Georgia Southern University

What you'll study

The programme combines practical training, production experience and academic study to give a broad foundation in theatre arts. Core areas include acting technique, voice and movement, improvisation, script analysis and theatre history, alongside courses in directing, playwriting and dramatic literature.

Students also study technical and design disciplines such as scenic design, lighting, sound, costume and stagecraft, and take classes in stage management and production practicum to develop backstage and managerial skills. Coursework is typically complemented by participation in departmental productions, scene study labs and collaborative projects that reflect both classical and contemporary practice.

• Acting: scene study, character work, audition technique
• Performance Practice: voice and speech, movement, stage combat
• Design & Technology: set, lighting, sound, costume, drafting and CAD fundamentals
• Production & Management: stage management, technical direction, production roles and processes
• Theory & History: dramatic literature, theatre history, criticism and dramaturgy
• Creative Development: playwriting, directing workshops, new work development

Most students complete a capstone or portfolio requirement in their final year and build experience through regular participation in mainstage and studio productions. Opportunities for internships, community-engaged projects and cross-disciplinary collaboration are commonly available.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally required to hold a secondary school completion credential or equivalent. Typical admissions expectations include a demonstrated record of academic preparation and an interest in theatre practice.

Practical assessment: Many applicants will be asked to audition or submit a performance portfolio as part of the selection process; this can include filmed scenes, monologues, design portfolios or other relevant creative work. Departments often use auditions to assess potential in acting, movement and vocal work, while design applicants may be evaluated on samples of technical and visual work.

Academic profile: Admissions consider overall high school performance; specific course prerequisites may include English and arts subjects. Transfer applicants are assessed on college transcripts and prior coursework in theatre or related fields.

Additional considerations: Letters of recommendation, a personal statement outlining theatrical interests and professional goals, and evidence of extracurricular involvement in performance or production can strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates from a Bachelor in Drama pursue a wide range of careers in the performing arts and related sectors. Typical career paths include:

• Actor or performer in theatre, film, television and new media
• Director, assistant director and dramaturg
• Stage manager and production manager for live performance
• Set, lighting, sound and costume designer or technician
• Arts administrator, producing and company management roles
• Theatre education in schools, community arts organisations and youth programmes
• Creative roles in related industries such as event production, media, and communications

Many graduates also continue to postgraduate study (for example in MFA programmes, theatre education, or related arts management degrees) or build careers through freelancing, regional theatre companies and cultural organisations. Practical experience gained through productions and internships is often a key route into employment.

Why study at Georgia Southern University

Georgia Southern offers a theatre education that emphasises hands-on experience within a supportive academic community. The programme integrates classroom learning with regular production opportunities, allowing students to apply skills in acting, design and technical work onstage and behind the scenes.

Students benefit from small-class instruction, faculty mentorship and collaboration across disciplines. The department maintains links with local and regional arts organisations, providing routes to internships, community projects and networking with practitioners. Graduates leave prepared for a variety of professional roles or further study, with practical portfolios and production experience developed during their degree.