Theatre Arts

Bachelor of Arts

We are storytellers by nature, and theatre has existed in one form or another since before recorded history began.

A degree in theatre arts will prepare you for performances and technical productions in live theatre, film, television, and multimedia.

The Curriculum
Know your theory—and practice it

The program is designed to engage you with the art and craft of theatre by providing ample and varied opportunities for the study of theatre literature, history, and dramatic theory—all while emphasizing a practical application of theatre knowledge through production.

Discover theatre as an art form

Gain an understanding of the origins of the theatrical arts, theatre’s subsequent history of performance, the dramatic literature and dramatic theory upon which theatre is based, and the influence of theatre upon societies throughout the world.

Hone your creative process

Crucial to your success is understanding the nature of aesthetic perception—the ability to communicate aesthetics through artistic expression. This will be honed through your extensive experience of bringing productions to life.

Award-winning players and productions

Our students have brought home top regional awards from the Kennedy Center / American College Theatre Festival. Not only do Cal Lutheran students shine onstage, they’re also busy behind the scenes, taking positions of responsibility with publicity and sound, light, makeup, scene, and costume design.

Close to industry opportunities

The campus’ close proximity to Los Angeles provides an arena for you to explore a variety of screen, stage, television, and musical presentations and connections with industry professionals. During the summer, take advantage of student internship opportunities in Camp Shakespeare and the Kingsmen Shakespeare Festival, a professional theatre company that performs on campus.

Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA) Scholarship

Incoming freshman and transfer applicants with superior talent in the areas of music, theatre arts, or visual art can apply and audition for a VAPA Scholarship prior to enrolling at Cal Lutheran. Learn more »


Emphasis Areas

Programs

Offered as a major (BA) and a minor.


Recommended Minors

Want to add even more value to your degree? Consider one of these minors to gain a unique combination of skills and perspectives.


The Experience

Part of my goal as a professor and mentor, in helping students discover their purpose, is to nurture their interests. Because theatre is comprised of so many different areas, sub-disciplines and specializations, it's important to help the students discover their passion and desire within the industry. That may mean encouraging them to investigate a class they  may not have chosen to take on their own or exposing them to another area within theatre where you can see an interest in.

Erik Diaz
Assistant Professor

My scholarship and creative work as a director and playwright helps to bring my students into close contact with the world of professional theatre. They can then make informed choices about whether they wish to pursue their own theatrical ambitions.

Michael Arndt
Professor
Your Future

Many graduates have achieved careers in the competitive world of professional theatre, film, and television. Graduates have also been accepted into graduate theatre programs at universities throughout the United States.

The theatre arts curriculum also provides practical performance, management, communication, and work skills that relate to many other career fields—making for a versatile degree.


Our alumni study at:
  • Bard College
  • California Institute of the Arts
  • Neighborhood Playhouse NYC
  • New York University
  • San Diego State University
  • UC, San Diego
  • Yale
Our alumni work for:
  • Arizona Broadway Theatre
  • Cabrillo Music Theater
  • Disney Studios
  • Kingsmen Shakespeare Company
  • NBCUniversal
  • Oracle Films
  • UCLA
  • Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum
Career paths:
  • Producer
  • Writer
  • Carpenter
  • Lighting & Sound Technician
  • Actor
  • Welder
  • Electrician

of Cal Lutheran graduates find a job or enroll in graduate school within nine months

More Career Outcomes



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