Program of Study
Theatre at CSUSM is designed to provide a broad perspective on the literature, history, creative practices, and the professional field of the performing arts. Built upon the belief that intellectual rigor and creative practice nurture and inform each other, the Theatre program affords many opportunities for students to take leadership roles in the production of the performing arts on campus and in the community. Through courses and experiences across the creative spectrum of the theatre that focus on contemporary BIPOC theatre practice, this program offers a stimulating blend of cultural diversity, critical analysis, and hands-on experience, all while providing a supportive place to learn and grow.
Upon graduation, our students are knowledgeable in theatrical practice and theory and have worked side-by-side with local and national theatre makers. Our graduates are capable of analyzing performances with special attention to the skills involved in acting, directing, artistic critique and collaboration, designing, and devising theatrical works. They are independent, creative thinkers and practitioners who are able to work collaboratively on play productions, give meaningful feedback to colleagues, and do independent research. They are proficient in multiple disciplinary forms, and able to apply lessons learned across fields into the world of performance, and they are experienced in making connections with the campus and outside communities.
The program provides a well-rounded and active learning environment, including promoting original student research practices, involving students in innovative performance training, supporting students in creative leadership roles, and offering rigorous theory and dramatic literature courses. The theatre program adds significantly to the cultural life of the campus as we continue to produce plays that address campus and community needs, challenge social constructs, and cultivate creative excellence within our student body.
Program Student Learning Outcomes
Students who graduate with a B.A. in Theatre will be able to:
- Discuss, orally and in writing, major historical traditions within theatre and recognize historical developments of the art form.
- Analyze theatrical productions through the application of dramatic and performance theories.
- Collaborate with a team to develop artistic interpretations of specific works.
- Identify and demonstrate, through written or oral application, theatrical frameworks and methods.
- Create an original work, applying appropriate aesthetic and stylistic characteristics.
In addition, students will:
- Gain experience in performance, both behind and in front of the scenes.
- Provide community service through internships or performances in the community.
- Understand and demonstrate skills for a career in theatre or admission to graduate school.
Educational and Career Opportunities
The study of theatre provides knowledge and skills that apply to diverse fields, including education, higher education, civil service, nonprofit organizations, management, design, and research. A degree in Theatre is designed so that graduates will be adequately prepared to pursue careers in theatre or to enter graduate school. Students graduating with a B.A. in Theatre have numerous employment opportunities upon graduation.
Special Conditions for the Bachelor of Arts in Theatre
The Theatre major is designed to integrate well with the local community colleges’ curricula. Students entering the program at the junior level must have completed the lower-division core (at either CSUSM or a community college) before upper-division coursework.
Each course counted toward the major, including preparation for the major courses, must be completed with a grade of C (2.0) or better.
Breadth Requirement (3 Units)
Additional course in Upper Division Arts and Humanities (CC designated) outside the major. This requirement can also count as the CC requirement in Upper Division General Education, but it must be taken in an Arts and Humanities or Interdisciplinary program other than Theatre. Any course carrying the CC designation outside of Theatre can be used to fulfill this requirement. If a student chooses to satisfy their UDGE CC outside the major, the breadth requirement will become 3 free elective units.
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