BA-Theatre & Comm Arts

For those interested in a hybrid degree, encompassing all the best of what the School of Communication and the Arts has to offer, the BA in Theatre and Communication Arts is the perfect choice. Students are able to gain transferable skills in digital design production, theatrical design, screen and stage performance, theatre management, cultural studies in media and the arts, along with practicums and internships, on and off campus, to apply the skills and learning experiences from the classroom in professional settings with regional professional arts organizations and media outlets, regional for- and non- profit arts organizations, major television network affiliates, and advertising/public relations/website design and promotion creators. Students achieve this degree by following one of three flexible track options:

• Theatre & Communication Arts Track: A true jack of all trades, this track is for the student who wants to do it all with classes such as Digital Drawing and Television Production.

• Performance Track (see the BA-PERF program): This track focuses on the performance aspects of the craft with classes such as Advanced Acting and Improvisation.

• Design/Technical Track: This track focuses on the design and technical aspects of the business with classes such as Costume and Makeup as well as Stage Management.

Mission Statement

The Performing and Visual Arts program in the School of Communication and the Arts is designed to prepare students to become accomplished artists in a variety of media, including arts appreciation, media performance, music appreciation, theatre performance, theatre technologies and design. Students in the programs (Theatre and Communication Arts, Theatre Performance for Media and Stage, Theatre Technologies and Design majors, as well as Fine Arts and Theatre minors) engage in comprehensive, multidisciplinary education in performing and visual arts including advertising and promotions, digital media production, human communication studies, music and culture, the performing arts, theatrical and stage management, theatrical production and design, and appreciation of the visual and performing arts.

Vision Statement

Our vision for the Performing and Visual Arts program in the School of Communication and the Arts is to provide sound instruction and creative spaces whereby students grow in knowledge of the arts and can explore their crafts, gifts, and skills in many artistic disciplines. By doing so we engage students’ intellects and emotions, inspire creative viewpoints by which students look at creation and the loving co-creators that we are to one another, prepare students for careers in the arts and/or careers where transferable skills are employable, and provide the Gannon University and Erie communities with quality artistic experiences that enhance all of our lives.