Degree Requirements
Completion of a BA in theatre requires a total of 120 credit hours, which includes a minimum of 39 credit hours in degree-specific requirements.
- 12 hours in theatre core courses
- 6 hours in production experience
- 6 hours in the laboratory
- 6 hours in history, literature, and theory;
- and nine additional credit hours at the 300-level or higher.
Performing Arts graduates are prepared for entry-level technical theatre, design, and performance positions. Many easily transition into a competitive Master of Fine Arts (MFA) and Master of Arts (MA) theatre programs upon graduation.
Through writing, research, and discussion-based classes, students learn to think critically and historically about the performing arts. Core theatre courses offer broad introductory and intermediate-level study in all areas of theatre art and production. Theatre majors can identify a specific area of concentration within the program's upper-level offerings—internships and independent research in acting, design, theatre technology, and dramaturgy for advanced students.
Students determine an area of concentration in consultation with a principal faculty member in their chosen field (acting, directing, design, stage management, technical production, dramaturgy, etc.). Practicum credit is given for approximately 40 hours of assigned work on any IU Northwest production. Students are encouraged to apply for significant creative and crew positions before the semester of a production. The department also offers elective courses in music and dance.
