The USC School of Dramatic Arts breaks the mold on career preparation by housing the only dedicated Professional Development Center of its kind at a dramatic arts school in the nation. In an entertainment industry that continues to evolve at a rapid pace, this innovative center prepares students to navigate changing platforms and opportunities with confidence.
Led by two-time Emmy-winning casting director Debi Manwiller, the Professional Development Center offers comprehensive career services and development opportunities to help students establish and sustain successful careers as creators, performers and cultural innovators. The center moved into an expanded space in the renovated Dick Wolf Drama Center building in 2024, enhancing its ability to serve students at every stage of their academic journey.
Services Offered
- Professional Visual Materials: Free professional headshots with guidance on shot selection by industry veterans
- Self-Tape Resources: Access to a professional self-tape studio with blue screen, professional lighting, videographers and readers
- Industry Opportunities: Twice-monthly newsletter with audition notices, summer stock openings, internships and other opportunities
- Professional Development: Workshops on specialized topics such as contracts, video game voiceover work, motion capture and commercial acting
- Individual Guidance: Unlimited one-on-one career advice sessions with the center director
- Audition Preparation: Coaching sessions with faculty members for juniors and seniors
- Portfolio Development: Faculty assistance with assembling video highlight reels
- Industry Connections: Mentor matching service for seniors, pairing them with industry professionals who meet with them monthly during their final semester and after graduation
“Professional preparation isn’t just a practical consideration—it’s a moral imperative,” says Dean Emily Roxworthy. “What distinguishes our approach from other theatrical training institutions is our commitment to ensuring every student has the tools to translate their artistic talents into sustainable careers.”
The Professional Development Center also provides select opportunities for recent alumni of the USC School of Dramatic Arts. Actors without representation will receive job postings and referrals, submissions and follow-ups on appropriate projects for one year after successfully completing their degree, provided they were active in Professional Development Center programming as students.
These robust, curriculum-enhancing professional programs are vital to students’ long-term success in an ever-changing industry, and exist solely through the generosity of donors who support the USC School of Dramatic Arts’ commitment to comprehensive artist training.
Current School of Dramatic Arts students: Visit the student portal for more details and registration.