COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Arts in Theatre at Southeast Missouri State University is a 47-hour major that does not require a minor and provides a comprehensive, practice-based education in performance, production, and theatre studies. The curriculum begins with foundational courses in rehearsal and production, theatre design and technology, script analysis, acting, stage management, and theatre history. These core courses ensure students develop both practical production experience and a strong understanding of theatrical literature and traditions.Students then build their skills through electives in performance, directing, playwriting, voice, movement, auditioning, and film acting. At least part of these electives must be at the advanced (300–400) level, allowing students to deepen their expertise in specialized areas of interest. Additional elective options also cover technical theatre disciplines such as stagecraft, lighting, costume design, scenic design, sound design, makeup, and production engineering, giving students a well-rounded understanding of both performance and backstage work.A required Shakespeare course further strengthens students’ knowledge of classical theatre literature. Overall, the program balances acting, design, technical production, and theatre history, preparing students for careers in performance, production, design, or graduate study in theatre and related fields.