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

When students are able to assist me in the costume design process for television commercials or for the stage, it best prepares them for a career in the industry by giving them real world, relatable experiences. They are able to creatively problem solve and to quickly think on their feet. As their teacher, my goal in the classroom is to give students as many tools and opportunities as possible to equip them for situations whether creative or practical.

Noelle Raffy
Assistant Professor

Conversations with...

More than a dozen professional actors have come to Cal Lutheran's Preus-Brandt Forum for conversations with students in lively events moderated by instructor Markus Flanagan.

The advice and perspective I've gained from the events have been extremely helpful to my growth as a person and an actor.

Alison Waxman '15
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



Want to learn more?

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