Visual Arts/Performing Arts Major
The Visual and Performing Arts majors offer an interdisciplinary approach which provides both breadth and depth in the Visual and Performing Arts. Students may choose a major in Art History, Graphic Design or Studio Arts, or they may choose a General major selecting courses from several of the Department’s areas. Students may also choose a Visual and Performing Arts major with a concentration in either Music or Theatre Arts. Students with specific career strategies may declare a double major with, for example, Business, Communication, Elementary Education, English, History, Philosophy, Psychology, Religious Studies or Sociology. The Visual and Performing Arts Majors prepare students for graduate work or career possibilities in museums, galleries, corporate collections, graphic design, photography, teaching, art conservation and art therapy.
The concentration in Theatre Arts provides the student with an additional focus of study in the humanities, education, and collaborative arts. The study of drama incorporates theoretical and practical knowledge in a variety of areas touching many cultures and eras. The personal development of the student is aided by a deeper understanding of the workings of the human imagination and emotions, the use of the body and voice as a means of expression, and the complexities of interpersonal relationships as seen in art and life. By taking part in the production of plays, the student’s sense of responsibility and self-discipline are further tested and strengthened. This program enables students to pursue further goals which may include: graduate work in theatre and related fields; creative dramatics in primary, secondary and special needs education; writing; development of community theatres; arts management; and careers stressing interpersonal communication.
The Visual and Performing Arts Majors each require 11 courses. General Major:
Students may choose from any offerings in the department.
- At least two 100-level courses
- Three to four 200-level courses
- Three to four 300- and 400-level courses
- An Internship or Directed Study.
Visual and Performing Arts majors may also choose a specific concentration in Music or Theatre Arts. Concentration in Theatre Arts:
Additional Requirements:
Of the eleven courses required, nine must be VPT courses, (VPT 225 and VPT 226 are excluded). The other two courses may be additional VPT, or chosen from the following: COM 215 , COM 220 , EDU 316 , ENG 204 , ENG 280 , ENG 322 , ENG 324 , ENG 325 , ENG 326 , ENG 327 , ENG 353 , ENG 354 , ENG 357 , ENG 381 , ENG 382 , VPD 141 , VPM 232 , VPD 256 .
Along with course work, the student must participate in at least four departmental productions (not including work required by courses). The work may involve performance, directing, dramaturgy, design, playwriting, publicity or technical areas and must be approved by the Program Director. Visual and Performing Arts Capstones
Seniors are required to take a Capstone course in their major area of study. Theatre Arts
See Professor Sankus for details |