Program Description
Students pursuing the Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Arts Degree Program complete a liberal arts program that devotes a portion of their theatre studies to an examination of the history of theatre, the role of theatre in society, and the relationship of theatre to other disciplines. Theatre Arts students are trained to demonstrate comprehension of theory and methodology by working on theatrical productions and participating in all levels of production (technical, administration, literary, and artistic); view local and national professional theatre productions to increase their understanding of theatre as a collaborative art form; develop working relationships with local and national theatre companies; and interview and discuss internship and career opportunities in performing arts with professionals.
Student Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the Theatre Arts Program will be able to:
- Discuss theatre arts in an historical context and the impact that theatre has on our daily lives including private and public sectors.
- Read plays and critique professional performances from diverse communities; use backstage theatre technology for lighting, sound, stage management, set design and departmental productions.
- Apply knowledge of the major authors, periods, movement theories, concepts, and practices in the theatre arts context to develop and implement an independent research project.
- Identify and analyze issues in the theatre arts context, and devise and implement a plan of action to address concerns.
- Work collaboratively on group projects as an effective team member to create original works.
Program Opportunities
The Department of Theatre and Communication Studies hosts several organizations for majors and non- majors. They include:
Alpha Psi Omega - a national drama honor society for students who have been involved actively in theatrical productions while maintaining scholastic integrity.
Clark Atlanta University Players (CAU Players) - composed of majors and non-majors with a strong desire to perform and produce challenging work. The mission of the CAU Players is to excite, educate, and entertain. The CAU Players present a variety of productions yearly.
The Forensics Society - composed of majors and non-majors interested in public speaking, oral interpretation, and debate. The society participates in competitions locally and nationally.
Lambda Pi Eta Honor Society, Theta Tau Chapter - goals are to recognize, foster, and reward outstanding scholastic achievement; stimulate interest in the field of communication; promote and encourage professional development among communication majors; provide an opportunity to discuss and exchange ideas about the field; establish and maintain close relationships and understanding between faculty and students; and explore options for further graduate studies. To become a member of Lambda Pi Eta, students must have completed at least 60 semester hours; have completed at least 12 semester hours of communication study and have a GPA of at least 3.25; have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0; and be in the upper 35% of their graduating class.
National Black Media Coalition (NBMC) - recognizes and assists all the many media industries involving people of color, both creatively and technologically, as well as ownership.
National Communication Association Student Club (NCASC) - an organization for division of communication arts majors interested in the field of communication. Students must have declared a major in communication to join the organization officially.
