in upstate New York with much to offer. Best known for its sports teams, such as basketball, football and lacrosse, the best part about the school was it's diversity in activities, fields of study and student body. Though the winters are cold, the School of Architecture is ranked top 5 in the country, and the hard work from students and faculty shows. With it's deeply historical roots founded in the fundamentals of architecture, the program prepares students to think critically, develop important skills, solve creatively and curates a network of alumni to set students up for career success. The five-year program offers a variety of exciting classes and allows for students to explore outside of the school of architecture - namely taking business courses at Whitman, learning about colors, spaces and psychology or dip their toes clothing design at the fashion school. Overall, the (orange) juice is worth the squeeze!... Read 3,543 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 59%

• Net price $43,545

• SAT range 1220-1400

• Baltimore, MD•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.57 out of 5  2,068 reviews

Alum: I really enjoyed my time at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC). I got involved in a scholars program, SGA, an LLC, and a couple of student organizations. I also attended both in-person and online during the pandemic. I think the school handled the pandemic really well. In terms of courses, my professors were all good, and kept the courses interesting. Though a lot of people do commute, there is a decent amount of things that occur for residential students. Overall, I had a great experience!... Read 2,068 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 81%

• Net price $6,912

• SAT range 1220-1410

• Bloomington, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  637 reviews

Freshman: I am an international student and I do like this University. I should note that weather and the environment here is pretty good, trees, greenery and fresh air can be found here. Regarding academics, professors are to the most part good with willingness to help and courseload is manageable. One more thing, if you are an international student Illinois Wesleyan is really generous when it comes to scholarships and financial aid. Definitely, do consider applying here!... Read 637 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 45%

• Net price $30,610

• SAT range 1110-1310

• Searcy, AR•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  1,066 reviews

Sophomore: Harding University staffs their faculty with professional teachers that genuinely care about you and your academic outcome. They advertise the community found within the student body; in a honest documentation of observation, they’re completely right! Harding’s campus community, safety, and faculty are welcoming, caring, and make a difference in my life. I know they could make a difference in yours too!... Read 1,066 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 54%

• Net price $20,533

• SAT range 1050-1300

• Omaha, NE•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  1,109 reviews

Freshman: I am currently a freshman at Creighton University. From the short time I have been there, I have seen that the community there is kind and caring. I have met many wonderful people that have made the change from home to college easier. People there truly care about you and will help you with any of your concerns. Aside from the people, the campus is small which helps one get to classes quickly from your dorm. It also allows you to get to know campus better and make stronger and lasting relationships. There are several clubs you can join. Currently I am in the EMT club which has allowed me to meet people who are interested in majoring in Paramedicine, but also get to learn some skills that will benefit you once you start EMT classes. I also work at the library which has given me another chance to meet new people and bond with my co-workers. Overall, my experience at Creighton University has been challenging but also exciting. I cannot wait to make more lasting memories!... Read 1,109 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 78%

• Net price $31,040

• SAT range 1130-1370

• Nashville, TN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  843 reviews

Junior: The professors are very kind, and they try their best to make you feel comfortable in the classroom. There will be times where your professors will sit down with you to have coffee, others will invite the entire class for lunch at their house! It gives you a chance to bond and really connect with the professor. A lot of the courses are challenging, but Lipscomb has a lot of great programs that help with those challenging courses. The labs are very interactive, and truly the best experience at Lipscomb. It teaches you material that you'll need later on in your career. Overall, Lipscomb is very worth it!... Read 843 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 74%

• Net price $26,614

• SAT range 1100-1270

• Philadelphia, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  5,781 reviews

Senior: I LOVE Temple University! Most of my professors have been nice, fair, knowledgeable and even passionate about what they teach. Temple has a gym on campus, which offers group fitness classes including yoga, cycling, and meditation, included in tuition fees. The healthcare I received on campus has always been stellar. The Disability Resource Services offered have been stellar, and the 24-hour TECH Center is a pleasure to spend days in while studying and working on projects. Temple has an app now where you can request a chaperoned walk home in person or virtually, as well as a nightly shuttle that circulates around the edges of campus for those in off-campus housing. Our Marching Band was one of my favorite extra curriculars offering an annual stipend when you join and you get to perform synchronized dances to pop songs at home games on Philly Eagles turf at the LINC. Temple has a strong community feel that makes you want to wear Temple gear and represent no matter your niche. GO OWLS!... Read 5,781 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 72%

• Net price $23,224

• SAT range 1010-1230

• Orange, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  2,270 reviews

Alum: Overall, I had a very positive experience going to Chapman. The campus was beautiful; there was always a new part of campus to discover with its unique layout. The professors provided such a positive teaching atmosphere that inspired students to ask questions. I always felt like the teachers went above and beyond to be available to help their students. The smaller class sizes helped foster a community that took pride in helping and reaching out to one another. The food on campus? DELICOUS! The cafeteria set up allows for students to eat and study or conduct group meetings thanks to the spacious tables with ample seating. Athletics at Chapman turns students into family. Teams would support each other and have lots of laughs on trips to games. Coaches would be mindful of student schedules and would establish a healthy balance between school and sport. Chapman was absolutely a delight to attend. If anyone is looking for a family away from family, this is it.... Read 2,270 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 60%

• Net price $40,451

• SAT range 1210-1410

• Chicago, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  3,670 reviews

Sophomore: Getting registered can be one of the most frustrating and stressful parts of returning to school. As a non-traditional student, I have had experiences at other schools that made me weary of returning. DePaul’s registration and acceptance process was a breeze! Every person that I have encountered at DePaul University has been extremely helpful and supportive. Attending DePaul University has been the best college experience that I have ever had. The staff are knowledgeable and are genuinely interested in helping the student achieve their goals. Overall my experience has been no less than awesome!... Read 3,670 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 69%

• Net price $31,872

• SAT range 1050-1260

• Lexington, KY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  3,963 reviews

Junior: I just transferred to the University of Kentucky this past week, and it has been nothing but amazing. I came from a university that genuinely does not have their students best interest at heart. The second I stepped onto campus in Kentucky it has been nothing but love radiated from everyone, from the students, to the staff and faculty, and everyone I have had the pleasure of meeting. You can tell that these people are actually happy and enjoy what they are doing. I was very nervous walking into orientation and meeting my advisor because I struggled a lot with my academics at my last institution. But my advisor was nothing but understanding, patient, and helpful. It has meant the world to be to somewhere where I not only feel comfortable but it already feels like home, and I can't wait for my time at the University of Kentucky!... Read 3,963 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 94%

• Net price $20,043

• SAT range 1080-1330