Shawnee State University

What you'll study

This undergraduate theatre programme combines practical studio work, classroom study and production practicum. Core areas typically include acting, voice and movement, scene and costume design, lighting, scenic construction, stage management, directing and theatre history. Students study dramatic literature and script analysis, playwriting fundamentals, and technical theatre skills such as rigging, drafting and basic shop practices.

The course structure balances foundational skills in the early years with increasingly specialised elective options and leadership roles in later years. Students participate in departmental productions as performers and crew, undertake collaborative projects, and complete a capstone or senior practicum that showcases their chosen concentration — performance, production/technical or design.

• Acting and rehearsal techniques
• Voice and movement for performers
• Directing and dramaturgy
• Theatre history and dramatic literature
• Scenic, lighting and costume design
• Stagecraft, shop skills and production technology
• Stage management and production practicum
• Playwriting and script analysis

Entry requirements

Applicants need a high-school diploma or equivalent and a satisfactory academic record. Typical documentation includes official transcripts and a personal statement describing theatrical experience and goals. Performance-track applicants are often asked to audition or submit a video audition; design and technical applicants may be asked to submit a portfolio or documentation of technical work.

Additional materials commonly requested are letters of recommendation from teachers or theatre professionals and completion of any required placement or diagnostic work in voice or theatre skills. Shawnee State evaluates applications holistically, considering academic preparation, creative potential and commitment to collaborative theatre-making.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of careers across professional, community and educational theatre as well as related creative industries. Common pathways include:

• Actor or ensemble performer in regional theatre, touring companies and screen work
• Stage manager, production manager or technical director
• Scenic, lighting or costume designer and technician
• Director, dramaturg or playwright
• Theatre educator or teaching artist in schools and community programmes
• Arts administration, producing and audience development roles
• Further study in MFA or specialised technical and design programmes

Many graduates combine multiple roles — for example performing while producing or teaching — and use the practical training to transition into related fields such as film/television production, event management and creative project coordination.

Why study at Shawnee State University

Shawnee State provides a close-knit learning environment with opportunities for sustained practical experience. Small class sizes mean students receive personalised direction from faculty with professional theatre experience, and the curriculum emphasises learning by doing through regular departmental productions and production assignments.

The university’s location supports regional engagement and internship opportunities with theatres and arts organisations in southern Ohio and nearby metropolitan areas. Students benefit from accessible facilities for rehearsal and technical training, collaborative projects across disciplines, and advising that helps align academic work with professional goals in performance, design and production.