Frequently Asked Questions

What is the admission process like?
Our auditions take place on the Pace University Downtown New York City Campus. We schedule auditions in two blocks (9:00AM-1:00PM, 2:30-6:30PM). An informational session with the Head of each program takes place between the morning and afternoon audition slots.

What is the most important factor when admitting a student into the program?
As an undergraduate training program, our applicant pool is diverse in experience, education, and exposure. As such, we look for applicants who demonstrate talent and potential. Many factors contribute to our decision.

I applied to Pace. How do I schedule an audition?
Once your application is logged, Admissions will email you audition materials. This may take as long as two weeks. If you have not received the materials two weeks after filing your application, contact Pat Woodward (pwoodward@pace.edu). All auditions must be scheduled in writing. We do not schedule auditions on the phone.

I am auditioning for Musical Theater. Will I also be considered for the Acting major?
To be considered for a major in BFA-Acting or BA-Theater Arts, you must schedule an additional audition.

Can I audition for more than one major on the same day?
Yes, but it may take the entire day to complete auditions.

How long will my audition take?
Depends on the major for which you are applying. See Auditions page for time estimates.

Can I still be accepted to Pace if I am not accepted to a major in the Performing Arts Department?
Yes, you may be accepted academically to Pace University, but denied a major in Performing Arts.

I received an acceptance letter from Pace. Does this mean I have been accepted into a major in Performing Arts?
No. You will receive a letter from the Performing Arts Department that will offer or deny you acceptance into one of our majors. You will receive this after you have completed your audition. All decision letters will be mailed no later than March 30.

If I am denied acceptance into a major in Performing Arts, can I audition again?
You may audition a total of two times for the Performing Arts Department.

How many theater/musical theater shows does Pace put up a year?
Pace Department of Performing Arts produces 4 full-length musicals and 4 full-length plays every year. The department supports student directing projects and a student-run theater organization that produce over 40 additional performing opportunities each year.

What is the size of the BFA Musical Theater and the BFA Acting programs?
The department admits between 25-30 BFA Musical Theater students and 25-30 BFA Acting students each year.

As far as curriculum, what do students do or are required to do freshman, sophomore, junior and senior year?
Our students must complete 60 credits of core curriculum as required by the University. BFA students must complete 66 credits of major courses that include acting, technical theatre, movement, theatre history, Film and TV, and several theatre electives of their choice. Musical Theater students must complete dance and music requirements including private voice instruction as well.

Are voice lessons available to students not enrolled in the Musical Theater program?
Unfortunately, our voice faculty serves the Musical Theater students only, but there are many opportunities to study voice in New York City outside of the Pace curriculum.

Does Pace have a cut system?
Pace does not have a cut system. The program relies on the constant contact and feedback of its faculty.

As far as performance experience, when is a student allowed to audition and/or be in a show?
Students are allowed to audition for campus productions the first semester of their freshman year. With faculty approval and support, students are allowed and encouraged to seek opportunities outside of school.

Is there a senior showcase?
Seniors are required to participate in Senior Showcase. Our Showcase attracts agents, directors, and managers from the New York theatre community.

What is the dance program for MTs like? How often do MTs dance? What classes do they take?
Music Theater students take courses in ballet, jazz, tap, theatre dance, choreography, and body awareness taught by the faculty of the Commercial Dance Program. There are a total of 8 required dance courses that Musical Theater students must complete over 4 years. We have recently added a dance minor to the curriculum. This opportunity is available to performing arts majors and non-majors alike.

Will I get written or oral feedback on my audition?
The Admissions Committee thoroughly reviews all applicants but neither oral nor written critiques of interviews or auditions are provided by faculty or staff involved in the admissions process. You will be notified at a later date about the Committee’s decision.