This Bachelor's in Drama (Theatre) at Middle Tennessee State University provides practical, performance- and production-focused training for students pursuing careers in acting, design, technical theatre, directing or theatre education. It suits students who want a balance of conservatory-style studio work and a broader liberal-arts education, with many opportunities to work on departmental productions and to gain industry connections in the Nashville region.
The programme combines core theatre studies with hands-on studio training and general-education coursework. You will study acting technique, voice and movement, scene study, script analysis and improvisation alongside theatre history and dramatic literature. Production and technical modules commonly include stagecraft, scenic design, lighting, sound, costume construction, prop-making and stage management. Students also take directing, playwriting/dramaturgy, and courses in theatre management or arts administration.
Most degree plans feature a practicum or production requirement: students are expected to participate in multiple mainstage and studio productions each year in roles onstage or in the production team. Additional learning experiences often include scene workshops, company rehearsals, portfolio or design labs, seminars on audition technique, and internship/externship placements with regional theatres, production companies or entertainment organisations.
Applicants must hold a recognised secondary-school diploma or equivalent and submit official academic transcripts. Admission to performance-focused tracks normally requires an audition; design, technical and production concentrations often require a portfolio or evidence of relevant experience. Additional materials may include a personal statement outlining theatre experience and goals, and one or more letters of recommendation.
Successful applicants typically demonstrate previous practical theatre involvement—such as community, school or professional productions—and the ability to manage the programme's combination of academic coursework and production commitments. Candidates whose first language is not English may need to meet the university's English-proficiency requirements.
Graduates enter a wide range of theatre- and entertainment-related careers. Common paths include work as actors, directors, stage managers, lighting, set or costume designers, sound technicians and prop masters. Alumni also find roles in arts administration, production management, playwriting, dramaturgy, education and community arts programmes. The programme prepares students for graduate study in performance, design, directing or theatre studies, and for crossover opportunities in film, television, event production and the broader live-entertainment industry.
Hands-on production experience, internships and connections with regional venues and the Nashville creative community support transitions into entry-level professional roles or continued study.
MTSU's Department of Theatre and Dance offers an active production season and multiple performance spaces where students gain frequent, supervised stage experience. Facilities typically include dedicated theatres, design and scene shops, lighting and sound labs, and costume studios that support practical learning. Faculty are practising artists and theatre professionals who combine classroom teaching with mentorship on productions.
Located near a vibrant performing-arts and music industry in the Nashville region, the university provides access to internships, guest artists and collaborative opportunities beyond the campus. Small-class, studio-based training emphasises ensemble work and professional readiness, while university-wide resources support academic breadth, scholarship opportunities and career services.
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