<p>Any discussion on ranking the best programs in MT is bound to get contentious. I would like to go on record as stating that the Princton Review or US News & World Report are not remotely qualified to comment on the state of MT in the academy. They simply do not have the a good perspective on something as relatively new to the academic world as MT. Many of these ratings folks do not get the difference between acting programs vs. music programs vs musical theater programs.
Soozie - I agree that Crane does not have any standing of great note in MT world. I do have to wonder about the many other discussions about other programs on these boards that do not offer BFA degrees in MT, for example, Northern Colorado, Northwestern, AMDA, CAP 21, and so on.
While I believe there are programs that should be considered as “first tier” because of sustained excellence of their alumni and recognition amongst producers, casting directors, and other industry professionals, I also believe that one can get a great preparation from various state and smaller institutions. It still, as always, depends on the “fit”, the work ethic of the student, the possibility of great triple threat instruction, and good mentoring.</p>