COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting at Gannon University is designed to inspire academic and creative success by combining practical training with real-world knowledge. Students develop their acting abilities through key courses that focus on both stage and screen performance. In Performance for Stage and Screen, students learn the differences between acting for theatre and acting for film, gaining the skills needed to adapt their performance style to different media. The Stage Combat course introduces students to the craft of theatrical combat, where they practice and perform different combat techniques such as hand-to-hand fighting, dagger use, bo staff techniques, and sword and rapier combat. Another important course, Musical Theatre Acting, allows students to explore different musical theatre styles while learning how to adapt acting techniques for auditions and musical performances. These courses help students strengthen their creative expression, physical performance skills, and professional confidence.The program also focuses on helping students achieve their future career goals through hands-on experiences and flexible learning opportunities. Students can perform, design, and experiment with productions in the Schuster Theatre’s black box-style performance space, which provides an intimate and creative environment for theatrical performances. The program also encourages students to gain practical industry experience through internships in media and performance opportunities available locally in Erie and surrounding regions. These real-world experiences allow students to build professional networks and understand how the entertainment industry operates.Graduates of the program are prepared for a wide range of career paths in the performing arts and media industries. Possible careers include acting, producing, directing, content writing, social media management, academic teaching, performing in commercials, and writing for community and nonprofit organizations. Through a combination of academic learning, performance practice, and professional exposure, the program equips students with the knowledge, creativity, and experience needed to succeed in the evolving entertainment and media landscape.