The competition for jobs, particularly acting, remains keen, but the record of UCSB drama graduates is impressive.
Some graduates establish their own theatres.
Two which continue to grow since their beginnings in the mid-1970s are the San Diego Repertory Theatre and Santa Barbara's Ensemble Theatre. Prior to their senior year many students begin working summers at the Oregon, Utah and Colorado Shakespeare Festivals, Pacific Conservatory of the Performing Arts, and Santa Rosa Summer Repertory Theatre. In addition to professional theatre, many graduates work in film, television, radio, commercials, and modeling. There are also opportunities, particularly in design and technical theatre, for employment by opera and dance companies or by amusement industries. The drama major may also seek teaching opportunities in secondary and higher education.