As a student in Duquesne’s Department of Theater Arts—whether majoring or minoring—you’ll
study various aspects of theater, such as acting, directing, playwriting, stage design
and technical production. You’ll take core courses in theater history, theory and
criticism, through which you’ll gain a broad understanding of the history and evolution
of theater, as well as the theoretical concepts and critical perspectives used to
analyze and interpret theatrical works.
As a theater arts major, you’ll examine and experience the relationship between drama
as literary artifact and drama as performance, and you’ll learn the skills necessary
to translate the written word into a living, breathing, dynamic art.
You’ll work on the technical side of dramatic presentation, developing invaluable
problem-solving skills, building leadership qualities and learning to work successfully
in a team environment. You’ll also learn unique skills that will keep you calm in
a crisis, keep your mind flexible, make you versatile and courageous and train you
to have a critical eye.
As in all Duquesne’s liberal arts programs, you’ll develop flexibility of mind, clarity
and precision in written and oral communication and an ability to negotiate an ever
more complex world.
"I love being a theater major due to the hands-on training I’ve received, student
run programs and the connections I’ve made through my professors."
Emma M., Theater Arts Undergraduate Student
Program Information
Our Theater Arts majors and minors explore the world of theater through acting, directing,
playwriting, stage design, and technical production.
THEA 210 History of Theater I (Ancient to Renaissance)
THEA 211 History of Theater II (Renaissance to Present)
THEA 305 Directing I
9 credit hours selected from 300-400 level English Department courses that emphasize
dramatic literature.
12 credit hours, chosen from the following:
THEA 201Acting I
THEA 301 Acting II
THEA 302 Acting III
THEA 303 Acting IV
THEA 310 Technical Theater
THEA 405 Directing II
THEA 481/ENG 434W Dramatic Criticism
ENGL 301W Playwriting I
ENGL 400W Playwriting II
THEA 496 Directed Studies (including practica in Theater Management, Technical Theater, and
Performance)
Minor in Theater Arts
Students who choose theater arts as a minor find that it provides an invaluable set
of skills.
9 credit hours:
THEA 151: Introduction to Theater
THEA 210: History of Theater I (Ancient to Renaissance)
THEA 211: History of Theater II (Renaissance to Present)
6 credit hours selected from 300-400-level English department courses that emphasize
dramatic literature.
6 credit hours, chosen from the following:
ENGL 203: Introduction to Drama
THEA 201: Acting I (2 credits)
THEA 301: Acting II (2 credits)
THEA 302: Acting III (2 credits)
THEA 303: Acting IV (2 credits)
THEA 305: Directing I
THEA 310: Technical Theater
THEA 405: Directing II
THEA 481/ENG 434W: Dramatic Criticism
ENGL 301W: Playwriting I
ENGL 400W: Playwriting II
THEA 496: Directed Studies (including practica in Theater Management, Technical Theater
and Performance
Internships
Duquesne’s theater arts program will enhance your academic experience with real-world
working opportunities with off-campus professional companies and unions. Students
can apply for prearranged internships with organizations such as:
Pittsburgh Public Theater
City Theater
Quantum Theater
Gemini Children’s Theater
International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees
Belajack Casting Agency
Civic Light Opera
Opera Theater of Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh Symphony
Many others
Embracing the Art Form
As a student of the theater arts, you’ll be immersed in a unique, artistic atmosphere
featuring the following supportive elements that will increase your appreciation for
the artform and build skills that will be valuable far beyond the stage:
A holistic, liberal arts approach to the study of theater. This means you’ll get a
well-rounded education in the many aspects of theater, from studying the literature
of the plays themselves to developing skills needed both backstage in production and
on stage as an actor.
A supportive learning environment that includes small classes, one-on-one mentoring,
and the chance to work on independent projects.
The opportunity to get involved in student productions of the Red Masquers starting
your freshman year! The Summer Company, Exhalations Dance Troupe and Encore Show Choir
provide additional campus performance opportunities. This practical experience provides
valuable skills and connections within the local theater industry.
Theater arts students can also develop their performance and behind-the-scenes skills
in the department’s Genesius Theater.
