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The undergraduate theater experience at Ohio University is a blend of core theater studies and practice, intensive training in a selected concentration, and liberal arts experiences, leading to either a professionally oriented Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A) or a broad-based Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree.

The theater is not an island unto itself; it exists as part of and because of a larger world. All theater students devote a portion of their studies to examination of the literature and history of the theater, the role of theater in society, and relationship to other art disciplines. To this end, faculty advisors in the School of Theater strive to guide theater students through programmatic and University General Education requirements in a manner that broadens and deepens their knowledge and contributes to a critical conversation in a world context.

Production activities are considered crucial to the total curriculum planning of a theater major. Students register each quarter for a credit-bearing practicum in production. In the first year, this involves participation in productions through technical and management assignments. Second, third and fourth year students have the opportunity to participate in production as a performer, technician, designer, dramaturg, or stage manager. Students are also eligible to audition for the Ohio University Players at the Monomoy Theater, our summer stock theater on Cape Cod. Theater students are encouraged to pursue internship and off campus opportunities, including study abroad programs in the School of Theater, College of Fine Arts, and OhioUniversity, and the Global Theater Institute New York, a Summer study/internship program in New York City.

Ongoing and individual advising is an extremely important aspect of the School of Theater. Each School of Theater student meets quarterly with an academic advisor (eventually one of the core faculty members in their area of study) for academic and programmatic guidance. To maintain the academic and artistic rigor of the programs, all theater students are required to attain a minimum grade of C in any theater course required for graduation. Unsatisfactory academic or programmatic progress may result in academic or program probation, removal from a sequence or degree within the School, or denial of further enrollment as a degree candidate in the School of Theater. Careful planning and intelligent course selection may allow pursuit of a minor or second major. In addition, high-achieving, highly motivated students can apply to the Theater Tutorial Program (see HonorsTutorialCollege for requirements and deadlines http://www.honors.ohio.edu/theater.htm).

Admission Requirements

Students admitted to OhioUniversity may enter the School of Theater in the general theater major. For talent scholarship consideration, auditions and interviews are conducted during the winter quarter of each year for high school or transfer students considering entrance the following fall. Students are assigned an entry academic advisor and are reassigned to a new advisor once upon acceptance into a degree concentration program.

Procedure for Admission B.F.A. Programs

At the end of the freshman year, you are expected to declare a degree program. Under normal circumstances, you must complete all the 100-level theater core requirements to be considered for entry into a degree program. All students must audition, interview, or present portfolios for entry into the B.F.A. programs (performance, stage management, playwriting, or production design and technology). You may also enroll in a course of study leading to the B.A. degree.
Theater Core Courses (Required of all BFA majors)

Theater Core Courses (Required of all BFA majors)
 

Minimum total practicum credits: 18

All majors are required to enroll for Lunchbag Theater Seminar (THAR 090) each quarter of residence.
Liberal Arts Requirements for Theater Majors

In addition to the Tier I, II, and III requirements, all majors in the School of Theater are required to take two English courses at the 200 level or above. Two Shakespeare courses are strongly advised and may be required in a specific program. (Tier I junior composition does not fulfill this requirement.)

Total: 78

Minimum Grade Requirement

All theater majors are required to attain a minimum grade of C in any theater course required for graduation.

Electives

Distribution of elective hours will vary depending upon degree requirements of a particular area. You are encouraged to use your elective choices in a manner that expands on the liberal arts experience, particularly with choices in the areas of literature, philosophy, history, and psychology. If you are in acting, you also are advised to strengthen your personal talents in the areas of music, dance, and art. 

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