B.A. in Theatre Studies

The Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Theatre Studies at the University of Connecticut (UConn) offers a comprehensive and flexible curriculum designed for students passionate about various aspects of theatre. This program allows students to tailor their education by pursuing a general course of study or focusing on specific concentrations such as Stage Management, Directing, Playwriting, Theatre Management, or Dramaturgy. Throughout their academic journey, students collaborate closely with advisors to curate a personalized educational experience, culminating in a senior-year capstone project that showcases their developed skills and artistic vision.

Curriculum: The Theatre Studies curriculum is structured to provide a solid foundation in both practical and theoretical aspects of theatre. Core courses include Theatre Production: Costume & Makeup, Theatre Production: Stage Craft, Introduction to Acting for Non-BFA Majors, Histories of Drama and Performance I & II, Script Analysis, and The Director in the Theatre. Students also select from specialized courses such as Women in Theatre, African-American Theatre, Latin Theatre, Trends in Contemporary Theatre, and Theatre and Human Rights. Beyond theatre-specific classes, students are encouraged to explore related disciplines like history, anthropology, political science, human rights, art, and philosophy, reinforcing the interdisciplinary nature of theatre within human culture.

Research Focus: While the B.A. in Theatre Studies at UConn is primarily centered on practical theatre applications, students have opportunities to engage in research, particularly in areas like dramaturgy, theatre history, and performance studies. Courses such as Theatre and Human Rights and Devising Theatre for Social Justice encourage students to explore the societal impacts of theatre and its role in advocating for human rights. Additionally, the program's emphasis on script analysis and dramaturgy fosters critical thinking and research skills essential for understanding and interpreting theatrical works.

Industry Engagement: UConn's Theatre Studies program emphasizes experiential learning, providing students with hands-on opportunities through the Connecticut Repertory Theatre (CRT), the department's production arm. Students gain practical experience in roles such as stage managers, assistant directors, dramaturgs, and theatre management staff. The program also facilitates internships with renowned organizations, including the Warner Theatre, Goodspeed Opera House, ESPN, Long Wharf Theatre, Hartford Stage, and the Metropolitan Opera. These experiences enable students to apply their classroom knowledge in professional settings, enhancing their readiness for careers in the theatre industry.

Global Perspective: The Theatre Studies program at UConn integrates a global perspective by offering courses that examine diverse theatrical traditions and their intersections with societal issues. For instance, courses like African-American Theatre, Latin Theatre, and Theatre and Human Rights explore the cultural and political dimensions of theatre worldwide. This global approach equips students with a broad understanding of theatre's role across different cultures and its potential as a medium for social change.

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% or above in their previous academic qualifications.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall band score of  6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 79 or higher.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 100.

The University of Connecticut (UConn) offers a range of merit-based scholarships to support international students in their academic journey. These scholarships are designed to recognize exceptional academic achievements and leadership qualities.

Global Excellence Award: This scholarship is awarded to international students who have demonstrated outstanding academic performance and leadership both in and outside the classroom.

Global Distinction Award: Similar to the Global Excellence Award, this scholarship recognizes international students with exceptional academic records and leadership abilities.

Global Leader Award: This award honors international students who have shown exceptional academic achievement and leadership qualities. 

The B.A. in Theatre Studies at the University of Connecticut (UConn) opens a variety of career paths in the performing arts and related industries. With its strong emphasis on both the theoretical and practical aspects of theatre, graduates are well-prepared to enter a wide range of professions. 

Actor/Performer: Many Theatre Studies graduates pursue careers as actors in professional theatre, film, television, or other media. UConn’s program provides ample performance experience through Connecticut Repertory Theatre (CRT), allowing students to build a professional portfolio before graduation.

Director/Assistant Director: Graduates often take on roles as directors or assistant directors in community, regional, or professional theatres. Their education in directing theory, combined with hands-on experience, positions them for leadership roles in production settings.

Playwright/Scriptwriter: The program’s focus on dramaturgy and script analysis prepares students to write original plays or screenplays. UConn encourages students to develop their own artistic voices and pursue careers in writing for theatre, film, or television.

Stage Manager: The B.A. program at UConn provides students with the skills necessary to work as stage managers in theatre productions. This critical role involves overseeing the technical aspects of a production, from rehearsals to the final performance.

Theatre Technician/Designer: Graduates can also pursue careers as set designers, lighting designers, costume designers, or sound designers. These roles are essential to the production of theatre and involve a deep understanding of the artistic and technical aspects of live performances.

Theatre Educator/Professor: Some graduates choose to teach theatre at the K-12 level, in community programs, or even at the university level. With further education, such as an M.A. or M.F.A., some may go on to pursue advanced teaching positions in higher education.

Arts Administrator: Many Theatre Studies graduates transition into careers in arts management, working as producers, development directors, or marketing managers for theatres, cultural institutions, or performance organizations.

Dramaturg: A dramaturg works as a literary and historical consultant for theatre productions, helping with script analysis, research, and the contextualization of a play. This role is ideal for those passionate about theatre history and literature.

Theatre Critic/Journalist: With a solid foundation in performance studies, some graduates pursue careers in theatre criticism, writing reviews for publications or online platforms, contributing to the ongoing discourse around theatrical productions.

Human Rights Advocate: Given the global and societal focus in UConn's Theatre Studies curriculum, students interested in activism may pursue roles in human rights organizations, using theatre as a tool for advocacy and social change.