<p>Just a note about CMU. A wonderful program! THey do not, however, offer to match merit awards from other schools. They offer to look at FA awards (need based) from “peer” universities. In other words, if you are admitted to a school they consider a peer (and CMU is currently ranked 23 on USNWR) and if you are offered a larger need based award than you get from CMU, they will take another look. They no longer guarantee to meet it, I hear. That said, they do have a MFA in design, so you will not be able to design university productions until later. My son loved this program and I think it is amazing, just pricey for those whose dads make over $300K.</p>
<p>In fact, sadly, your dad’s high income will likely eliminate the chance for you to receive need-based aid at any school. With that in mind, you will need to ask your father how much he is willing to spend on college for you. If he says zero, and means it, I’m not sure how you will afford more than a community college without big big debt. This is the right time to tackle this question.</p>
<p>When it comes to receiving very large merit aid, you can get a full tuition scholarship at U Alabama (I don’t know anything about their theatre program) if you are a NMF. USC has a wonderful theatre school and the undergrads do all designing. My son is there now and was offered a show his first semester (asst set designer)! They automatically give 1/2 tuition scholarships to all NMFs who are admitted, and with your great stats and terrific theatre design background, you would look awfully good to them. You can choose a BFA or BA in design or stage management, btw. And yet, even with 1/2 tuition, USC will cost your family about $38K per year, including room & board. College can be very expensive and you fall into a difficult spot vis a vis financial aid.</p>
<p>What about UCLA? In-state tuition plus r&b is about $34K/year. It’s a great BA, with lots of school spirit too. However, UGs do not get to design productions.</p>
<p>I agree with posters who have recommended Purchase and CCM, but I am not sure how out of state tuition, travel, plus r&b measure up.</p>