English - Theater

An English/Theatre major emphasizes traditional English skills such as writing, critical thinking, and literary analysis, as well as performance skills including acting, directing, and design. English/Theatre students become active members in both the English and Theatre departments. This concentration allows students to expand their studies of writing and literature into the world of Theatre by taking courses in the History of Theatre, Contemporary Drama, and Playwriting. Students also have the opportunity to explore the Theatre outside of the textbook by studying Stage and Lighting Design, Make-up, and Directing. Students work together to construct each school production, ranging from Shakespeare to contemporary pieces, musicals to comedies, and are encouraged to participate in collegiate level speech and theatre competitions. The English Department already offers a minor in Theatre for those students interested in Theatre but desiring majors in other fields of study.

Related Occupations

English/Theatre students can pursue graduate work in the more scholarly side of Theatre. They are also uniquely suited for any work where strong writing and communication skills are required. The English/Theatre graduate typically begins a career that involves strong communication and writing abilities. The English/Theatre student may pursue a professional career in Theatre or continue to graduate studies in Theatre. Future occupations include playwriting, screenwriting, dramaturgy, education law, library studies, arts management.

Fast Facts

• Students study a true blend of English and Theatre.
• Students will still have opportunities to work onstage and off.
• Students will learn to appreciate both traditional literatures as well as dramatic literature.
• If you are a writer, this degree offers you the widest variety of writing experiences possible (fiction, poetry, playwriting, professional writing).
• Students will be uniquely prepared for fields that require good interpersonal skills as well as strong writing and communication skills.
• Catherine Dee Holly, 2014 graduate, is now a professional working actor.