M.S. in Computer Science
The MSCS program at William Jessup University is structured to provide a comprehensive ...
B.A. in Theatre
Rocklin, California
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The B.A. in Theatre is a four-year, on-campus program that offers a comprehensive approach to theatrical production, from "concept to performance." Students gain a general overview of all aspects of theatre production while also having the opportunity to specialize in various areas. These specializations include Acting, Musical Theatre, Theatre Design and Technology, and Theatre Management. This flexibility allows students to tailor their studies to their specific artistic passions and career aspirations, whether on stage, backstage, or in administrative roles. The program values a hands-on, entrepreneurial approach to theatrical storytelling, encouraging students to make a unique contribution to the art form.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the B.A. in Theatre at Jessup University is designed to be competitive and comprehensive, blending theoretical knowledge with practical application. While specific courses vary by specialization, core elements typically include Theatre History (e.g., Theatre History I: Greeks to the Restoration, Theatre History II: The Restoration to the Contemporary), and foundational courses in acting (e.g., Acting II – Realism, Acting III – Shakespeare), movement, and voice. Students pursuing the Acting or Musical Theatre concentrations will engage in intensive performance training. Those in Theatre Design and Technology will study Lighting Design, Set Design, Costume Design, and Stage Management. The Theatre Management concentration includes courses like Personal Finance and focuses on the business aspects of theatre. The program aims to develop technical skill sets for theatrical performance, production, and management, alongside the ability to analyze theatrical texts from an informed artistic sensibility.
Research Focus: While emphasizing practical training and performance, the B.A. in Theatre at Jessup University also fosters a critical and analytical approach to the art form. Students are expected to gain "an increased knowledge of the history of theatre" and the ability to "effectively analyze the theatre text." This implicitly involves engaging with historical research, critical theory, and the contextual understanding of dramatic works. Faculty members, who are often professional directors, actors, choreographers, and designers, bring their scholarly and practical expertise into the classroom, guiding students in their artistic and intellectual exploration. Students also have opportunities to lead student-directed productions, which often involve significant research into scripts, historical periods, and theatrical styles.
Industry Engagement: William Jessup University places a strong emphasis on direct industry engagement and experiential learning for its Theatre students. The program provides "unique opportunities to perform mainstage theatre productions," and students are encouraged to "work and network with professional directors, actors, and choreographers." This hands-on experience extends to working on show production, including stage management. The program is designed to produce "highly employable theatre artists" by providing a "unique offering of experiential learning," which is considered a distinctive of Jessup Arts. This includes learning valuable skills in performance, live-sound production, and recording. The faculty's professional experience in the industry further enhances student learning and networking.
Global Perspective: The B.A. in Theatre program at William Jessup University implicitly incorporates a global perspective by engaging with diverse theatrical traditions and the universal themes of human experience. The curriculum's study of theatre history would naturally include forms and influences from various cultures. The university's overall mission to "transform culture" through the arts and its focus on "masterful storytelling" with a Christian perspective encourages students to create art that resonates across different cultural contexts. By emphasizing empathy and an informed sensitivity to the variety of human experience, the program prepares graduates to contribute to and engage with the global arts community, understanding the powerful role of theatre in reflecting and shaping diverse societies worldwide.
Location
Rocklin, California
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
USD 36000
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $150
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 60% or above in their previous academic qualifications.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 or 6.5 with a minimum of 5.5 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 70 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 100.
William Jessup University is making high-quality Christian education accessible to students from around the globe. As part of this mission, the university offers a variety of scholarships for international students to help reduce financial barriers and support academic success. These scholarships are based on merit, leadership, and sometimes financial need, making it easier for qualified international students to afford a U.S.-based degree.
Academic Merit Scholarships: International students with strong academic records are eligible for merit-based scholarships. These are automatically considered upon admission and awarded based on high school or prior college performance. Awards vary depending on GPA, test scores (if submitted), and other academic achievements.
Leadership Scholarships: Students who have demonstrated exceptional leadership skills in school, community, or church settings may qualify for Leadership Awards. These scholarships recognize students who align with William Jessup University's core values and mission.
Athletic Scholarships: International students who excel in sports may be considered for athletic scholarships through the university’s athletics department. Jessup competes in the NAIA and offers scholarships across several sports for both men and women.
Program-Specific Scholarships: Certain academic departments offer program-specific financial awards based on a student's choice of major, such as business, education, or ministry-related degrees.
Church Partnership Grant: Students affiliated with churches that partner with WJU may be eligible for additional financial support, including partial scholarships for those recommended by their church leadership.
A Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Theatre from William Jessup University offers graduates a dynamic and immersive education, preparing them not just for the stage but for a broad array of creative, technical, and managerial roles within the arts and beyond.
Actor/Performer: This is a direct career path for graduates, particularly those in the Acting or Musical Theatre concentrations. They can pursue roles in plays, musicals, film, television, commercials, voice-overs, or even theme park entertainment, leveraging their stage presence and performance skills.
Stage Manager: Theatre majors with strong organizational skills and attention to detail are well-suited for stage management. They oversee rehearsals, communicate with all departments, and ensure the smooth execution of live performances, working in theatre companies, touring productions, or event venues.
Technical Director/Designer (Lighting, Set, Costume, Sound): Graduates specializing in Theatre Design and Technology can work as lighting designers, set designers, costume designers, or sound designers. They are responsible for the technical and aesthetic elements of a production, bringing the director's vision to life for theatre, film, or events.
Theatre Director: With a comprehensive understanding of all aspects of theatre production, graduates can direct plays or musicals, guiding actors and designers to realize a cohesive artistic vision. This often begins with student-directed projects and progresses to professional opportunities.
Arts Administrator/Program Coordinator: The management and organizational skills developed in the Theatre Management concentration are highly transferable. Graduates can work in arts organizations, non-profits, or educational institutions, handling budgeting, marketing, fundraising, and program development for theatre companies, museums, or cultural centers.
Casting Director/Assistant: Theatre graduates' knowledge of performance and talent makes them ideal for casting roles. They research, audition, and select performers for theatre, film, television, or commercials, identifying individuals who best fit specific roles.
Playwright/Screenwriter: For those with a passion for storytelling and strong writing skills, a theatre degree provides the foundation to create original scripts for the stage, film, or television, developing compelling narratives and characters.
Drama Teacher/Theatre Educator: Graduates can pursue teaching roles in K-12 schools, community theatre programs, or private studios, instructing students in acting, theatre history, production, and dramatic arts. Additional teaching certification may be required for public school positions.
Event Manager/Coordinator: The practical experience in managing complex productions and working with various teams translates well into event management. Graduates can plan and execute corporate events, conferences, concerts, or festivals, handling logistics, vendors, and scheduling.
Marketing/Public Relations Specialist (Arts Focus): Theatre majors possess strong communication and creative thinking skills. They can apply these to marketing and PR roles specifically within the arts and entertainment industry, promoting shows, artists, and venues to audiences.
