Central Washington University

What you'll study

The programme combines practical studio work with theoretical study to give a broad foundation in theatrical practice. Core areas include acting technique, voice and movement, script analysis, directing, theatre history and dramatic literature, and theatre production. Technical and design pathways cover stagecraft, scenic design, lighting, sound, costume construction and stage management, alongside courses in theatre technology and applied design.

Course structure typically mixes lower‑division foundational courses and upper‑division specialised seminars. Students take acting and performance labs, design and technology workshops, and production practicum credits where they contribute to department mainstage and student productions. Instruction emphasises collaborative-making, rehearsal process, audition preparation, and professional practices such as budgeting, publicity and production schedules. Many students complete a senior capstone or practicum project that demonstrates their cumulative skills.

• Acting technique, scene study and audition technique
• Voice, movement and physical theatre
• Directing and dramaturgy
• Scenic, lighting, sound and costume design
• Theatre history, dramatic literature and criticism
• Stagecraft, technical production and stage management
• Professional practicum through departmental productions and internships

Entry requirements

Applicants must meet Central Washington University’s undergraduate admissions criteria, including a high school diploma or equivalent and submission of official transcripts. Because this is a practice‑based programme, some tracks require an audition or a portfolio: acting specialisms usually ask for a prepared monologue and cold reading, while design/technology applicants may be asked to submit design samples, drawings or photographs of prior work.

Other typical application materials include a personal statement describing theatrical experience and goals, and recommendation letters where applicable. Transfer students should provide college transcripts and a record of related coursework or production experience. Specific audition or portfolio instructions are provided by the department; prospective students should consult the Department of Theatre for details on preparation and scheduling.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of careers within the performing arts and related fields. Common pathways include work as actors, directors, stage managers, lighting/sound designers, set and costume designers, and production technicians. Other options include dramaturgy, theatre education, arts administration, casting, technical direction, and freelance production work.

The practical training, production credits and portfolio materials developed during the degree also prepare students for graduate study in theatre, performance, design or related disciplines, and for roles in film, television, event production and community arts organisations. Many students gain additional employment through internships, regional theatre companies and freelance networks developed while studying.

Why study at Central Washington University

Central Washington University’s theatre programme emphasises experiential learning with a robust production schedule that gives students regular opportunities to work on fully staged shows in multiple production roles. Classes are delivered by faculty who combine academic expertise with professional theatre experience, and the department fosters close mentorship through small class sizes.

The programme’s practical facilities and workshops support hands‑on learning in design and technical theatre, while community partnerships and internship links help students gain real‑world experience. The curriculum balances artistic development with professional preparation so graduates leave with both creative skills and the practical know‑how to pursue a career in the performing arts.