Bachelor in Theatre Arts
Carroll University
Key Information
Campus location
Waukesha, USA
Languages
English
Study format
On-Campus
Duration
4 years
Pace
Full time
Tuition fees
USD 36,400 / per year **
Application deadline
Request info *
Earliest start date
Request info
* open enrollment
** additional fees may apply / on average our international scholarship covers 45-55% of the cost of attendance for fulltime international undergraduate students
Introduction
Live theatre is one of the most powerful forms of communication. It connects us to one another by reminding us of the shared human experience. Through artistic expression, it engages and invites conversation, celebrates our humanity, and explores questions—both timeless and timely—that touch our emotions and challenge our existing beliefs. Theatre has the ability to inspire, inform and transform. Whether your passion leads you to center stage or behind the scenes, you’ll find a welcoming community at Carroll.
Carroll University’s theatre arts major provides you with the knowledge needed to successfully operate an arts organization or venue while also acquiring skills to perform in productions. You’ll gain a well-rounded understanding of how a theatre production comes together from conception to curtain call as well as gain important skills in communication, collaboration, leadership, mentorship, project management, networking, persuasion, and negotiation. Students can also major in Musical Theatre. The goal of the new 48-credit BA major is to train Carroll students in the unique and demanding art of musical theatre, by creating successful ‘triple threats’ (those with exceptional abilities in the areas of acting, singing, and dance.)
Our program combines classroom study with opportunities to participate in fully-produced stage productions. Productions include a wide range of genres, from musicals and comedies to satire and tragedy. Our goal is to provide students with a wide variety of experiences, working on productions that range from historical to contemporary, Broadway to off-Broadway to original work. You’ll learn how to direct, build stage sets, design sound and lighting, and craft costumes. You’ll also have the chance to write, direct and perform your own work. Our students have the opportunity to work alongside professional, Equity actors at least once each semester.
Community partnerships with local arts organizations will introduce you to the real world of operating a venue—and what strategies are necessary to address challenges and successfully accomplish goals. You’ll come away with an understanding of how to manage and promote a business working in areas like finance, human resources, and marketing.
And when you’re not rehearsing at Carroll, you’ll enjoy the area’s vibrant art scene and a wide variety of performing arts organizations.
Work and Learn on Campus
We offer positions in all areas that support theatre and arts for students seeking campus employment during the school year, including:
- Costume shop
- Prop shop
- Scene shop
- Tech lab
- Theatre office/student public relations team
Summer Repertory Series
Earn course credit and gain real-world experience in a 6-8 week ‘summer stock’ setting for course credit while you develop the skills you’ll need to sustain a successful career in the theatre and arts management industries.
Theatre's Rich History in Wisconsin
Dedicated to new and innovative theater production, Wisconsin's first theatre organization was inaugurated in June 1896 with a production of Bulwer Lyton's "Richelieu," staged by May N. Rankin, the daughter of former Carroll President Walter Rankin. Miss Rankin developed the curricular program in 1901 and eventually produced graduates including Alfred Lunt, who, with wife Lynne Fontanne, has a Broadway theater named in his honor. A museum and theatre center has been established at their former estate, Ten Chimneys, in Genesee Depot, Wisconsin.
Minors
In addition to the major, Carroll offers minors in theatre that complement many areas of study:
- Arts Management Minor
- Film and Television Minor
- Theatre Arts Minor
Program Outcome
Upon successful completion of major requirements students will be able to demonstrate:
- An understanding of theatre history and literature in a global context.
- The skills necessary to take part in the collaborative theatre process.
- The tools to create and promote theatre as a vital art form serving a diverse community.
Gallery
Career Opportunities
Graduates of our program are working professionally in positions such as actor, improv performer, playwright, director, designer, stage manager, non-profit arts administrator, event planner and promoter, and teacher.
Our majors pursue careers in:
- Performance
- Directing
- Behind-the-scenes
- Writing
- Business
- Education
Types of employers for theatre arts graduates:
- Theatres and parks
- Media
- Film agencies
Example job titles of graduates with a bachelor’s degree in theatre arts:
- Event specialist
- Box office manager
- Guest services coordinator
- Theatre technician
- Communication and development coordinator
- Production assistant
Our graduates are employed at organizations such as:
- Idyllwild Arts Academy
- Purdue University
- Epic Arts Repertory Theatre
- Medco Health Solutions
- Cynthia Qualich LLC
- Fridley School District
- Sunset Playhouse
- Harmann Studios
- Hamilton High School
- University of Wisconsin-Madison
Curriculum
Core Courses
- THE 100 - Theatre Participation 1 Hour(s)
and/or - THE 300 - Theatre Practicum 1 Hour(s)
- THE 101 - Introduction to Theatre Arts 4 Hour(s)
- THE 102 - Introduction to Performance 4 Hour(s)
- THE 120 - Costume Construction & Makeup 2 Hour(s)
- THE 121 - Set Construction & Lighting 2 Hour(s)
- THE 215 - Theatre History and Literature I 4 Hour(s)
- THE 260 - Arts Management 4 Hour(s)
- THE 301 - Contemporary Acting Styles 4 Hour(s)
or - THE 302 - Period Acting Styles 4 Hour(s)
- THE 307 - Directing for the Stage 4 Hour(s)
- THE 308 - Writing for the Stage 4 Hour(s)
Note: To fulfill the major requirements, students must take a total of 4 credits in THE 100 and/or THE 300.
Experiential/Professional/Leadership Opportunities (4 credits)
Minimum of 4 credits chosen from:
- THE 296 - Special Studies/Research in Theatre 1 - 4 Hour(s)
- THE 291 - Special Studies/Topics in Theatre 1 - 4 Hour(s)
and/or - THE 391 - Special Studies/Topics in Theatre 1 - 4 Hour(s)
- THE 396 - Special Studies/Research in Theatre 1 - 4 Hour(s)
- THE 380 - Internship in Theatre Arts 1 - 4 Hour(s)
and/or - THE 480 - Internship in Theatre Arts 1 - 4 Hour(s)
- THE 390 - Theatre Projects 1 - 4 Hour(s)
and/or - THE 490 - Theatre Projects 2 Hour(s)
Bachelor of Arts Requirements
The requirements for a Bachelor of Arts are:
- Students must take 8 credits in the same modern language (MLL) other than English, this does not include American Sign Language. Carroll University will accept a total of 8 transferred credits from another college/university as long as all 8 credits are completed in the same language.
- **International students who have English as their second language should contact the Registrar concerning the Modern Language
- MAT 106 - Mathematics for the Liberal Arts 4 Hour(s) or higher
- ENG 170 - Writing Seminar 4 Hour(s)
- Degree requirements cannot be waived.
Note: Each major may have specific course sequencing requirements. For specific requirements, see “Required Support Courses” within each major.
Internships
We help you build real-world experience, explore careers, and network with professionals through internship opportunities. Recent placements include the following companies:
- Blue Lakes Fine Arts Camp
- First Stage
- Lake Country Playhouse
- Milwaukee Chamber Theatre
- Milwaukee Opera Theatre
- Milwaukee Repertory Theatre
- Skylight Music Theatre
- Sunset Playhouse
- Waukesha Civic Theatre
- Wisconsin Philharmonic
Admissions
Program Tuition Fee
Scholarships and Funding
The University participates in three types of financial aid programs for its International students: scholarships, grants, and employment.
Scholarships
Carroll University offers completive scholarships for international undergraduate students. 100 percent of Carroll University students receive scholarship assistance, which helps them find a balance between studies, work, and extra-curricular activities. Scholarships play a key role in maintaining Carroll's accessibility for all students. On average our international scholarship covers 45-55% of the cost of attendance for full-time undergraduate students.
Grants
Grants are awarded based upon a student’s demonstrated financial need in addition to the guaranteed International scholarship. Like scholarships, grants are considered gift aid that does not need to be repaid.
Student Employment
University employment opportunities allow students to work part-time on campus, earn an hourly wage and receive a monthly paycheck while attending Carroll. Students may work from approximately five to fourteen hours each week. The number of hours a student may work depends upon the student’s financial aid award. International students get awarded an average of $2,000-$2,500 in university employment grants every year.
Program Leaders
Student Testimonials
English Language Requirements
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