Academics
The Johnny Carson School of Theatre & Film blends rigorous coursework with hands-on experience, preparing students for careers in theatre, film, television and emerging media arts. Our curriculum emphasizes creativity and collaboration utilizing cutting-edge technology that equips students with the tools they need to excel in an ever-evolving industry.
Our Programs
Acting
Combine rigorous theatrical foundations, with a comprehensive on-camera training sequence, to prepare yourself to work confidently across stage, film and television.
Theatre
Empower yourself to become a bold, collaborative and entrepreneurial artist, through flexible pathways in theatre creation, leadership and management.
Theatre Design and Technical Production
Immerse yourself with hands-on training in technical direction, scenic, lighting and costume design using the latest technologies shaping the future of live performance and filmed entertainment.
Emerging Media Arts
Tell stories and create worlds across disciplines old, new and those still being discovered. Through filmmaking, interactive media, virtual reality, experience design, sonic arts, wearable technologies, AI and more, you will grow into creative leaders for an evolving world, graduating with the skills needed to tell the stories that matter.
M.F.A. Theatre Arts
Step into a visionary, three-year M.F.A. program that lives at the intersection of design, storytelling and technology—bridging live performance, film and emerging media. Deepen your creative practice in scenic design, lighting design, costume design or technical production while engaging with the evolving tools and platforms shaping 21st-century performance.
Beyond the Classroom
Our work extends well beyond the confines of the classroom. As a Husker, you’ll gain experience working in theatre productions, internships with leading industry professionals and attending national and international festivals. As a community, you’ll attend workshops, masterclasses with visiting artists and networking opportunities that expand your creative network.
Explore Opportunities
- Student Organizations
- Guest Artists
- Nebraska Rep Theatre
- Carson Lecture Series
- Education Abroad
- UCARE
- See All Opportunites
How We Support You
Faculty
Our world-class faculty brings the expertise, professional network and 1:1 mentorship you need to grow as an artist.
Studios & Spaces
From the cutting-edge Carson Center for Emerging Media Arts to the tranquil gardens of the Arts Quadrangle, our campus is a haven for creativity and artistic community.
Scholarships & Financial Assistance
Through scholarships and grant opportunities for new and returning students, the Carson School is working to provide a top tier, Big Ten education at an affordable value.