Bachelors of Actuarial Science
The Actuarial Science program at Franklin College provides a comprehensive foundation i...
Bachelors of Theatre
Franklin, Indiana
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Arts in Theatre at Franklin College provides a broad and deep exploration of theatre as an art form and a reflection of the human experience. The program aims to develop students' appreciation of theatre by expanding their understanding of its historical and contemporary significance, while simultaneously allowing them to cultivate a wide range of practical theatrical skills and abilities. Students work collaboratively with faculty and professional guest artists, gaining a rich understanding of what it means to be human in the 21st century through the exploration of various characters and worlds. The program is grounded in the liberal arts, ensuring a well-rounded education that complements the intensive theatre training.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the BA in Theatre is designed to provide a balanced education encompassing both theoretical knowledge and practical application. Students engage in a variety of theatre courses, including those focused on acting, directing, design (lighting, scenery, costume), stage management, and dramatic literature. The program emphasizes hands-on work, allowing students not only to perform but also to gain practical experience in technical aspects of production. The smaller class sizes, typically between 5 and 15 students, foster close relationships between students and professors, both in the classroom and in the theatre. This individualized attention supports students in developing their best work and often culminates in "realized designs (lighting and scenery) from our mainstage productions" rather than just theoretical projects.
Research Focus: While the Bachelor of Theatre is primarily an applied and creative degree, Franklin College's program implicitly integrates a "research focus" through its emphasis on dramaturgy and the historical and contextual understanding of theatre. Students are trained to use "dramaturgical skills in theatrical research," which involves investigating the background, themes, and historical context of plays to inform performance and design choices. Music history courses provide contextual information about compositions, and preparing for roles or directing projects often necessitates in-depth research into character motivation, period styles, and playwrights' intentions. The college's commitment to a liberal arts education also ensures that students develop strong critical thinking and analytical skills, which are fundamental to any form of scholarly inquiry or artistic research.
Industry Engagement: Franklin College demonstrates a strong commitment to preparing its theatre graduates for professional careers through robust industry engagement. From their first day, students work with "professional guest artists," which includes interaction with artists representing playwriting, directing, acting, and design. The college facilitates "unique internship opportunities" that focus on preparing students for their chosen musical or theatrical field. Proximity to Indianapolis allows students to easily become involved in the regional arts scene, with past internships at renowned organizations like the Indianapolis Opera, Indiana Repertory Theatre, and Phoenix Theatre. The department also produces "four shows a year" (a mix of classical and contemporary performances), providing continuous practical, hands-on experience in all areas of theatre production.
Global Perspective: Theatre, as an ancient and evolving art form, inherently carries a global perspective, reflecting diverse cultures and historical contexts. Franklin College's liberal arts foundation supports students in gaining a broader global understanding. While the specific global components within the Theatre program are not extensively detailed, the curriculum's exploration of "theatre in historical and current society" likely includes diverse theatrical traditions from around the world. The college encourages "study away trips" and offers connections with "internship opportunities" in other parts of the world, such as the Disney College Program and the Stratford Festival (in Canada). These institutional initiatives allow theatre students to experience different cultural approaches to performance and gain exposure to international theatrical practices, broadening their artistic and cultural horizons.
Location
Franklin, Indiana
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 40010
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $40
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 6.0 or 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 79 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 53 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 105.
Franklin College offers a range of scholarship opportunities to support international students in pursuing their academic goals. These scholarships are designed to recognize outstanding academic achievement, leadership qualities, and extracurricular involvement, making higher education more accessible and affordable for students from around the world.
Merit-Based Scholarships: International students are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships upon admission. These awards are competitive and primarily based on academic performance, standardized test scores, and personal achievements. Scholarships can significantly reduce tuition costs and may be renewable each year based on satisfactory academic progress.
Specialized Scholarships: In addition to general merit awards, Franklin College provides targeted scholarships for students excelling in specific fields such as science, arts, athletics, or community service. Some scholarships also focus on promoting diversity and inclusion by supporting students from underrepresented regions or backgrounds.
Franklin College's Bachelor of Arts in Theatre offers a dynamic and immersive education, preparing graduates for a wide array of roles within the performing arts and beyond.
Actor/Performer: This is a direct aspiration for many theatre graduates. They pursue roles in film, television, commercials, regional theatre, national tours, or local productions. This path often involves extensive auditioning, continuous training, and strong networking.
Stage Manager: Essential to any production, stage managers oversee all technical aspects of a performance, from rehearsals to opening night and beyond. They are responsible for organizing cues, managing props, communicating with the cast and crew, and ensuring the smooth execution of the show.
Theatre Educator (K-12 or Community): Graduates can pursue careers teaching drama and theatre arts in schools (often requiring additional education certification), community centers, or youth theatre programs. They inspire young artists, direct school plays, and teach acting, technical theatre, and dramatic literature.
Technical Director/Lighting Designer/Costume Designer/Sound Designer: For those passionate about the behind-the-scenes magic, graduates can specialize in technical theatre. They are responsible for the execution of scenic, lighting, costume, or sound designs, managing budgets, crews, and safety protocols to bring a production to life.
Arts Administrator/Managing Director: Graduates with an understanding of theatre operations can work in administrative roles for theatre companies, performing arts centers, or arts organizations. Responsibilities might include marketing, fundraising, audience development, grant writing, or financial management.
Production Coordinator/Manager (Film/TV/Events): The organizational, problem-solving, and logistical skills honed in theatre production are highly transferable. Graduates can work in film, television, or live event production, coordinating schedules, resources, and personnel to ensure projects stay on track.
Dramaturg: A more academic role, dramaturgs conduct research on plays, playwrights, and historical contexts to provide critical analysis and insights for directors, actors, and designers. They might also assist with script development or adaptation.
Casting Director/Assistant: Leveraging their knowledge of performance and talent, graduates can work in casting offices for theatre, film, or television. They identify and audition actors, matching them with suitable roles based on the project's requirements.
Events Designer/Planner: The creativity, attention to detail, and project management skills from theatre are excellent for event planning. Graduates can design and coordinate various events, from corporate functions to weddings and festivals, focusing on creating immersive and memorable experiences.
Teaching Artist/Workshop Facilitator: Many theatre graduates combine performance with education by working as teaching artists. They lead workshops in schools, community centers, or specialized programs, using theatre techniques to teach various skills (e.g., communication, improvisation, storytelling) to diverse groups.
