Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft

What is a Degree in Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft?

Earning an education in dramatic/theatre arts and stagecraft will prepare students for professional theatre careers working in a variety of on-stage and behind-the-scenes roles. Students will learn the fundamentals of dramatic arts, including acting and the technical aspects of what it takes to produce a show.  These courses will prepare students to work both in the limelight and behind-the-scenes in plays, movies, or television shows.

There are many different facets of putting on a show, and as a result there are also many things to learn for dramatic/theatre arts and stagecraft students.  Just some of the classes a student might take in one of these programs include:

• script writing
• acting
• directing
• production
• dramatic literature
• makeup production
• costume design and creation
• theatre management

Students who pursue an education in dramatic/theatre arts and stagecraft will not only learn how a show is created and produced, but they will also study dramatic literature and the various genres and movements throughout dramatic history.  They will also take courses in which they will learn about the important technical aspects of creating a play, television show, or movie, that are often done out of the audience's sight.

Many drama courses are available in both an online college and traditional, on-campus learning format. Because drama and theatre require so much hands-on work and practice, online classes aren't as widely available as they are for some other degree programs.  Even online programs, such as some theatre education degrees, require students to attend workshops or help produce performances.

Dramatic/theatre arts and stagecraft programs are offered at every educational level, from undergraduate through graduate school.  Certificates, associate's degrees, bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, and doctorate degrees are all available in this area of study, affording students the opportunity to pursue an education for as long or as little as they need or want.

Career Opportunities for Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft

Though many students who pursue an education in dramatic/theatre arts and stagecraft want to become famous actors, only a small percentage achieve success.  In the coming years employment of actors is projected to grow “about as fast as the average for all occupations” according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.  Unfortunately, despite an average growth rate, there will also likely be a great deal of competition for open acting positions.  The job growth and level of competition is projected to be the same for directors and producers as well.  Many who work in this field hold additional jobs to supplement their incomes, as work in theatre, on television, or in movies can often be inconsistent.  Many of the jobs available in this field are also centered on major television and movie-making cities, such as New York or Los Angeles, and are not as readily available throughout the country as other job opportunities.

We're sorry, we currently do not have any Online schools offering Arts, Fashion & Design programs in Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft. We are working diligently to add more schools to our database. In the meantime, please click here to see if there are any Campus Schools in your area.

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