Theatre Arts, BFA

Program Entrance Requirements

The prerequisites for applying to all BFA programs are: (1) successful completion of THEA 1033 , THEA 1513 , and THEA 1713 , (2) at least 1 credit of production practicum, and (3) timely progress toward early completion of the University Studies requirements.

Students choosing the BFA option are expected to develop personal attitudes and work standards which foster the professional standards of the program and of the performance field.

Students are admitted by audition, interview, and acceptance into the Acting Emphasis; and by interview, portfolio review, and acceptance into the Theatre Design and Technology Emphasis and the Theatre Education Emphasis. Periodic audition and/or review will be undertaken to determine good standing in these  programs.

Students in these programs also complete a capstone recital or project during their senior year.

Acting Emphasis (AE) (77 Credits) (2.75 GPA)

Minimum GPA for Admission: 2.75, USU; 2.75, Career
Minimum GPA for Graduation: 2.75, major courses; 2.75, USU; 2.75, Career
Minimum Grade Accepted: B in each course required for the emphasis; B- in each course required for the major

The Acting Emphasis is for students desiring to become professional performers. Coursework for this emphasis covers acting, voice, movement, and directing fundamentals, as well as an understanding of the technical and design responsibilities of the production. Students also participate in the build and running of all department productions. Students must choose from a variety of literature and dance courses to enhance their abilities and opportunities for creative expression.

Students accepted into the BFA Acting program are expected to audition for each mainstage production and be available to take any role assigned. In addition, students have an audition and progress retention review with performance faculty each semester.

Students seeking the BFA degree must work closely with advisors. Most University Studies courses and the core curriculum should be completed before the end of the sophomore year, as training is conducted in a manner adapted from conservatory practice. Individual needs, interests, and goals of the student are taken into consideration for selection of elective courses.

Theatre Design and Technology Emphasis (TDE) (74-78 credits) (2.75 GPA)

Minimum GPA for Admission: 2.75, USU; 2.75, Career
Minimum GPA for Graduation: 2.75, major courses; 2.75, USU; 2.75, Career
Minimum Grade Accepted: B in each course required for the emphasis; B- in each course required for the major

The Theatre Design and Technology Emphasis is for students interested in the operations and physical settings of performance production. Coursework covers  makeup, stage lighting, scene design and construction, costume design and construction, sound design, and stage management, as well as performance and  literature skills. Students complete a yearly portfolio review with design faculty, as well as an open display of their work. Students in this emphasis are required  to work on the building and running of all department productions.

Theatre Education Emphasis (79 credits)

Theatre Courses (44 credits) + STEP (35 credits)

Minimum GPA for Admission: 2.75, USU; 2.75, Career
Minimum GPA for Graduation: 2.75, major courses; 2.75, USU; 2.75, Career
Minimum Grade Accepted: B- in all required courses

The Theatre Education emphasis prepares students to teach at the secondary level. Coursework emphasizes performance skills, design and technical skills and requirements, production concerns, and fundamental voice and movement development. Students are expected to participate in the build and running of all department productions.

Students in this emphasis must comply with the requirements of the Emma Eccles Jones College of Education and Human Services. Application must be made for admission into the teacher education program during the last semester of the sophomore year. Students may then begin completing the Secondary Teacher  Education Program (STEP), a series of courses designed to provide students with necessary teaching skills and techniques. The STEP is required as part of the standards for licensure to teach in the public schools. Admission to the STEP requires a minimum 2.75 GPA.

A teaching minor is required for this emphasis, and should be chosen in consultation with the academic advisor.

Students completing a teaching emphasis are eligible for licensure to teach at the secondary education level in most states. The Emma Eccles Jones College of  Education and Human Services can provide information regarding teaching eligibility and available programs.