The Tepper Semester is a unique program from Syracuse University’s Department of Drama that offers undergraduate students in advanced levels of acting, casting, design, directing, dramaturgy, musical theater, playwriting, producing, stage management, and theater management the opportunity to immerse themselves in a rigorous artistic training program in the culturally rich setting of New York City. 

Arielle Tepper
Arielle Tepper

The Tepper Semester is named for its founder, Tony Award-winning theater and film producer Arielle Tepper ’94, a Syracuse University drama alumna who also established the department’s Tepper Center for Careers in Theater. The program welcomes qualified applicants from other schools, colleges, and universities.

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The Tepper Advantage

  • Live and study in the heart of the New York professional theater scene. You will take classes at Syracuse University’s Fisher Center, with musical theater dance classes held at Broadway Dance Center. Attend up to 30 productions on and off Broadway that expose you to numerous genres of theater. Learn about the artistic process from industry professionals who attend your classes on a weekly basis for workshops and discussion.
  • Learn from the best. The Tepper Semester features a faculty of prominent industry professionals. Take advantage of unprecedented opportunities to develop valuable relationships with exceptional artists in the industry. As an immersion experience, this professional preparatory semester creates the base of a national arts network for emerging artists.
  • Build a critical understanding of the profession through daily artistic training. In addition to core classes, your curriculum is rounded out with numerous master classes with industry professionals, including master teachers, actors, casting directors, agents, composers, writers, designers, stage managers, and production staff members.
  • Receive one-on-one attention. Our supportive, nurturing environment helps build confidence and focus.

About the Program

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Casting Apprenticeship Program

As the casting director’s contribution to film, television, and theater becomes ever more acknowledged by the entertainment industry, it is natural that the same should be true of the profession itself. In an ongoing effort to maintain a high standard of professionalism and artistic integrity within the field, the Tepper Semester and Casting Society of America (CSA) have constructed a unique, premier apprenticeship and training program for college and graduate students. In the changing climate of the modern business model, we feel a responsibility, as professionals and educators, to foster the next generation by identifying, developing, and training a select group of young people who show a unique aptitude and keen interest in casting for film, television, and/or theater.


Frequently Asked Questions


Director and Staff

Erica Jensen, Director
Casey O’Neil, Academic Operations Coordinator