Academic credit may be offered for work in these areas. The University, designated by the State Board of Higher Education as a Center of Excellence in the Fine and Performing Arts, makes every effort to elevate the standards of achievement in acting, directing, and design to the level of professional theatre. This professional complex provides students with an opportunity to gain experience in the areas of lighting, sound, scenery, and costuming. The Tony Award winning Oregon Shakespeare Festival, one of the most successful regional theatres in the United States, is located in Ashland. A repertory of both classic and modern plays is offered during the festival's nine-month season.
Students have an opportunity to buy rush seats at reduced prices when tickets are available.
As part of the theatre arts program, outstanding students are able to work as interns at the festival, where some receive full-time employment upon graduation. This center works closely with students and the administration to develop programs and environmental policies that benefit and enhance the campus community. The ecology center provides access to internships and job openings in the environmental field, and it presents speakers and special events around environmental issues. The center houses educational resources such as journals, magazines, and videos. The Games Room is staffed entirely by students.