B.A. in Secondary Education: Communication and Theatre Arts Teaching

The B.A. in Secondary Education: Communication and Theatre Arts Teaching at Eastern Michigan University is designed to prepare students for a rewarding career in teaching communication and theatre arts at the secondary school level. This interdisciplinary program combines rigorous training in communication and theatre with essential pedagogical skills, ensuring graduates are equipped to inspire and educate high school students in these dynamic fields. The program emphasizes practical teaching experience, creative expression, and educational theory, preparing future educators to foster students' abilities in communication and performance.

Curriculum: The curriculum for the B.A. in Secondary Education: Communication and Theatre Arts Teaching includes a blend of coursework in communication, theatre arts, and education. Students study fundamental principles of communication, performance techniques, dramatic literature, and stagecraft. They also take education-focused courses that cover topics such as instructional methods, classroom management, and curriculum design. The program integrates hands-on experiences through student teaching internships, where students apply their knowledge in real classroom settings, developing their teaching skills and gaining practical experience.

Research Focus: The B.A. in Secondary Education: Communication and Theatre Arts Teaching encourages students to engage in research that enhances both the educational and artistic aspects of the program. Research opportunities may include exploring innovative teaching methods for communication and theatre, studying the impact of drama and performance on student learning, and investigating new trends in communication practices. This focus on research helps students contribute to advancements in educational practices and performance studies, enriching their understanding of effective teaching strategies.

Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is a vital component of the program, providing students with valuable connections and practical experiences. The program partners with local schools, theatre companies, and communication organizations to offer internships, observational opportunities, and collaborative projects. These experiences help students build professional networks, gain insights into the industry, and apply their skills in real-world settings. Engaging with industry professionals also allows students to stay updated on current trends and practices in communication and theatre.

Global Perspective: The program incorporates a global perspective by addressing international trends and issues in communication and theatre arts. Students explore diverse cultural approaches to communication, performance, and drama, and examine how global perspectives influence artistic expression and educational practices. This global outlook prepares students to appreciate and incorporate different cultural viewpoints into their teaching, fostering a more inclusive and globally aware educational environment.

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each component.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 61 or higher.
• PTE: Overall score of 44 or higher.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): Overall score of 95

Scholarships for International Students at Eastern Michigan University

Global Leadership Scholarship: EMU offers the Global Leadership Scholarship to exceptional international students. This scholarship is competitive and based on academic merit. It provides partial tuition coverage.

International Student Tuition Scholarships: These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement and may cover a portion of the tuition fees for international students.

EMU Foundation Scholarships: International students can also apply for scholarships offered through the EMU Foundation. These scholarships are typically based on academic achievement, leadership, and community involvement.

External Scholarships: EMU encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities, such as those offered by government agencies, foundations, and international organizations. The ISSO (International Students and Scholars Office) can assist students in finding these opportunities.

Departmental Scholarships: Some academic departments at EMU offer scholarships specifically to students within their field of study. International students should inquire with their respective departments for such opportunities.

Cultural Scholarships: EMU recognizes and values diversity. As a result, there may be cultural scholarships available to international students from specific regions or countries. These scholarships aim to promote cross-cultural understanding.

It's important for international students to meet the eligibility criteria and application deadlines for these scholarships.

Graduates of the B.A. in Secondary Education: Communication and Theatre Arts Teaching from Eastern Michigan University are equipped to pursue diverse and impactful career paths in education and the arts. This program’s combination of communication and theatre training with pedagogical skills opens up several exciting career opportunities.

High School Communication Teacher: Graduates can become high school teachers specializing in communication, where they teach students about effective speaking, writing, and media literacy. They design curricula that help students develop strong communication skills essential for academic and professional success.

High School Theatre Teacher: As high school theatre teachers, graduates lead drama programs, directing school plays and musicals. They teach students about acting techniques, stage production, and dramatic literature, fostering creativity and performance skills.

Drama and Theatre Program Coordinator: In this role, graduates coordinate and manage drama programs within schools or community organizations. They organize events, manage budgets, and oversee the production of theatrical performances, ensuring the smooth execution of theatre arts initiatives.

Curriculum Developer for Communication and Theatre Arts: Curriculum developers create educational materials and programs specifically for communication and theatre arts. They work with schools or educational publishers to develop engaging and effective curricula that align with educational standards and best practices.

Educational Consultant: Educational consultants provide expert advice on improving communication and theatre arts education. They work with schools and educational organizations to enhance teaching methods, develop programs, and implement strategies that support effective learning in these disciplines.

Theatre Director or Producer: Graduates can pursue careers as theatre directors or producers in professional or community theatres. They are responsible for overseeing the artistic and logistical aspects of theatre productions, including directing actors, managing rehearsals, and coordinating stage operations.

Communication Skills Trainer: In this role, graduates work in various settings, including corporate environments, to train individuals in effective communication techniques. They develop and deliver training programs that help professionals enhance their public speaking, presentation, and interpersonal communication skills.

Arts Education Specialist: Arts education specialists focus on promoting and integrating the arts into educational programs. They work with schools, arts organizations, or community centers to develop and implement programs that enrich students' learning experiences through communication and theatre arts.

School Administrator: With additional qualifications or experience, graduates may advance to administrative roles such as school principals or assistant principals. They oversee school operations, support teachers, and implement educational policies and programs.

Educational Program Manager: Educational program managers oversee the development and implementation of educational programs related to communication and theatre arts. They work with schools or educational institutions to ensure the effective delivery of these programs and the achievement of educational goals.

Theatre Outreach Coordinator: Theatre outreach coordinators develop and manage programs that engage communities in theatre arts. They organize workshops, performances, and educational events that promote the arts and foster community involvement.

Arts and Communication Advocate: Graduates may work as advocates for the arts and communication fields, promoting the value of arts education and communication skills in public forums, educational policy discussions, and community events.