Major & Minors

Our curriculum combines academic courses in theater with participation in the productions of plays from past and present. In addition to the requirements below, we encourage you to consider independent study and research opportunities, global education, and graduation with distinction.

The major in Theater Studies offers students instruction in both (1) the relationship of theater to the cultures that produce and consume it through the study of dramatic literature, theater history, and performance studies; and (2) the collaborative theater arts (dramatic writing, acting, directing, design/theater technology, and production), with a particular interest in the ways in which these two areas inform each other.

While the Theater Studies major offers students preparation for graduate study, advanced theater training, or entry-level work in theater and related professions, it also offers a basic understanding and appreciation of the literature, history, and practice of theater for a student who desires a liberal arts education.
 

Requirement:
10 Theater Studies Courses

One gateway course:

  • Theater Studies 145S (Acting)
  • Theater Studies 187S (Reading Theater)
  • Theater Studies 125S (American Musicals)

Six area studies courses:

  • One course from Area 1: Acting, Directing
  • Three courses from Area 2: Dramatic Literature, Performance Studies, Theater History
  • One course from Area 3: Design, Theater Technology
  • One course from Area 4: Dramatic Writing

Three additional Theater Studies courses at the 200-level or above

Requirement:
5 Theater Studies Courses
  • Theater Studies 187S (Reading Theater) 
  • Four additional Theater Studies courses at or above the 100-level

The minor in musical theater is designed to train students in the artistic and critical study of musical theater. Students pursuing the minor will learn the fundamental techniques of musical theater performance, direction, and design and will undertake rigorous study of the genreā€™s formal structures as well as its cultural significance. Particular attention will be given to the performative dimensions of the genre, with discussions of how musicals engage issues of gender, sexuality, race, assimilation, nationality, and religion. By studying a theatrical genre that integrates drama, music, dance, and visual design, students will be asked to undertake collaborations and academic studies that are fundamentally interdisciplinary in nature.

Requirement:
5 Theater Studies Courses

Two courses in musical theater history and literature:         

  • Theater Studies 209 (Forms of Musical Drama)
  • Theater Studies 125S (American Musicals) 

Two courses in musical theater practice:

  1. Theater Studies 211 (Musical Theater Workshop: Performance) or Theater Studies 241 (Cabaret Workshop) or Theater Studies 346 (Voice and Body Gesture Theater)
  2. Theater Studies 212 (Musical Theater Workshop: Creation) 
  3. Theater Studies 255S (Directing)

One additional course (in musical theater practice or an academic seminar in a topic related to musical theater. (If you are unsure if a course qualifies, please consult with your Theater Studies advisor or the DUS.)