The Old Globe and University of San Diego Shiley Graduate Theatre Program Ranks Among the Best Drama Schools in the World

The renowned Old Globe and University of San Diego Shiley Graduate Theatre Program was recognized by The Hollywood Reporter as one of the best drama schools in the world in an article published in May 2026.

The program ranked #5 in MFA programs, #8 in the United States and #12 in the world. Since its inception in 1987, it has grown into one of the most acclaimed classical training programs both within and beyond the nation. Each year, seven students are accepted into the highly competitive two-year program, which comes with free tuition and a monthly living stipend. 

Led by Craig Noel Distinguished Professor and Lunt-Fontanne Fellow Jesse Perez, the program centers around classical training and Shakespeare with an emphasis on students bringing their own unique spirit into characters. "You don't have to arch yourself up to something classical," says Perez. "You can bring those words down to yourself and see how they resonate and make it sound real for you."

The University of San Diego’s partnership with The Old Globe offers graduate students an opportunity to perform at a renowned theatre in San Diego. During the MFA students’ first year, they have the opportunity to develop new works at the Powers New Voices Festival for playwrights. Second-year students in the program travel to London to attend workshops with the British American Drama Academy and Shakespeare’s Globe.

Recent alumnus Vandous Stripling II ’24 reflects on his experience in the program. "It’s a lot of work, and it requires a lot of dedication — we’re like monks on a mountain," says Stripling. "One of the greatest gifts is that I grew as an actor in this program, but I also grew as a man and a human being."

This program would not have been possible without a transformative gift from Darlene Shiley. Looking ahead, Perez hopes to continue partnering with Shiley and is committed to leading this highly regarded program, which represents decades of vision, dedication and investment and will continue to make a lasting impact for years to come.