COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Arts in Theatre at San José State University requires a total of 120 units and is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in acting, directing, design, performance, theatre history, and production. The program combines general education, college requirements, major coursework, production experience, and electives to develop both creative and academic skills needed for careers in theatre and related fields.The degree includes 25 units of Core Lower Division General Education, with some units potentially satisfied through major coursework, and 6 units of American Institutions requirements that may be fulfilled through selected GE courses. Upper Division General Education consists of 9 units. Students are also required to complete 2 units of Physical Education. The Graduation Writing Assessment Requirement (GWAR) is satisfied through 3 units, typically TA 100W, which focuses on writing in theatre studies. In addition, the College of Humanities and the Arts requires 3 lower-division units and 2 to 4 upper-division units outside the major to ensure academic breadth. University electives account for 20 to 22 units, allowing students flexibility to explore additional academic or creative interests beyond theatre.Major requirements total 48 units and are structured to combine foundational study, production participation, and elective specialization. Core coursework includes introductory theatre studies, dramaturgy and dramatic criticism, intermediate acting, stagecraft fundamentals, world theatre, and design or directing courses. Students also complete courses in performance for camera and may engage in internships for professional experience. A key requirement is participation in departmental productions, where students complete 9 units of upper-division production-related coursework, including Theatre Production Workshop and other performance-based or technical theatre classes such as acting, directing, storytelling, or musical theatre.In addition to core requirements, students complete 9 units of major electives, selecting from a wide range of courses in acting, directing, design, playwriting, voice and movement, stage management, theatre education, and related creative areas. This flexibility allows students to focus on specific interests and career goals. Overall, the BA in Theatre blends practical training, creative development, and academic study to prepare students for professional work in performance, production, education, and the broader entertainment industry.