COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Performing Arts with a concentration in Design and Technical Theatre at Wichita State University requires a minimum of 120 credit hours and provides intensive professional training in theatre design, technical production, stage management, and live entertainment technologies. Students complete university General Education requirements along with a comprehensive curriculum that combines artistic creativity, technical expertise, historical knowledge, and practical production experience. The School of Performing Arts core includes courses in production processes, production experience, performing arts seminars, inclusion in performing arts, collaborative community projects, professional practices, and a capstone project. Students also complete foundational acting training to better understand performance and the collaborative nature of theatre production. Specialized coursework introduces script analysis, theatre design and technology, stage management, period styles, design drawing, rendering, and drafting. Technical training covers stagecraft, scenic technology, stage lighting, costume and wardrobe technology, scene design, lighting design, and costume design, enabling students to develop expertise across multiple production disciplines. Practical learning is a major component of the degree, with students participating in stagecraft and costume practicums, portfolio reviews, directed projects, and internships with professional theatre companies. These experiences allow students to apply classroom knowledge to real productions while building professional portfolios and industry connections. Theatre history courses provide an understanding of the development of dramatic arts and design traditions, while elective options allow students to explore specialized areas such as stage makeup, scene painting, management, digital media, audio production, sound design, entrepreneurship in the arts, drawing, sculpture, and visual design. The program emphasizes collaboration, problem-solving, communication, leadership, and creative innovation, preparing students to work effectively in professional production environments. Graduates are equipped for careers as stage managers, scenic designers, lighting designers, costume designers, technical directors, production managers, live event technicians, entertainment technology specialists, and theatre professionals. The degree also provides strong preparation for graduate study in theatre design, production, arts management, and related performing arts disciplines, supporting long-term career growth in the entertainment and cultural sectors.