Communication and Theatre

253.535.7761
www.plu.edu/communication-theatre
coth@plu.edu

THE BACHELOR OF ARTS IN COMMUNICATION (B.A.C.) and the BACHELOR OF FINE ARTS IN THEATRE (B.F.A.) are pre-professional degrees intended to equip students for careers and graduate programs focusing on particular professional fields.

Courses in the Department of Communication and Theatre that satisfy General Education Program Elements

The only course with the prefix COMA that counts toward the university general education program element in the Arts (AR) is COMA 120: Media in the World.
COMA 303: Gender Communication meets the Alternative Perspectives Diversity (A) requirement
COMA 304: Intercultural Communication meets the Cross-Cultural Perspectives Diversity (C) requirement.
THEA 271: China Through Film meets the Cross-Cultural Perspectives Diversity (C) and Arts (AR) requirements.
The following courses from Theatre and Dance may be used to meet the general education program element in the Arts (AR):
- THEA 160, 222, 235, 250, 255, 271, 355, 359, 453, 455, and DANC 170.

Communication Core Courses

Students who major in Communication must complete the Communication Core. Foundational coursework in Communication uses the COMA designation; these specific courses may be formal prerequisites to other coursework in Communication.

COMA 101 or 190: Introduction to Communication (4)
COMA 102: Communication Ethics (4)
COMA 212: Public Speaking (2)
COMA 215: Writing in Communication Careers (4)
COMA 399: Career Preparation (1)
COMA 495: Internship (1 to 12)
COMA 499: Capstone (2)

Declaration of Major

Students may declare a major in Communication upon successful completion of COMA 101(190): Introduction to Communication.

Students wishing to declare a major in Theatre (B.A. or B.F.A. degree options) must have a cumulative grade point average of 2.50 or higher. No prior coursework in Theatre is required.

Minor Requirement for Communication Majors

The Bachelor of Arts in Communication (B.A.C.) requires the completion of a minor.

Minor Requirement for Theatre Majors

The Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and the Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) in Theatre requires the completion of either a minor approved by the major advisor or a self-directed study program that includes the following areas:

4 semester hours in English (Writing)
4 semester hours in English (Literature)
8 semester hours in Social Sciences

Admission Requirements for the B.F.A. Program

Admission to the B.F.A. program will be by application at a time after the completion of THEA 160. Successful applicants must have a 2.50 cumulative grade point average in their college course work and successfully complete an audition conducted by the Theatre faculty.

BACHELOR OF ARTS IN COMMUNICATION (B.A.C.) DEGREE
Major in Communication
44 or 46 semester hours, plus a minor

CONCENTRATIONS

Students in this program select from the following concentrations: Communication Studies, Conflict and Global Peacebuilding, Journalism, and Public Relations/Advertising.

Communication Studies
44 semester hours, plus a minor

Communication Core Courses (see list above)
12 semester hours from: COMA 301, 305, 306, 401
COMA 303: Gender and Communication (4)
COMA 304: Intercultural Communication (4)
May substitute 1 semester hour COMA 225/425 (co-curricular work in speech and debate, or theatre, or student media) for COMA 495 requirement.
Must complete 8 semester hours of college-level foreign language study. (High school language study does not count. Courses to not count towards meeting the PLU Entrance Language Requirement.)

Conflict Management and Global Peacebuilding
44 semester hours, plus a minor

Communication Core Courses (see list above)
COMA 304: Intercultural Communication (4) or COMA 306: Persuasion (4) or COMA 401: Visual Culture (4)
COMA 313: Dialog (2) or COMA 214: Group Communication (2)
COMA 340: Conflict and Communication (4)
COMA 341: Journalism and Conflict (4)
COMA 342: Applied Research (4)
COMA 441: Conflict and Peacebuilding (4)
COMA 442: Negotiation (2) or completion of a Pierce County Dispute Resolution Certificate
4 semester hours of electives selected in consultation with advisor or completion of an approved Study Away experience (COMA 391 or 393)
Minor Required: (Option 1 or Option 2)
- Option 1: Anthropology, Environmental Studies, Global Studies, Political Science, Psychology, Social Work, Sociology, or Women’s and Gender Studies.
- Option 2: Completion of 8 semester hours of college-level foreign language study. (High school language study does not count. Courses do not count towards meeting the PLU Entrance Language Requirement.)

Journalism
44 semester hours, plus a minor

Communication Core Courses (see list above)
COMA 120: Media and the World (4)
COMA 275: Digital Arts Lab (2)
COMA 302: Media Ethics (2)
COMA 343: Multimedia Writing and Reporting (4)
COMA 344: Multimedia Research and Editing (4)
COMA 421: Communication Law (4)
COMA 427: Application Seminar: Advanced Co-curricular Production (4) or COMA 426: Application Seminar: Media Lab (4)
4 semester hours of electives chosen in consultation with advisor
Minor Required: A recognized university minor

Public Relations/Advertising
46 semester hours, plus a minor

Communication Core Courses (see list above)
COMA 275: Digital Arts Lab (2)
COMA 342: Applied Research (4)
COMA 360: Public Relations Writing (4)
COMA 361: Public Relations Principles and Practices (4)
COMA 362: Advertising (4)
COMA 461: Public Relations Planning and Management (4)
8 semester hours in electives selected in consultation with advisor
Minor Required: A recognized university minor

BACHELOR OF ARTS (B.A.) DEGREE
Major in Theatre
44 semester hours, plus a minor

CONCENTRATIONS

Acting/Directing
44 semester hours, plus a minor

THEA 160: Introduction to Theatre (4)
THEA 215: Voice and Movement I (4)
THEA 250: Acting I – Fundamentals (4)
THEA 255: Theatre Production (4)
THEA 290: Stage Management (2) OR THEA 320: Stage Makeup I (2) OR THEA 346: The Audition (2)
THEA 330: Script Analysis (4)
THEA 350: Acting II – Scene Study (4)
THEA 360: Theatre History I (4)
THEA 365: Theatre History II (4)
THEA 380: Directing I (4)
THEA 499: Capstone (2)
Electives: 4 semester hours selected in consultation with advisor
Minor Required: recognized university minor

Design/Technical
44 semester hours, plus a minor

THEA 160: Introduction to Theatre (4)
THEA 225: Theatre Practicum (1)
THEA 250: Acting I – Fundamentals (4)
THEA 255: Theatre Production (4)
THEA 260: Stagecraft (4)
THEA 265: Fundamentals of Design (4)
THEA 330: Script Analysis (4)
THEA 355: Lighting Design (4) OR THEA 453: Costume Design (4) OR THEA 455: Scenic Design (4)
THEA 360: Theatre History I (4)
THEA 365: Theatre History II (4)
THEA 425: Theatre Practicum (1)
THEA 499: Capstone (2)
Elective: 4 semester hours selected in consultation with advisor
Minor Required: recognized university minor

BACHELOR OF FINE ARTS (B.F.A.) DEGREE
Major in Theatre
60 semester hours, plus a minor

CONCENTRATIONS

Acting/Directing

THEA 160: Introduction to Theatre (4)
THEA 215: Voice and Movement I (4)
THEA 250: Acting I – Fundamentals (4)
THEA 255: Theatre Production (4)
THEA 315: Voice and Movement II (4)
THEA 320: Makeup I (2)
THEA 321: Makeup II (2)
THEA 330: Script Analysis (4)
THEA 346: The Audition (2)
THEA 350: Acting II – Scene Study (4)
THEA 360: Theatre History I (4)
THEA 365: Theatre History II (4)
THEA 380: Directing I (4)
THEA 450: Acting III – Shakespeare (4)
THEA 480: Directing II (4)
THEA 499: Capstone (2)
Elective: 4 semester hours selected in consultation with advisor
Minor Required: recognized university minor

Design/Technical
60 semester hours, plus a minor

THEA 160: Introduction to Theatre (4)
THEA 225: Theatre Practicum (1)
THEA 250: Acting I – Fundamentals (4)
THEA 255: Theatre Production (4)
THEA 260: Stagecraft (4)
THEA 265: Fundamentals of Design (4)
THEA 330: Script Analysis (4)
8 semester hours from: THEA 355: Lighting Design (4) OR THEA 453: Costume Design (4) OR THEA 455: Scenic Design (4)
THEA 360: Theatre History I (4)
THEA 365: Theatre History II (4)
THEA 390: Visual History – Period Costume and Décor (4)
THEA 425: Theatre Practicum (1)
THEA 496: Advanced Scenographic Design (4)
THEA 499: Capstone (2)
Electives: 8 semester hours selected in consultation with advisor
Minor Required: recognized university minor

MINORS

Communication

20 semester hours, including COMA 101(190) or 120; 4 semester hours of two-credit elective skills classes; plus 12 semester hours from 300- or 400-level communication courses selected in consultation with advisor.

Theatre

20 semester hours, including THEA 160, 250, 255, and 330, plus 4 semester hours in upper-division electives selected in consultation with advisor.

Dance Performance

20 semester hours, including: DANC 170, 222, 240, 462; THEA 230, 235, 355; 4 semester hours in electives from: PHED 223, 225, 362 or THEA 225, 491, or MUSI 120. Some DANC courses are cross-listed with the Department of Kinesiology.

Publishing and Printing Arts

Cross-listed with the Department of English. See the description of the minor under Publishing and Printing Arts.

Specialized Business Minor in Marketing for Communication and Theatre Majors

20 semester hours, including BUSA 201, 305, 308, 364; and 4 semester hours from BUSA 362 or 363.

Communication (COMA) Undergraduate-Level Course

COMA 101 : Introduction to Communication

Introduces the study of human communication. Students will learn and apply a wide array of analytical theory and techniques across diverse human experiences from interpersonal to public communication and mass communication contexts to become more aware and effective communicators. (4)

COMA 102 : Communication Ethics

Studies the basic principles of moral philosophy and explores ethical issues involving those engaged in communication professions such as journalism, public relations, broadcasting, and advertising. Students use case studies to learn to recognize ethical dilemmas and develop strategies for dealing with them. (2)

COMA 120 : Media in the World - AR

Introduces the critical study of mass communication and its influence on community and culture. The course will survey how the technical, economic and behavioral elements of media influence its structure and content. (4)

COMA 190 : FYEP190: Inquiry Seminar

A four-credit seminar to introduce students to the methods and topics of study within a particular academic discipline or field. Students practice the academic skills that are at the center of the General Education Program. (4)

COMA 211 : Debate

This course introduces the practice of academic and political debate. It introduces principles and theories of argument. Students will have opportunities for in-class and public debates. (2)

COMA 212 : Public Speaking

Introduces the basic techniques of public speaking. Students complete several speeches and learn the basic skills of speechmaking, including topic selections, research, organization, audience analysis, and delivery. Required of all Design/Tech majors. (2)

COMA 213 : Communication Writing

Examines principles of clear written expression that are needed for communication coursework and in communication-related careers. Focus is on writing mechanics, style, documentation formats, database searching, making claims clearly, and supporting claims with evidence in ways that are appropriate to context, purpose and audience. (2)

COMA 214 : Group Communication

Studies how people interact in groups. Introduces theoretical constructs regarding the role of groups in organizational and social settings. Provides experience in analyzing and improving group performance and interaction. (2)

COMA 215 : Writing in Communication Careers

Introduces students to the fundamental standards and expectations in communication writing. Includes styles and formats routinely used in both academic and professional communication writing and research. Also includes writing for multiple audiences. Reviews basic grammar, sentence and paragraph structures. This course will conclude with an EXIT EXAM (grammar/syntax/clarity) that must be passed to proceed to any major/concentration in the department. (4)

COMA 225 : Practicum

One semester hour credit may be earned each semester, but only four semester hours may be used to meet university requirements. Students put classroom theory to practical application by individually completing a project relating to an aspect of communication. An instructor in the area of interest must approve the project and agree to provide guidance. (1)

COMA 235 : Communication in Professional Settings

This course explores oral and written communication in the workplace by blending theory with practical application and skill development. Communication behavior in organizations, writing in professional contexts, interviewing; group communication; and public presentations will be examined. (4)

COMA 275 : Digital Arts Lab

Students explore the processes involved in preparing messages for visual presentation. Integrates design concepts with technical applications in print, web and video presentation. Includes open lab opportunity. (2)

COMA 287 : Special Topics in Communication

To provide undergraduate students with new, one-time, and developing courses not yet available in the regular curriculum. The title will be listed on the student term-based record as ST: followed by the specific title designated by the academic unit. (1 to 4)

COMA 288 : Special Topics in Communication

COMA 289 : Special Topics in Communication

COMA 291 : Directed Study

To provide individual undergraduate students with introductory study not available in the regular curriculum. The title will be listed on the student term-based record as DS: followed by the specific title designated by the student. (1 to 4)

COMA 301 : Media and Cultural Criticism

This course examines the role of media in producing systems of meanings and artifacts that shape popular culture and ideology. Students learn to use critical perspectives as lenses for studying texts of popular culture and for writing cultural criticism for popular and specialized audiences. (4)

COMA 302 : Media Ethics

Applies principles of moral philosophy to ethical issues involving those engaged within mass communication professions. Emphasis on encountering and resolving contemporary ethical issues in mass communication environments. Prerequisites: COMA 102 and 120. (2)

COMA 303 : Gender and Communication - A

This course examines the relationship between gender and communication in human interaction and media representations. Comparison and contrast of male and female communication styles, language usage and speech practices. Role of media in shaping gender ideals and possibilities. Prerequisites: COMA 101, 102, or consent of instructor. (4)

COMA 304 : Intercultural Communication - C

Studies the nature of communication among people of diverse cultures. The course examines contemporary theory and research and examines a variety of cultural variables including: cultural backgrounds, perception, social organization, language, and nonverbal aspects of messages. Prerequisites: COMA 101, 102, or consent of instructor. (4)

COMA 305 : Argument and Advocacy

Studies how people use reason giving in social decision-making. Analysis of genres, forms, and techniques of arguers. Focus is on methods of creating, understanding, and criticizing arguments. (4)

COMA 306 : Persuasion

The study of persuasion as a means of personal and social influence through rhetoric. Examines both rhetorical and social scientific traditions of study, ethical and social implications of contemporary persuasion in political, commercial and other contexts. Opportunity for original research projects. Prerequisites: COMA 101, 102, 120, 213 or consent of instructor. (4)

COMA 312 : Advanced Public Speaking

Focuses on improving skill in public speaking. Introduces theories and techniques for effectively participating in various speaking contexts. Provides experience through writing and delivering a range of different kinds of public speeches. Prerequisites: COMA 101, 102, 212, or consent of instructor. (2)

COMA 313 : Dialog

Explores the process of using dialog as a way of facilitating conflict resolution. Focus is on creating supportive communication climates and methods for listening. Prerequisites: COMA 101, 102, 212, 215 or consent of instructor (2)

COMA 321 : The Book in Society

A critical study of the history of book culture and the role of books in modern society. Cross-listed with ENGL 311. (4)

COMA 322 : Publishing Procedures

A workshop introduction to the world of book publishing, involving students in decisions about what to publish and how to produce it. Cross-listed with ENGL 312. (4)

COMA 340 : Conflict and Communication

Studies the role of communication in the development and management of human and global conflict. Research and theories of prominent conflict and peace scholars along with significant case studies are used to analyze and understand sources of conflict and methods for building peace. Prerequisite: COMA 101 or consent of instructor. (4)

COMA 341 : Journalism and Conflict

Surveys the theories, practices and ethical considerations for reporting on conflicts throughout the world. Conflict-sensitive (sometimes called Peace Journalism) journalism is an alternative journalistic paradigm which seeks to enhance public understanding of conflicts by broadening the coverage of conflict from a war journalism model which emphasizes the roles of governmental decision-makers, and battle-related news reporting to a conflict-sensitive model which emphasizes understanding the roots of conflict; the perspectives of all sides in the dispute; and the need for on-going coverage after the cessation of hostilities. (4)

COMA 342 : Applied Research

An investigation of research methods critical to professional and academic communication. Key methods and constructs include informational interviewing, database search, survey and focus group design and administration, and basic data analysis. (4)

COMA 343 : Multimedia Writing and Reporting

Introduces students to various professional methods of writing across multimedia platforms. Students will engage in research, organization and presentation of non-fiction multimedia stories. In addition, students will learn to evaluate various multimedia products. Prerequisite: COMA 215. (4)

COMA 344 : Multimedia Research and Editing

Course incorporates contemporary methods, styles and formats used in comprehensive research and editing for multimedia products. Students will oversee development and design of non-fiction multimedia presentations while adhering to professional standards of media structure. Prerequisite: COMA 275. (4)

COMA 360 : Public Relations Writing

Introduces principles and processes involved in writing for an organization's diverse publics. Integrates persuasive techniques and communication theory with writing and production practice. Prerequisites: COMA 101, 102, 212, 215 or consent of instructor. (4)

COMA 361 : Public Relations: Principles and Practices

Introduces the theories, methods, and practice of public relations. Emphasizes technical and analytical skills. Prerequisites: COMA 101, 102, 212, 215 or consent of instructor. (4)

COMA 362 : Principles of Advertising

Introduces advertising theories and principles. Focuses on case studies and skills required in advertising practice. Prerequisites: COMA 101, 102, 212, 215 or consent of instructor (4)

COMA 387 : Topics in Communication

Special topics in communication s intended for unique opportunities to explore communication issues, methods, and viewpoints outside the normal curriculum. (1 to 4)

COMA 388 : Topics in Communication

Special topics in communication is intended for unique opportunities to explore communication issues, methods, and viewpoints outside the normal curriculum. (1 to 4)

COMA 389 : Topics in Communication

Special topics in communication is intended for unique opportunities to explore communication issues, methods, and viewpoints outside the normal curriculum (1 to 4)

COMA 391 : Communication Abroad

Exploration of communication systems and environments beyond the university in international cultural contexts. (1 to 4)

COMA 393 : Communication Abroad

Exploration of communication systems and environments beyond the university in international cultural contexts. (1 to 4)

COMA 399 : Career Exploration

Introduces students through the process of educational planning. Focus is on internship preparedness and initial development of portfolio or other capstone projects. (1)

COMA 401 : Visual Culture

Examines the central role of visual representation in contemporary culture and the ways in which we use, understand and are used by images. Emphasis on photography, film, television, new media, and commemorative art and architecture in the realms of advertising, politics, news, public advocacy and popular culture. Students will conduct research projects that analyze elements of visual culture. Prerequisites: COMA 101, 102, 212, 215 or consent of instruction. (4)

COMA 421 : Communication Law

Focuses on the principles of communication law and its application to various communication practices. Examines court cases, federal and state statutes and First Amendment theories. Prerequisites: COMA 101, 102, 120, 212, 215 or consent of instructor. (4)

COMA 425 : Communication Practicum

COMA 426 : Application Seminar: MediaLab

Students engage in all aspects of multimedia productions for various constituents. Professional standards of production and ethics will be used to evaluate all productions. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: Students must apply and be accepted for inclusion in this course/program. (2)

COMA 427 : Application Seminar: Advanced Co-curricular Production

Students produce multimedia projects for various student media outlets. Professional standards of production and ethics will be used to evaluate all productions. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: COMA 275. (2)

COMA 441 : Conflict and Peacebuilding

Through the use of case studies and significant scholarship, this course focuses on, analyzes, and develops approaches for conflict and peacebuilding in interpersonal, community, and global contexts. Prerequisite: COMA 101 or consent of instructor. (4)

COMA 442 : Negotiation

Introduces the techniques necessary to break an impasse and reach an agreement. Skills include how to create an atmosphere that fosters negotiation, how to conduct difficult conversation and how to mediate "win-win" situations. (2)

COMA 461 : Public Relations Planning and Management

Examination of public relations issues such as campaign planning, issue management, crisis communication, and global public relations. Integrates theoretical foundations and ethics. Focus on measurement and evaluation techniques. Prerequisite: COMA 361. (4)

COMA 487 : Topics in Communication

Special topics in communication is intended for unique opportunities to explore communication issues, methods, and viewpoints outside the normal curriculum. (1 to 4)

COMA 488 : Topics in Communication

Special topics in communication is intended for unique opportunities to explore communication issues, methods, and viewpoints outside the normal curriculum. (1 to 4)

COMA 489 : Topics in Communication

Special topics in communication is intended for unique opportunities to explore communication issues, methods, and viewpoints outside the normal curriculum. (1 to 4)

COMA 491 : Independent Studies

Investigations or research in area of special interest not covered by regular courses; open to qualified junior or senior students. A student should not begin registration for independent study until the specific area for investigation has been approved by a departmental sponsor. (1 to 4)

COMA 492 : Independent Studies

COMA 493 : Independent Studies

COMA 495 : Internship

The internship experience is designed to combine classroom theory with practical application through job-related experiences. (1 to 12)

COMA 499 : Capstone - SR

The capstone focuses on integrating student-learning objectives with student experience through development and presentation of portfolio or projects. Students will make a public presentation of their capstone. (2)

Communication (COMA) Graduate-Level Course Offered for M.B.A. Program

COMA 543: Conflict and Negotiation: This course examines the sources and development of conflict and develops negotiation as a tool for managing conflict situations. Emphasis is on understanding conflict interactions and reaching agreement through negotiation. (3)

Dance (DANC) Undergraduate-Level Courses

DANC 170 : Introduction to Dance - AR

This is a survey dance course that explores the history, roots, and cultural significance of dance as an art form. (4)

DANC 190 : FYEP190: Inquiry Seminar

DANC 222 : Jazz Dance Level I - PE

Cross-listed with PHED 222. (1)

DANC 240 : Dance Ensemble - PE

Cross-listed with PHED 240. (1)

DANC 287 : Special Topics in Dance

DANC 288 : Special Topics in Dance

DANC 289 : Special Topics in Dance

DANC 362 : Healing Arts of the Mind and Body - A, AR

Designed to introduce alternative therapies of mind-body processes. History, roots, practice, and cultural significances of several therapies and practices. Cross-listed with KINS 362. (4)

DANC 387 : Special Topics in Dance

DANC 388 : Special Topics in Dance

DANC 389 : Special Topics in Dance

DANC 462 : Dance Production

An advanced choreography course combining choreography, costume design, staging, and publicity techniques for producing a major dance concert. Cross-listed with KINS 462. (2)

DANC 487 : Special Topics in Dance

DANC 488 : Special Topics in Dance

DANC 489 : Special Topics in Dance

DANC 491 : Independent Study

To provide individual undergraduate students with advanced study not available in the regular curriculum. The title will be listed on the student term-based record as IS: followed by the specific title designated by the student. (1 to 4)

Sign Language (SIGN) Undergraduate-Level Courses

SIGN 101 : Sign Language - A

An introduction to the structure of American Sign Language and to the world of the hearing impaired. Basic signing skills and sign language vocabulary; finger spelling; the particular needs and problems of deaf people. (4)

SIGN 102 : Sign Language - A

SIGN 287 : Special Topics in Sign Language

SIGN 288 : Special Topics in Sign Language

SIGN 289 : Special Topics in Sign Language

SIGN 291 : Directed Study

SIGN 387 : Special Topics in Sign Language

SIGN 388 : Special Topics in Sign Language

SIGN 389 : Special Topics in Sign Language

SIGN 487 : Special Topics in Sign Language

SIGN 488 : Special Topics in Sign Language

SIGN 489 : Special Topics in Sign Language

Theatre (THEA) Undergraduate-Level Courses

THEA 160 : Introduction to Theatre - AR

This introductory course to theatre surveys the general nature of dramatic presentation; including elements of dramatic structure, types of drama, and the contributions of the actor, director, designer, technician, and audience. (4)

THEA 190 : FYEP190: Inquiry Seminar

THEA 215 : Voice and Movement I

This course introduces Fitzmaurice Voicework, which is a combination of modified yoga, Shiatsu, and Reichian bodywork combined with classical voice training techniques, to promote awareness of an actor's voice and body. Material is explored through partnered work, observation, and discussion. (4)

THEA 225 : Running Crew I

One semester hour credit may be earned each semester, but only 4 semester hours may be used to meet university requirements. Students put classroom theory to practical application by individually completing a project relating to an aspect of theatre. An instructor in the area of interest must approve the project and agree to provide guidance. Required of all Design/Tech Majors. (1)

THEA 250 : Acting I - Fundamentals AR

This is an introductory course to acting. Students perform several scenes and monologues and learn the basic skills of scene selection, memorization, imagination, character, presentation, and delivery. (4)

THEA 255 : Stage Production - AR

Basic theory and procedure of all backstage elements in the theatre, costumes, scenery, props, lights, makeup, and management. (4)

THEA 260 : Stagecraft

This course will be a combination of lecture and hands on experience in the execution of scenic designs for the stage. It will provide students with instruction on safety procedures, construction techniques and materials, theatrical rigging, welding, and organizational planning of theatrical production. (4)

THEA 265 : Fundamentals of Design

This course introduces the basic skills needed for scenic, lighting, and costume design. Students will learn to apply the elements of design and composition to exercises in research, hand drafting, renderings, and model building, for the express purpose of communication and collaboration. (4)

THEA 271 : China Through Film - AR, C

An exploration of the history and recent directions of Chinese cinema, the relationship between film and other Chinese media, film and the Chinese government, and the particular appeal of Chinese film on the international market. No prior study of Chinese required. Cross-listed with CHIN 271. (4)

THEA 275 : Scenic Painting

Students will learn the color theory and techniques used for painting scenery in theatrical applications. (2)

THEA 280 : Computer-Aided Drafting

Introduces the use of Vectorworks to create light plots or scenic draftings for theatrical applications. Prerequisite: THEA 265. (2)

THEA 287 : Special Topics in Theatre

THEA 288 : Special Topics in Theatre

THEA 289 : Special Topics in Theatre

THEA 290 : Stage Management

Introduces the study and practice of stage management with an emphasis on understanding the basic functions of the stage manager in the theatrical production phase. (2)

THEA 315 : Voice and Movement II

Builds on the basics of Voice and Movement I, as new methods of voice and movement are explored for creative inspiration and character development. Aspects of speech and text are an integral part of the course, as the student studies the International Phonetic Alphabet. Prerequisites: THEA 215. (4)

THEA 320 : Makeup I

This course will familiarize the student with the basic techniques in theatrical makeup application. (2)

THEA 321 : Makeup II

Builds on techniques introduced in Makeup I. Specialized work in planning and application of techniques, from straight makeup through aging, three-dimensional and special effects. Prerequisite: THEA 320. (2)

THEA 330 : Script Analysis

Students engage in intensive discussion of the major theories of drama and apply those theories to the analysis of selected plays and productions from a number of historical periods. (4)

THEA 346 : The Audition

Teaches audition techniques necessary to successful auditions for work in professional theatre productions. Audition material, techniques and research into challenges and opportunities in a professional career in the theatre and related fields are studied. (2)

THEA 350 : Acting II - Scene Study

The students gain practical experience in the art of the actor through performance of partnered scenes from modern and contemporary theatre. This course focuses on the importance of analysis and the examination of current acting theory. Prerequisite: THEA 250 or consent of instructor. (4)

THEA 355 : Lighting Design - AR

Examines the controllable properties of light and to apply them to the functions of theatrical lighting. Students will learn to express their ideas through research, critical analysis, presentation, and practical lab exercises. (4)

THEA 360 : Theatre History I

This course surveys the history of theatre from its origins through the end of the 18th century. Students will examine theatre as an institution that both reflects historical moments and participates in the forming of social values and ideas. (4)

THEA 365 : Theatre History II

This course surveys the history of theatre from the end of the 18th century through the present day. Students will examine theatre as an institution that both reflects historical moments and participates in the forming of social values and ideas. (4)

THEA 380 : Directing I

Introduces the process of making choices about scripts, script analysis, casting, focus of scenes, and the mood, rhythm, pace and main idea of productions. This is a participatory course that includes readings, attendance at plays, exercise work, and scene direction. Prerequisite: THEA 250. (4)

THEA 387 : Topics in Theatre

This course will be offered as needed, and it will allow the faculty and guest artists to explore areas of expertise and interest that are not normally taught as part of the curriculum. Concentrated study of a major theatrical period, movement, author, theme, genre, performance style, culture or technology (2 to 4)

THEA 388 : Special Topics in Theatre

THEA 389 : Special Topics in Theatre

THEA 390 : Visual History: Period Costume and Décor

Surveys the architecture, interiors, clothing, culture, and aesthetic of the western world from the Greek Era to the Present. Students will be able to identify period through exposure to art, historical documents, and popular perspectives. (4)

THEA 425 : Theatre Practicum

One semester hour may be earned each semester, but only four semester hours may be used to meet university requirements. Students put classroom theory to practical application by individually completing a project relating to an aspect of theatre. An instructor in the area of interest must approve the project and agree to provide guidance. Required of all Design/Tech Majors. (1)

THEA 450 : Acting III - Shakespeare

This is an advanced course in acting designed to focus on language, interpretation, and enhancing audience appreciation and understanding. Advanced techniques in text analysis, focusing on scansion, the study of Shakespeare's folio, and in-depth scene study and performance. Prerequisites: THEA 220 and THEA 250, or consent of instructor. (4)

THEA 453 : Costume Design - AR

Development of artistic and technical abilities in the field of costume design incorporating history, patterns, and renderings. (4)

THEA 455 : Scenic Design - AR

Studies the process used by scenic designers to create a physical environment for the stage. Students will learn to analyze a theatrical text, formulate and express an approach through research, and execute their ideas through models and simple drafting. Prerequisite: THEA 265. (4)

THEA 480 : Directing II

Builds on techniques learned in Directing I to develop stage productions. This includes interpreting text, analyzing premise, developing visual concepts, translating words and concepts into actions, and the process of communication between actors and designers. The course culminates in the direction of a one-act play. Prerequisite: THEA 370. (4)

THEA 487 : Special Topics in Theatre

THEA 488 : Special Topics in Theatre

THEA 489 : Special Topics in Theatre

THEA 491 : Independent Studies

Investigations or research in area of special interest not covered by regular courses; open to qualified junior or senior students. Requires pre-registration approved by a departmental sponsor. (1 to 4)

THEA 496 : Advanced Scenographic Design

Each student will assume the role of lighting, scenic, or costume designer and collaboratively work to develop a design concept for a theatrical work. The students will complete a design process with advanced renderings, models, drafting, paperwork, and documentation. Prerequisites: THEA 265, THEA 453, and either THEA 355 or 455. (4)

THEA 499 : Capstone - SR

This will serve as the culminating project for the theatre major. With approval and guidance from the theatre faculty, the student will develop and execute a substantial individual project that will reflect both the academic and practical knowledge gained through the study of the art of theatre. (2)