Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Arts

Directing, Devising, Playwriting

The BA in Theatre Arts offers a breadth of experience and depth of inquiry. Majors take courses in theatre theory and practice including acting, directing, technical theatre, and dramatic literature. Designed for students who are focused on creating new works, this degree allows an emphasis in playwriting, dramaturgy, directing, and/or devising.

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How is the curriculum designed?

Students take a broad range of courses in theatre theory and practice, including acting, directing, technical theatre, dramatic literature, theatre history, and performance. Students can also gain experience in the program as assistant directors, dramaturgs, production crews, and in the classroom. Many direct, design, and perform student-devised works, participate in Theatre Arts Teaching Lab, and become involved with dramaturgy. BAs may participate in the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival (KCACTF) with their playwriting, devising, and dramaturgy work. Some of our program’s most exciting work results from residencies with internationally renowned guest artists and through our student-driven BA Ensemble.

What makes the BA different?

The BA in Theatre Arts is a liberal arts program, pairing well with a double major and/or a variety of minors. The BA in Theatre Arts offers a breadth of experience and depth of inquiry. It is designed for students focused on the creation of new works: playwrights, directors, dramaturgs, and scholars. Our graduates have continued their careers in graduate programs, producing, performance and teaching as well as work in casting, marketing, arts administration, dramaturgy, and applied theatre.

Is the BA in Theatre Arts right for you?

The Theatre Arts BA introduces students to a range of theatrical and performance practices. Students are prepared to apply for master’s programs, or to develop artistic or administrative careers in theatre. Our degree is a strong choice for students interested in arts administration, casting, producing, teaching theatre, or other paths that combine the business, humanities, and social science skills acquired in the theatre major. If you are interested in making theatre—being on stage and behind the scenes— building community and effecting change in the world—then the BA in Theatre Arts might be right for you.

Do students have opportunities to perform and/or design?

While performance in the season productions is not a focus of the program, students enrolled in the BA Theatre Arts program may audition for any of the performances for an opportunity to be cast in a role. Students are encouraged to involve themselves in their areas of interest and have numerous courses that may include experiences in acting and theatrical design throughout their degree plan.