Best colleges for a passionate future musical theater major

Hello there! I am extremely passionate about musical theater and want to get into a college that's renowned for this major. I want to make sure I'm making the right choice. Any suggestions or insights?

Absolutely! If your focus is musical theatre, there are quite a few reputable programs you might want to consider:

1. Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) is highly regarded as one of the best programs in the country for musical theater. The BFA in Musical Theater program is known for its rigorous coursework and its faculty of seasoned professionals.

2. University of Michigan houses a top-notch Musical Theatre BFA program, with a strong emphasis on performance and practical training. Many of its graduates have led successful careers on Broadway and beyond.

3. Juilliard needs no introduction. It's tremendously well-regarded and has a rich history in producing well-rounded performers. It's highly competitive, and the program is intensive.

4. The Boston Conservatory at Berklee offers an excellent BFA Musical Theater program with a comprehensive curriculum focusing on acting, music, and dance.

5. Tisch School of the Arts at NYU offers a BFA in Drama, through which students can specialize in musical theatre. The major advantage here is the NYC location, with ample exposure and access to the theatre industry.

However, it's not enough just to consider the reputation of the program. It's important to additionally factor in things like the faculty, the location, potential for performance, access to professional networks, and the school's overall fit for you personally.

Finally, bear in mind that college rankings shouldn't be the be-all and end-all of your decision process. Sometimes the so-called 'best' program may not be the best fit for you specifically. Spend some time attending open houses, speaking to students and staff, and doing your research to learn more about the culture, resources, and opportunities these programs provide.