Program Overview
Introduction to the B.F.A. in Theatre Education Program
The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Education degree plan is a nationally recognized, pre-professional program for students interested in teaching theatre at the high school, middle school, or elementary school level. This program leads to K-12 theatre teacher certification.
Program Overview
The B.F.A. in Theatre Education degree plan offers a comprehensive curriculum in theatre, drama, technical theatre, and educational methods combined with in-depth field and student teaching experiences. Outstanding faculty provide students with a well-rounded education, preparing them for a career in theatre education.
Performance Opportunities
There are more than 20 performance opportunities each year for students majoring in theatre. Many productions are student-produced, providing opportunities to develop new skills as directors, writers, production managers, designers, and dramaturgs.
Curriculum
The program includes a comprehensive curriculum in theatre, drama, technical theatre, and educational methods. Students also participate in in-depth field and student teaching experiences, which provide hands-on training in teaching theatre.
Faculty
The faculty for the B.F.A. in Theatre Education program includes:
- Megan Alrutz: Associate Department Chair, Professor, Drama and Theatre for Youth and Communities / Theatre Education
- Michael Ávila: Assistant Professor of Instruction, Drama and Theatre for Youth and Communities / Theatre Education
- Joshua Rashon Streeter: Lecturer
- Sara M. Simons: Co-Head, Drama and Theatre for Youth and Communities / Theatre Education, Associate Professor of Instruction, Drama and Theatre for Youth and Communities / Theatre Education
Theatre Education FAQs
How do I apply and audition?
Detailed step-by-step application instructions for the B.F.A. in Theatre Education are available.
How many students do you accept into the program?
The program aims for an incoming class of 25 B.F.A. in Theatre Education students.
Why should I train to be a theatre educator at UT Austin?
Theatre Education is uniquely designed to deliver a professional sequence in teaching methods and training. Unlike other programs that add a minor in education to your major in theatre, this program is fully-integrated and overseen by exceptional faculty mentors.
When do I get to teach?
In addition to practice lessons in class, B.F.A. in Theatre Education candidates will student-teach in a local school during the spring semester of their final year.
What production opportunities will I have as a Theatre Education student?
The department produces an annual season of six to eight main stage productions, encompassing a wide variety of performance experiences. The Cohen New Works Festival brings more than 30 original works by students to life every other spring.
Where are recent Theatre Education graduates working?
Theatre Education graduates teach theatre throughout Texas and across the United States. Many students teach for a while and then go on to get a master's degree, afterward returning to teach theatre, become school or district arts administrators, or principals. Other graduates also teach in professional theaters where they work as teaching artists or education directors.
Sample Degree Plan
A sample degree plan for the B.F.A. in Theatre Education program is available, outlining the required courses and credits for the four-year program.