The Department of Theatre and Dance offers B.A. and B.F.A. degree programs in which students may study a broad range of production, performance, historical, and literary aspects of theatre, dance, and music theatre. A central curriculum of courses is shared by all theatre, dance, and music theatre majors from which students pursue separate majors in theatre, dance, or theatre and dance areas. Auditions are not required for entrance into the department but are required for dance and music theatre classes. B.F.A. programs require an audition or portfolio review after completion of the first year of study.
Department classes balance scholarship and practical training.
In theatre, there is a full sequence of courses in theatre technology and design, acting, playwriting, and history and literature. In dance, there is a full sequence of courses in jazz, ballet, contemporary dance, tap, choreography, teaching methods, and history and research. Most classes are small or limited in enrollment to provide a cohesive and supportive studio environment, with an emphasis on individual attention. Performance and production are essential parts of the curriculum. Theatre, dance, and music theatre performances produced by the department provide hands-on learning experiences.