The B.F.A. in Performance is a rigorous program fostering creative, cognitive, and artistic skills. This degree is comprised of two tracks, Acting or Musical Theater. Students can be accepted into either the Acting track or the Musical Theater track. It is intended to advance the education and training of motivated, curious, self-reliant, adaptable theater artists. Studio classes emphasize the authentic use of self, the reality of doing, the collaborative process and the acquisition and mastery of performance skills. Advanced courses introduce a wide range of approaches to the craft of performance and the further development of the actor's instrument.
We seek serious, disciplined students committed to rigorous training, who want the art of theater and performance to be at the core of their education. Students are evaluated at the end of each semester, and continuing status in the program is based on successful completion of all required coursework as well as positive evaluations from all performance area faculty. All theater majors are required to attain a minimum grade of C (2.0) in any theater course required for graduation. A student who is struggling academically or programmatically will receive a letter of concern or be placed on probation.
During the first two years, each B.F.A. candidate in performance should complete much of the theater core as well as the General Education requirements. Careful and consistent faculty supervision and advising are an integral part of the B.F.A. in performance.
Once accepted into the performance program, opportunities include a minimum of two significant acting experiences in our Theater programming, either in main stage offerings, studio or laboratory productions. Performance students may also work in the development and production of new plays. There is programmatic interaction with M.F.A. candidates in directing, playwriting, and acting. A wide range of internship, study abroad and off-campus opportunities are available for interested students.