<p>I just wanted to gather as much information as far as the requirements to transfer to Carnegie Mellon University’s Musical Theatre Program. Currently I am a freshman at Columbia College Chicago studying musical theatre. By the end of my first year I will have 32 credits. My GPA as of now is 3.8. I have a solid performing background. Extensive training in voice and acting. This is my first year training in dance (Ballet, Jazz, and tap). My high school grades are poor, especially in junior and senior year. I was wondering because of that should I first complete two years of college before trying to transfer. I am hesitant because If I was admitted I would have to start as a freshman again. I would realy appreciate the advice.</p>
<p>My understanding is solely based on others who’ve transferred into my daughter’s CMU class. You should check with the university for clarification. Here’s what I believe is the case:</p>
<ol>
<li><p>You will come in as a freshman whether you have one or two college years under your belt.</p></li>
<li><p>It’s all based on the audition. They won’t care what your high school GPA is.</p></li>
</ol>
<p>I hope you are primarily interested in developing as an actor because CMU’s emphasis is ACTING – not dancing and not singing. This is true for their MT students. So be certain you will be happy having acting being your primary focus. Otherwise, consider alternative schools.</p>
<p>Advice already given is correct but the biggest issue you already seem to realize: you will spend all four years in the CMU program, if admitted. I’d just add that, while CMU is well known for its acting focus within the highly selective MT programs, it is a fully developed MT program, with emphasis throughout on dance and singing. S graduated last year with lots of master classes focused on singing in particular, private voice lessons weekly, singing for the full department weekly, dance recitals and rigorous dance classes every term. He was able to take extra acting classes that he wanted to fit in as well. It’s not CCM or UMich in its primary focus on live musicals but it certainly is preparing its MT grads for NYC, if that’s where they want to work. On the other hand, if they want to end up on NCIS (Cote de Pablo), A Gifted Man (Patrick Wilson) or Law & Order: SVU (Tamara Tunie), their MT training certainly didn’t hold them back! Good Luck.</p>
<p>When applying to CMU MT program, from another college, should the Common App be for a freshman or transfer. I know that if accepted my D will be there 4 years, but confused on how to proceed regarding the Common App.</p>