2024-2025

Theatre, Bachelor of Arts

Department of Theatre

College of Arts and Letters

This multifaceted undergraduate program imparts a broad grounding in stagecraft, behind and in front of the curtain. The program includes theatrical history, theory, critique, technology, design, and hands-on production experiences. The language requirement adds a cultural and diverse element to the plan.

NAU is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Theatre (NAST)

  • Available Emphasis Areas:
  • Design and Technology - Emphasis
  • Performance - Emphasis
  • Theatre Studies - Emphasis

  • To receive a bachelor's degree at Northern Arizona University, you must complete at least 120 units of credit that minimally includes a major, the liberal studies requirements, and university requirements as listed below.

    • All of Northern Arizona University's diversity, liberal studies, junior-level writing, and capstone requirements.
    • All requirements for your specific academic plan(s).
    • At least 30 units of upper-division courses, which may include transfer work.
    • At least 30 units of coursework taken through Northern Arizona University, of which at least 18 must be upper-division courses (300-level or above). This requirement is not met by credit-by-exam, retro-credits, transfer coursework, etc.
    • A cumulative grade point average of at least 2.0 on all work attempted at Northern Arizona University.

    The full policy can be viewed here.

In addition to University Requirements:

  • 51-52 units of major requirements including a 22 - 23 unit emphasis.
  • 16 units of language requirements.
  • 18 - 24 units of minor requirements.

  • Up to 9 units of major prefix courses may be used to satisfy Liberal Studies requirements; these same courses may also be used to satisfy major requirements.

  • Elective courses, if needed, to reach an overall total of at least 120 units.

Students may be able to use some courses to meet more than one requirement. Contact your advisor for details.

Minimum Units for Completion 120
Major GPA 2.5
Highest Mathematics Required MAT 114
Foreign Language Required
University Honors Program Optional
AZ Transfer Students complete AGEC-A Recommended
Progression Plan Link View Progression Plan
Emphasis or Minor Required

An emphasis or minor is required for this major.

Purpose Statement

The study of Theatre is an integral part of a general education. The Northern Arizona University Department of Theatre gives undergraduate students an in-depth and expansive understanding of the art and craft of theatre through the creative, critical, and applied practice of theatre. The BA offers the opportunity to learn by doing in a student-centered environment through collaborative performance and production. Students become well-rounded theatre practitioners by engaging in all areas of theatre-making while cultivating artistic integrity and work ethic. The program prepares students for a global society by advancing awareness of the diversity of lived experience, practicing empathic communication and creative problem solving, and engaging in sustainability with a global perspective.

The core requirement for all majors consists of 32 units with courses such as Production Workshop, Script Analysis, Fundamentals of Acting, Directing, and Theatre History as well as three out of the following eight courses: Lighting and Sound Technology, Stagecraft, Costume Construction, Introduction to Theatrical Design, Costume Design, Scenic Design, and Lighting Design. Theatre Majors conclude their work with the Capstone class and project.

Beyond the core requirements Theatre majors are asked to choose one of three tracks:
Theatre Studies Emphasis, Design & Technology Emphasis, or Performance Emphasis. These tracks are detailed below. In all three tracks students participate in the making of theatre, whether it be in costuming, sound & light, scenic construction, stage management, crew, or cast. This hands-on work allows students to participate in the collaborative nature of Theatre and experience the importance of effective, multimodal communication. All majors and minors learn to evaluate, analyze, and engage with a depth and breadth of material on the global impact and sustainability of Theatre. Students apply this knowledge and critical thinking to their scholarship and artistic practices while practicing effective systems of preparation and work habits.

Theatre Studies Emphasis
Students who choose the Theatre Studies Emphasis concentrate their studies through reading, discussing, and practicing effective writing techniques such as outlining, making revisions, and giving/receiving peer feedback. The required courses with this emphasis, such as Modern and Contemporary Drama, challenge students to synthesize their study of history, theory, and criticism to better articulate their stances on the future of global theatre.

Design & Technology Emphasis
The Design & Technology Emphasis allows students to focus their curriculum on design and technology courses. Students who choose the Design & Technology Emphasis take 19 units in foundational courses such as Introduction to Theatrical Design, Drawing & Rendering for the Theatre, as well as more in-depth courses such as Costume Design, Scenic Design, Lighting Design, and Special Topics courses.

Performance Emphasis
In the Performance Emphasis students focus their curriculum on performance courses. In-depth courses open to the Performance Emphasis student include Directing II, Contemporary Acting Techniques, Advanced Contemporary Acting Techniques, Acting Styles, Advanced Movement for Actors, and Special Topics courses.

Student Learning Outcomes

Core Theatre Outcomes

  • Evaluate, analyze, and apply a depth and breadth of knowledge about the global impact of Theatre history, literature, and practices to the scholarship and practice of Theatre.
  • Value and apply an understanding of and experience with Theatre as a collaborative art to the scholarship and practice of Theatre.
  • Apply knowledge of theory to practical work in Theatre.
  • Articulate an understanding of sustainability in Theatre, in all its manifestations.
  • Effectively communicate the theory and practice of Theatre in the following modes: digital, literary, verbal, and non-verbal.
  • Apply effective problem-solving through creative and critical thinking.
  • Demonstrate the facility to synthesize and apply their liberal studies to the practice of Theatre.
  • Practice an effective system of preparation and working habits.
Emphasis in Design/Technology
  • Evaluate, analyze, and apply a depth and breadth of knowledge about the global impact of Theatre history, literature, and practices to the scholarship and practice of the art and craft of Theatre.
    • Synthesize knowledge acquired through the study of Theatre history, theory, and criticism, and articulate their stances on the global stage of Theatre.
    • Analyze knowledge of the history and development of modern design techniques and apply them to their Theatre design.
    • Articulate the cultural relationships and diversity of all aspects of Theatre.
  • Value and apply understanding of and experience with Theatre as a collaborative art to the scholarship and practice of Theatre.
    • Practice effective communication within a collaborative environment.
    • Effectively engage in the design and build process with other Theatre practitioners.
    • Value and understand professional and ethical boundaries within the collaborative Theatrical process.
    • Apply active listening skills.
    • Evaluate and apply an appreciation of the different areas of technical Theatre to effectively work in their chosen areas.
    • Practice non-verbal skills to effectively communicate their intentions.
  • Apply knowledge of theory to practical work in Theatre.
    • Apply modern design tools and skill sets to various positions in Theatre through the actual practice of Theatre.
    • Demonstrate knowledge and correct application of discipline-based language, terminology, and vernacular.
    • Effectively communicate with Theatre professionals.
    • Practice effective drafting, drawing, model building, and other practical methods of non-verbal technical communication.
    • Practice effective research and documentation of research in the design process.
  • Articulate an understanding of sustainability in Theatre, in all its manifestations.
    • Identify and discuss current professional Theatrical practices aimed at increasing sustainability.
    • Recognize, discuss, and analyze the sustainability of storytelling as an art form that is socially, culturally, and historically contextualized.
  • Effectively communicate the theory and practice of Theatre in the following modes: digital, literary, verbal, and non-verbal.
    • Articulate knowledge of the fundamentals of multiple areas of Technical Theatre in various modes of discipline-based communication—digital, verbal, and written forms.
    • Demonstrate comprehension, evaluation, and analysis of modern design tools for various positions in Theatre.
    • Analyze and evaluate their places in their chosen Design/Technical field.
  • Apply effective problem-solving through creative and critical thinking.
    • Articulate the creative process through the successful completion of a Capstone defense.
    • Critically analyze their processes.
    • Integrate design challenges into a process to find creative solutions.
    • Articulate their processes about production challenges.
  • Demonstrate the facility to synthesize and apply their liberal studies to the practice of Theatre.
    • Apply awareness and comprehension of the scope of university coursework taken to critically analyze their processes as Theatre artists.
    • Integrate university coursework to meet design difficulties and apply this knowledge in creative ways.
    • Articulate process about production challenges by comprehending, analyzing, and synthesizing a diversity of stories, which are the basis of the art of Theatre.
    • Synthesize and apply their knowledge of all areas of Theatre and the liberal arts to effectively complete a capstone project.
  • Practice an effective system of preparation and working habits.
    • Implement the Theatrical practice of always being on time, prepared, and ready to work, through the successful completion of coursework and practical application in the shops and backstage.
    • Recognize, describe, and implement effective preparation practices for a designer or technician.
    • Apply and recognize the importance of continual preparation, research, and practice in design and technology.
    • Implement effective classroom strategies such as active discussion participation, engagement with course materials, and asking relevant questions.
    • Practice effective and efficient writing techniques, including outlining, peer reviewing, and revision.
    • Collaborate within groups to prepare and present course material.
Emphasis in Performance
  • Evaluate, analyze, and apply a depth and breadth of knowledge about the global impact of Theatre history, literature, and practices to the scholarship and practice of Theatre. Recognize the literary, theoretical, and historical practices of performance in the global Theatre by taking courses in Script Analysis, Modern Drama, and Theatre History.
    • Synthesize knowledge acquired through the study of Theatrical history, theory, and criticism, and be able to articulate their stances on the global stage of Theatre.
    • Identify a variety of disciplines within the art of Theatre and the impacts they have on performance by successfully completing coursework from a wide variety of Theatrical sub-fields.
    • Demonstrate a depth and breadth of knowledge about the numerous facets of Theatre by successfully participating in various areas (or Theatrical positions) in the process of making Theatre and applying this experience to performance.
    • Critique, perform, and synthesize their understandings of texts from the global stage through in-class assignments and mainstage or second-stage projects, thereby expanding their awareness of the larger impact of Theatre.
  • Value and apply an understanding of and experience with Theatre as a collaborative art to the scholarship and practice of Theatre.
    • Implement an understanding of the collaborative processes of Theatre through the successful completion of courses in directing, and the practical applications of rehearsal and performance.
    • Practice effective communication within a collaborative environment through the practical applications of rehearsal and performance.
    • Value and understand professional and ethical boundaries within the collaborative Theatrical process through coursework and the practical application of rehearsal and performance.
    • Application of active listening skills in class, in the rehearsal hall, and in performance.
    • Apply appreciation of the different areas of Theatre to effectively perform a role or direct a text.
    • Recognize and implement successful practices of ensemble development in the creation of Theatre through the successful completion of coursework and practical application in the rehearsal hall and on stage.
  • Apply knowledge of theory to practical work in Theatre.
    • Identify and engage in professional practices of performance through the successful completion of courses in performance, and practical application on stage.
    • Recognize, characterize, and implement an understanding of the human body and voice and its relationship to narrative and expression through the successful completion of performance courses and application on stage.
    • Identify, implement, and evaluate knowledge and correct application of discipline-based language, terminology, and vernacular.
    • Identify and engage in professional practices of the Theatre through the successful completion of courses in either Stage Management or Theatre Management.
    • Identify, implement, and critique the technologies and processes used in professional Theatre, both historically and contemporarily, through the successful completion of courses in Technical Theatre and Design.
    • Implement effective storytelling practices.
    • Identify and utilize the interaction of Theatrical elements and employ this knowledge in the analysis and implementation of Theatrical choices.
    • Recognize and implement an understanding of dramatic structure in playmaking and playwriting to tell a story or create a role.
    • Practice effective research and documentation of research in a performance process.
    • Demonstrate growth through audition and successful completion of departmental performance opportunities.
  • Articulate an understanding of sustainability in Theatre, in all its manifestations.
    • Identify and discuss current professional Theatrical practices aimed at increasing sustainability.
    • Recognize, discuss, and analyze the sustainability of storytelling as an art form that is socially, culturally, and historically contextualized.
  • Effectively communicate the theory and practice of Theatre in the following modes: digital, literary, verbal, and non-verbal.
    • Articulate the creative process using digital, oral, and written communication skills through the successful completion of a Capstone defense.
    • Practice effective verbal and non-verbal communication skills through the successful completion of performance courses, and practical application on stage.
    • Articulate dramatic structure in the rehearsal and performance processes.
    • Recognize and implement effective written communication of dramatic structure, research, and analysis through the successful completion of coursework in Modern and Contemporary Drama and Script Analysis.
    • Communicate and implement an understanding of dramatic structure, research, and analysis through the medium of live Theatre.
    • Implement effective verbal communication skills through the correct usage of Theatrical terminology.
    • Articulate and implement effective verbal communication skills through exploration and discovery in the rehearsal hall and coursework.
  • Apply effective problem-solving through creative and critical thinking.
    • Demonstrate effective and creative problem-solving by synthesizing research and coursework and applying this knowledge to the rehearsal hall and performance.
    • Demonstrate creative problem solving by effective and diverse application of the tools of Theatre to meet the challenges of a role, a play, or a scene.
    • Implement active and critical thinking by proactively approaching a role or a project.
    • Demonstrate autonomy in the successful completion of a Senior Capstone project.
  • Demonstrate the facility to synthesize and apply their liberal studies to the practice of Theatre.
    • Apply awareness and comprehension of the scope of university coursework taken to a critical analysis of their processes as performers.
    • Integrate university coursework to create roles or tell stories.
    • Apply knowledge from Liberal Studies coursework in creative ways.
    • Comprehend, analyze, and apply the diversity of stories found in the Liberal Studies curriculum regarding performance challenges.
    • Synthesize and apply their knowledge of all areas of Theatre and the liberal arts to effectively complete a capstone project.
  • Practice an effective system of preparation and working habits.
    • Implement the Theatrical practices of always being on time, prepared, and ready to work, through the successful completion of their coursework as well as in the rehearsal hall and on stage.
    • Recognize, describe, and implement effective warm-up and preparation exercises.
    • Apply continual preparation tactics, research, and practical habits in performance.
    • Implement effective classroom strategies such as active discussion participation, engagement with course materials, and asking relevant questions.
    • Practice effective and efficient writing techniques, including outlining, peer reviewing, and revision.
    • Collaborate within groups to prepare and present course material.
Emphasis in Theatre Studies
Evaluate, analyze, and apply a depth and breadth of knowledge about the global impact of Theatre history, literature, and practices to the scholarship and practice of Theatre.
  • Demonstrate a depth and breadth of knowledge about the numerous facets of Theatre by successfully participating in various positions in the process of making Theatre.
    • Successfully complete coursework from a wide variety of Theatrical sub-fields
    • Apply knowledge of select Theatrical positions in theory and practice.
    • Recognize the literary, theoretical, and historical practices of global Theatre by taking courses in Script Analysis, Modern Drama, and Theatre History.
    • Synthesize knowledge acquired through the study of Theatrical history, theory, and criticism to articulate their stances on the global stage of Theatre.
  • Value and apply an understanding of and experience with Theatre as a collaborative art to the scholarship and practice of Theatre.
    • Practice effective communication within a collaborative environment through the hands-on process of Theatre-making.
    • Value and understand professional and ethical boundaries within the collaborative Theatrical process.
    • Apply active listening skills.
    • Evaluate and apply an appreciation of various areas of Theatre to effectively work in a specific area.
  • Apply knowledge of theory to practical work in Theatre.
    • Identify and engage in the professional practices of the Theatre through the successful completion of courses in either Stage Management or Theatre Management.
    • Recognize, characterize, and implement an understanding of the human body and its relationship to narrative and expression through the successful completion of performance courses.
    • Identify, implement, and critique the technology and processes used in professional Theatre, both historically and contemporarily, through the successful completion of courses in Technical Theatre and Design.
  • Articulate an understanding of sustainability in Theatre, in all its manifestations.
    • Identify and discuss current professional Theatrical practices aimed at increasing sustainability.
    • Recognize, discuss, and analyze the sustainability of storytelling as an art form that is socially, culturally, and historically contextualized.
  • Effectively communicate the theory and practice of Theatre in the following modes: digital, literary, verbal, and non-verbal.
    • Engage in effective digital communication practices through the successful completion of coursework and practical work in the making of Theatre.
    • Demonstrate understanding and practice of effective written communication and research skills in the literary, theoretical, and historical practices of global Theatre by successfully completing courses in Script Analysis, Modern Drama, and Theatre History.
    • Practice effective verbal and non-verbal communication skills through the successful completion of performance courses as well as practical application on stage.
    • Implement effective visual communication skills through the successful completion of courses in Technical Theatre and Design.
  • Apply effective problem-solving through creative and critical thinking.
    • Articulate the creative process through the successful completion of a Capstone defense.
    • Demonstrate the facility to synthesize and apply their liberal studies to the practice of Theatre.
    • Recognize and analyze Western and non-Western Theatrical practices through coursework and practical application.
    • Apply culturally aware comparative critical analysis of diverse practices and theories.
    • Synthesize knowledge acquired throughout their academic experiences on and off the stage.
    • Articulate personal positions on the global state of Theatre.
  • Demonstrate the facility to synthesize and apply their liberal studies to the practice of Theatre.
    • Apply awareness and comprehension of the scope of university coursework taken to critically analyze historical and contemporary texts and practices.
    • Integrate university coursework into analysis and discussion of historical, social, aesthetic, and political contexts for Theatrical practices and texts.
    • Articulate arguments about and analysis of the diversity of stories found in the Liberal studies curriculum.
    • Synthesize and apply their knowledge of all areas of Theatre and the liberal arts to effectively complete a capstone project.
  • Practice an effective system of preparation and working habits.
    • Implement effective classroom strategies such as active discussion participation, engagement with course materials, and asking relevant questions.
    • Practice effective and efficient writing techniques, including outlining, peer reviewing, and revision.
    • Collaborate within groups to prepare and present course material.

Major Requirements

  • This major requires 85 - 92 units distributed as follows:

    • Core Requirements: 29 units
    • Emphasis Requirement - Select one: 22 - 23 units
      • Design and Technology Emphasis: 22 units
      • Performance Emphasis: 22 - 23 units
      • Theatre Studies Emphasis: 22 units
    • Minor Requirement: 18 - 24 units
    • Foreign Language: 16 units


    Take the following 85 - 92 units:

  • Core Requirements (29 units)
    Take the following 29 units with a Grade of "C" or better in each course. All courses must be completed with a minimum GPA of 2.5.

     

  • Emphasis Requirement - Select One (22 - 23 units)
    Students may only complete one emphasis. The Design and Technology and Performance Emphases are in-depth. The Theatre Studies Emphasis is a hybrid and students will study the breadth of theatre.

    Take the following 22 - 23 units with a Grade of "C" or better in each course. All courses must be completed with a minimum GPA of 2.5.

    • Design and Technology Emphasis (22 units)


      Students must interview for the Design and Technology Emphasis and have completed or be in process on Acting I, Script Analysis, two 100-level technical courses, and Introduction to Theatrical Design. Students who have changed their major or transferred to the University may request a waiver through the Theatre Department to one or more of these requirements.

      You may not use the same course to satisfy more than one degree requirement.

    • Performance Emphasis (22 - 23 units)


      Students must audition for the Performance Emphasis and have completed or be in process on Acting I, Script Analysis, and two 100-level technical classes. Students who have changed their major or transferred to the University may request a waiver through the Theatre Department to one or more of these requirements.

      You may not use the same course to satisfy more than one degree requirement.

       

Minor Requirements

  • You must complete a minor of at least 18 units from those described in this catalog. In consultation with your advisor, you should select a minor that is appropriate for your career aspirations and educational needs. Your minor advisor will advise you about this part of your academic plan.

Foreign Language Requirement

  • You must demonstrate proficiency in a language other than English that is equivalent to four terms of university coursework in the same language. You may satisfy this requirement by taking language courses or through credit by exam. (16 units)

General Electives

  • Additional coursework is required if, after you have met the previously described requirements, you have not yet completed a total of 120 units of credit.

    You may take these remaining courses from any of the academic areas, using these courses to pursue your specific interests and goals. You may also use prerequisites or transfer credits as electives if they weren't used to meet major, minor, or liberal studies requirements.

    We encourage you to consult with your advisor to select the courses that will be most advantageous to you.

Additional Information

  • You must have a grade of "C" or better in ENG 105.

    Be aware that we will only accept up to half (25 units) of the courses required for your major as transfer credit.

  • Be aware that some courses may have prerequisites that you must also successfully complete. For prerequisite information, click on the course or see your advisor.

  • Students enrolled in this plan may not enroll in or pursue the following due to the number of overlapping units: