Bachelor of Arts in Drama

The major in drama provides a balanced mix of study and practice, understanding and process, thinking and doing. Students will enjoy the opportunity to take on a variety of roles in the production process, and to expand their knowledge of theatre history and dramatic literature. Our program also provides useful skills for those planning to pursue graduate school or professional training or to work in a theatre arts specialization. Drama majors often complete double majors in combination with many other departments and programs. Learning Objectives Drama In order to prepare students to pursue professional goals not only as artists and educators but in any field they choose to enter, we have designed our drama curriculum and production program to achieve the following objectives: To develop each person's creative process and empathic imagination To increase self-awareness To become an astute observer To embrace risk-taking To develop techniques and standards of theatrical artistry To develop, apply and challenge aesthetic criteria To develop research and analytical skills in the creation of original work To write with clarity and a keen critical sense To acquire historical perspective and an understanding of theatre as an interpretive art To understand the performative function of dramatic texts To acquire skills in interpersonal communication and effective collaboration To think precisely in the moment To speak confidently in public To develop flexibility and adaptability To develop empathy and listening skills To develop a working knowledge of the conventions of the physical theatre and all elements of production To understand the individual and collective roles of a production team To learn the technical aspects of production through hands-on experience To implement organizational and problem-solving skills To understand the unique history, theory and practice of theatre and performance through intellectual and experiential investigation To develop the ability to understand how theatre relates to society To examine the connection between theatre and civic engagement in different eras, cultures and societies To approach drama and theatre as a mirror