COURSE CURRICULUM

The Theatre Studies program at Wright State University is designed as a flexible, interdisciplinary liberal arts degree that blends academic study of drama with practical experience in performance and production. It prepares students for a wide range of careers in theatre, education, media, public service, and other fields by developing strong communication skills, critical thinking ability, and cultural awareness. Students learn to analyze dramatic works within historical, literary, and production contexts while also gaining hands-on exposure to technical theatre areas such as costumes, lighting, sound, and stage management. The program emphasizes collaboration, encouraging students to understand how writing, directing, acting, design, and technology interact in professional theatre-making. Graduates are expected to demonstrate competence in at least one area of technical theatre, apply fundamental performance techniques, and recognize potential employment pathways or opportunities for advanced study in theatre arts. The curriculum also highlights real-world learning through internships, production participation, and coursework that connects theory with practice. Students must complete general education requirements in writing, mathematics, humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences, alongside major-specific courses such as stagecraft, directing, theatre history, and design fundamentals. In addition, they select electives from diverse areas including dance, film studies, stage design, costume construction, and stage management, allowing them to shape their education around individual interests. The program also includes methods of inquiry and research components that strengthen analytical and academic writing skills. With approximately 120 total credit hours, students graduate with both breadth and specialization, making them adaptable to different career paths. The program encourages further academic exploration through minors, certificates, or graduate study, while also supporting students who wish to enter the workforce directly. Overall, Theatre Studies provides a balanced foundation of theory, creativity, and applied theatre skills that equips graduates to participate meaningfully in artistic, educational, and cultural industries.