Theatre Arts

Degree Requirements - Design/Technology Degree Requirements - Integrated Degree Requirements - PerformanceDegree Works

Note: Degree requirements effective for enrolled students beginning Fall 2023. All enrolled students, including matriculating students prior to Fall 2023, can review their degree program requirements and track progress to degree completion with our degree audit and advisement tool, Degree Works.

There are five primary student learning outcomes for the major:

1. History/Criticism/Literature: Graduates of the program will recognize and be able to communicate about trends and characteristics in theatre history, dramatic structure, dramatic styles associated with various periods, and the work of important theatre practitioners and utilize this knowledge in meaningful ways as part of their creation of an artist’s manifesto to guide their ongoing artistic endeavors and vision.
2. Knowledge of Design Process: Graduates of the program will have a working knowledge of the theatrical design process and the basic skills necessary to develop initial design ideas, research and present the design ideas, and collaboratively integrate them into an initial design concept presentation.
3. Knowledge of Acting: Graduates of the program will have a working knowledge of the practice of acting and the basic skills for performance.
4. Rehearsal, Construction, and Performance: Graduates of the program will demonstrate a working knowledge of appropriate rehearsal, construction, and performance practices through application in theatrical disciplines in a collaborative production setting.
5. Specific Theatrical Discipline: Graduates of the program will demonstrate appropriate skills for future personal and professional success in a specific theatrical discipline or area.

You'll select from one of three areas of concentration:

• Performance: An in-depth exploration of skills in acting and directing.
• Design/Technology: A concentration that prepares students as scenic, costume, sound, and lighting designers and technicians.
• Integrated: A concentration for those interested in exploring both Performance as well as Design and Technology to create an experience tailored to their specific goals.

Studio classes in all concentrations are intentionally small, usually with 16 or less students, so you will receive lots of personal attention and detailed constructive feedback to help you grow as an artist. In addition, you'll be offered specialty courses such as Career Seminars to prepare you for the world of professional theatre, Theatre Forum that provides professional development opportunities, as well as other specialized seminar courses.  Recent topics have included Musical Theatre, Acting for the Camera, Applied Theatre, Dramaturgy, New Play Development, and Voice Over Acting.