The BFA program is designed to prepare knowledgeable, skilled graduates who will compete at all levels in an increasingly competitive field. Students will also learn to assess, explain, and interpret the many roles and responsibilities inherent in the world of the professional theatre artist. They will also understand how to use the skills they have developed in other career paths related to their degree.
The BFA Theatre program is innovative and interdisciplinary. Students complete a sequence of core foundation courses, gain admission into the program through audition/interview, and focus in a single emphasis—Performance, Design/Technology, or Musical Theatre.
Interdisciplinary course work is integral to the structure and success of the BFA Theatre program. All of the required and elective courses for the degree are part of other major programs and are regularly taught. Besides the Theatre Arts courses, 29 interdisciplinary courses are offered by two colleges from seven other CWU departments: Art, Communications, Dance, English, Physical Education, Family and Consumer Science, Industrial Engineering, and Music.
Theatre BFA students are required to complete the general eduation requirements established by the university.
Design/Technical Specialization
The Design/Technical Specialization builds specific skills in production from a strong foundation of general knowledge of technical theatre and the design aspects of theatre. Students choose from a range of courses, both introductory and advanced, from writing and drawing, construction, and sewing.
To help students prepare for future employment or graduate school, all students are strongly encouraged to pursue practical experience through TH 490: Cooperative Education (Internship) as well as the Production Application courses, designed to put theory into practice as part of Central Theatre Ensemble’s regular on-campus season.