Theatre vs. Radio/Television/Film

Colleges and Universities A-Z Northwestern University
1

So I’m planning on applying to NU early decision, but am not sure if I want to apply the Theatre or R/T/F route.

Right now I’m leaning towards Theatre because I really enjoy set design and lighting (which is my primary focus during high school); however, I’ve only started theater my sophomore year of high school and am not sure if I want to work only in the theatre for my career. I also enjoy screenwriting, filming, directing, and editing (which I do on the side for fun and for the student blog at my high school). I know that NU’s theatre program is much more renown than its Radio/Television/Film program so would it be better if I applied for R/T/F so that I have a better chance at getting in? NU is my top choice whether I do theatre or not (quarter system and location being a huge factor). Set design and production are really the only reasons why I’m considering theatre, but I feel like I would be happy on either track.

2

I don’t think I should advise you on which major to choose, but I just want to let you know that both of these programs (Theatre and RTVF) have a set number of people they let in the major per year, so if you get into one of those majors and want to transfer, there is no guarantee that you’ll be able to do it, at least in a timely manner (unlike the many transfer options at NU). I don’t know if transfers into these majors are ever denied, but they can definitely be delayed. One person I know waited a year or two to get into Theatre.

My advice: do what you truly want to do.