Theatre Degrees: Bachelor's, Associate & Online Class Info

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What will you learn in a theatre degree program? Read about degree requirements, the pros and cons of an associate and bachelor's degree and potential careers.
  • At a Glance
  • Associate
  • Bachelor's

Theatre Associate and Bachelor's Degrees at a Glance

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Theatre degree programs can prepare students for careers as actors, directors, producers, theatre technicians, teachers and related careers. Graduates may find work in the theatre, television, motion picture studios and more. Some graduates may choose to get their certification or license to teach acting in high schools. Most theatre degree programs feature courses in theatre history, acting, music, stage production, and film.

You should be aware that many of the jobs closely related to this degree, such as actors, producers and directors are stressful and that theatre graduates will probably experience frequent unemployment. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, most theatre-related jobs are short-term. The average hourly wage for actors in May 2011 was $34.00. The rate of job growth from 2010-2020 was only four percent. That rate is slower than average for all occupations.

Associate Bachelor's
Who is this Degree for? Students interested in getting a solid foundation in the theatre arts Students who want to advance in their careers and devote more time to a particular area of the theatre arts
Common Career Paths (with approximate mean annual salary) - Actors ($34/hour - annual wage is not available)* - Producers and Directors ($92,000)*
- Set and Exhibit Designers ($55,000)*
- High school teachers ($57,000)*
Time to Completion Two years full-time Four years full time
Common Graduation Requirements - General education courses
- Roughly 6 -11 theatre and related courses
- Participation in theatre productions
- General education courses
- Roughly 19-25 theatre and related courses
Senior interview may be required
Prerequisites High school diploma or GED - High school diploma or GED
- Entrance audition may be required
Online Availability Extremely rare due to hands-on nature of the field Extremely rare due to hands-on nature of the field

Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2011 figures).

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  • At a Glance
  • Associate
  • Bachelor's

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