B.A. in Theatre

The B.A. in theatre degree at Otterbein is designed for students whose professional career goals require study in multiple disciplines of theatre (or in other academic pursuits). The successful BA candidate is an independent, motivated student with intention and focus. The BA curriculum offers a common core of theatre classes and is combined with choice classes from the design technology, dance and performance fields. These choices include, but are not limited to, Design classes, Technology classes, costumes, stage makeup, combat, choreography, dance, TV/Film, etc. Because BA majors work alongside students pursuing BFA degrees, they are exposed to the best professional practices and standards, while maintaining the flexibility to be successful in achieving their career goals.

While BA students are not required to do a senior internship, many do. Placement in an internship is contingent upon the changing availability of internships as determined by the American professional theatre, screen, and entertainment industries, the landscape of social change taking place in the theater community, as exemplified by A New Deal for Broadway, and the readiness of the student to be a full, productive, and beneficial member of their host organization’ mission. 

While we see inestimable value in internship experiences, we fully support the journey toward a more inclusive, diverse, and equitable American Theatre. 

BA Theatre majors learn by doing. BA Theatre majors are involved in mainstage productions within their first year.

From the onset, students work closely with faculty to chart their specific degree plan in alignment with their prospective career goals. The BA Theatre program is ideal for students whose interests lie in careers in directing, playwriting, and stage management or students who want to double-major/minor in other fields. Current students are pursuing dual degrees in education, music, creative writing, business, film studies, journalism/ media communication, women gender studies and combining their BA Theatre degree with minors such as dance, and communication.

Opportunities for BA students are limitless, whether it’s double-majoring, involvement with workshops, or creating a senior capstone experience indicative of their specific focus. While BA students are not required to do a senior internship, many do. Depending on the nature of their degree plan, students receiving the BA degree are prepared to enter the profession. They are also prepared to enter graduate theatre programs leading to MA, MFA or PhD degrees.