Theatre and Dance
Major in the College of Fine Arts
The Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Theatre and Dance degree allows students to explore multiple disciplines within the department, in addition to providing a solid general education.
Students are trained to work in professional arts environments and educated in the rich traditions of theatre and dance. The Department of Theatre and Dance believes students should hold deep, complex understandings of theatre and dance so that they can participate in the widest possible cultural conversations about the arts. The elective hours included in this degree make it appropriate for students who have an interest outside of the department, such as a simultaneous major in another college or an academic or pre-professional program such as pre-med.
Students complete core coursework including Languages of the Stage, Production Lab, Technical Theatre, and Theatre History. Additional coursework may be selected from the following areas:
- Dance performance and choreography
- Design and technology (includes set design, lighting design, sound design, costume design, and stage management)
- History, literature and dramaturgy
- Performer’s process
- Playwriting and directing
- Theatre for youth and communities
Declaration Requirements
ShowProspective University of Texas at Austin students should visit UT Admissions to learn about the application process and how to declare a major.
How to Declare
ShowUndergraduates currently enrolled at The University of Texas at Austin who wish to change to a major in the College of Fine Arts need to apply for an internal transfer. Internal transfer applicants are students currently enrolled at The University of Texas at Austin who are seeking to transfer within or into a major in the College of Fine Arts. Find out more about the internal transfer process, including the procedures and requirements to apply. View helpful hints and FAQs for more information.
Prospective external transfer students can learn about the transfer application process to the College of Fine Arts.
Required Courses
ShowView the Theatre and Dance degree plans for a list of required coursework in this major.
Personality
ShowLearn about the student experience in the Department of Theatre and Dance by viewing student spotlights and attending performances.
Skills
ShowThe study of theatre equips a student with a broad range of communication and organizational skills applicable to many careers, including those in the performing arts. The theatre major's presentation skills, ability to perform in public, and control of the voice and body provide a solid basis for working effectively with others.
Theatre also develops the ability to:
- Concentrate intensely
- Listen introspectively
- Observe keenly
- Solve problems creatively
- Think critically
- Develop a project collaboratively
- Work independently
- Work under pressure and meet deadlines
- Maintain composure when faced with the unexpected
