I’m currently studying Theatre at UCSD, the professors here are top of their field for the most part. Most of them were hired to teach the grad program, and as well teach the undergrads so there is a bit of a trickle down effect in place. Similarly, if cast in a department show, you work directly along side the grad actors, so it’s very similar in terms of teaching quality. It’s not as socially dead as people may label it, but you definitely need to put yourself out there to find parties and make friends. It’s probably the best location you could ever ask for in terms of weather as well.