Sep 05, 2026  
Ohio University 2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
Ohio University 2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog

Theater–Playwriting Major (B.F.A.)


Major code BF5171

Chaddock + Morrow College of Fine Arts  
School of Theater  
Kantner Hall 307B
Athens, OH 45701
Phone: 740.593.4818
theater@ohio.edu
www.ohio.edu/fine-arts/theater

Merri Biechler, contact person
biechler@ohio.edu

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theater (Theater B.F.A.) with a concentration in Playwriting is designed as an intensive introduction to the art of dramatic writing for the stage. Students study dramatic structure, and how the spoken word functions on the stage and in performance. Students accepted into the playwriting concentration will complete a range of courses in addition to the Theater B.F.A. Core and playwriting courses, which include acting, directing, film, screenwriting, and art history. 

During the first two years, students should complete much of the Theater B.F.A. Core and University General Education requirements. All theater majors are required to attain a minimum grade of “C” (2.0) in any theater course required for graduation. 

Admissions Information

Freshman/First-Year Admission

After University admission, admission to this concentration is based on an interview with Playwriting faculty and a playwriting manuscript submission. 

Change of Major, Minor, or Certificate Policy

Admission to this concentration is based on an interview with playwriting faculty and a playwriting manuscript submission. Interviews can be arranged throughout the school year.  

External Transfer Admission

After University admission, admission to this concentration is based on an interview with Playwriting faculty and a playwriting manuscript submission. Interviews can be arranged throughout the school year. 

Opportunities Upon Graduation

The Theater B.F.A. with a concentration in Playwriting prepares students for career paths in dramatic writing for live performances and provides a core development for dramatic writing across all media and genres. 

Requirements

University-wide Graduation Requirements


Ohio University requires the completion of a minimum of 120 semester hours for the conferral of a bachelor’s degree. This program can be completed within that 120-hour requirement. For more information on the minimum hours requirement and other university-wide requirements, please review the Graduation Requirements – University-wide  page.

Theater B.F.A. Core Requirements


Complete all core courses with a grade of C (2.0) or better.

4000-Level Theater Seminar


THAR 4710  and THAR 4720  are repeatable courses with changing topics. Students may complete one section of THAR 4710  and one section of THAR 4720  or they may complete two sections of either course for a total of six (6) credit hours. Both sections must be completed with a grade of ‘C’ or better:  

Choose two (2) Practicum courses for a total of four (4) credit hours:


Students must complete two registrations from the below list of options: 

Choose two (2) of the following courses for a total of six (6) hours:


Playwriting Concentration Requirements


Complete all THAR courses with a grade of C (2.0) or better.

Playwriting Courses


Complete the following courses:

Upper-level Theater Elective


Complete three (3) additional credit hours in Theater (THAR) at the 2000-level or above. 

Upper-level English Elective


In addition to the ENG 3000-level course taken as part of the Theater BFA Core, complete one (1) ENG course at the 2000-level or above. English composition courses cannot be used to fulfill this requirement.

Arts Electives


Complete six (6) additional credit hours in Art History (AH) and/or Film (FILM) at the 2000-level or above with Advisor’s approval.