B.F.A. Program Creates Multidimensional Theatre Makers
The B.F.A. in theatre arts is a rigorous 125-credit program that prepares artists for the theatre of tomorrow. This innovative program supplies students with the skills to create, develop and produce art with an emphasis on developing new work, and collaborating with their peers in directing, playwriting and devising.
In addition to the core curriculum, students choose one of three concentrations: directing, playwriting or self-directed studies.
After two years of study in theatre-making techniques that include acting, stage movement, voice and speech, improvisation, devising, directing and playwriting, students may choose from various areas of emphasis within the Conservatory of Performing Arts to personalize their undergraduate training. Options for completing the degree include sequences in advanced directing, advanced playwriting, theatrical design, technical production, film, screenwriting and stage-management.
Exceptional academic counseling also allows interested students to pursue a double major, minor or one semester of study abroad. Students may — with summer coursework — complete the degree in three years.
"By participating in the B.F.A. theatre arts program, students have the opportunity to write, direct, devise, perform and grow into the multi-hyphenate theatre maker that is necessary in today's industry."
Mady Thetard '26
Hands-On Experience Inside and Outside of the Classroom
Students learn from faculty who have trained and worked on stages around the world. Acclaimed guest artists, including playwrights, directors, and casting directors regularly come to campus to conduct classes and workshops.
In collaboration with Bridges Theatre Company, our student-run ensemble, theatre arts majors can learn about all aspects of creating and presenting a four-show season. In addition, those who study advanced directing serve as the directors of our semiannual One Act Festivals.
Michael Campayno, artist in residence and interim theatre chair
Campayno is a seasoned performer, educator and artistic leader who has shaped the future of theater while maintaining a prominent career in New York City. As a Broadway veteran, he originated the role of Rob Camilletti in The Cher Show and led as Fiyero in the smash-hit musical Wicked.
April Daras, associate professor and director of theatre arts
"Keep an open mind to the possibilities you have for making art and impacting the world. I'm committed to helping you build your skills, to recognizing and trusting your creative impulses and to developing ways of working that are sustainable, collaborative and constructive."
"I strive to create an atmosphere in which the classroom can become a place of discovery and invention, and not a place of imitation and mimickry. I want to encourage artists to find their way, with guidance, but without limitations and preconceptions."
Sheila McKenna, professor and coordinator of Bridges Theatre Co.
"I try to balance the seriousness with which I take our work — and the reason that I'm there to support the student — with a sense of humor and the energy of play when we are making theatre."
"Theatre arts students have opportunities to learn about artistic leadership, producing, marketing and publicity and all aspects of creating a four show season. Additionally, students who study advanced directing are the leaders of our One Act Festival."
"My teaching approach is physical, collaborative and ensemble-oriented. Where the process or journey of the task is to discover a truthful physical life of possibilities related to performance."
Get Career-Ready with: Madison Downing '24, Artistic Director of Ghostlight Theatre Company and Made for the Stage Youth Theatre Workshop
"From the moment I learned about the many different jobs in theatre, I immediately knew I couldn’t just do one thing. The theatre arts program encourages exactly that. This program has molded me into a well-rounded performer, director, playwright, producer and so much more."
Theatre Alumni Spotlight: Meet E. Clayton Cornelious, Broadway Actor, Investor and Producer
Broadway actor E. Clayton Cornelious played the role of Paul Williams in the first National Tour of Ain't Too Proud - The Life and Times of The Temptations. Cornelious is also a co-producer of the Broadway hit new musical New York, New York.
B.F.A. Theatre Arts Major Visits National Constitution Center and Sees Hamilton on Broadway as Part of “If You Were in the Room” Experience with PA Humanities
"As a Point Park student you create your own path. Especially as a theatre arts student, you get to direct your own education. The resources available to us, both at school and in the Pittsburgh area, are plentiful."
Point Park University Experience Propels Alumnus Tony Moux to Develop Successful Business in Headshot Photography
"Since graduating, I have been published nationally in editorial magazines, photographed and creatively directed campaigns for brands like Dermalogica, PPG Paints and People Magazine. I've had so many opportunities that I was able to build from my college experience."
Theatre Arts Major Raecine Singletary is Assistant Directing at Pittsburgh Public Theater
"I give Point Park a lot of credit for preparing and helping me find my career path. Point Park has taught me to be a hardworking and valuable artist who is confident in my work."
Directing/Patron Services Internship with Shakespeare & Company Provides Hands-On Experience for Theatre Arts Major
"Studying directing at Point Park has had a huge influence on me, and I was lucky to be able to test myself in a professional setting. I feel totally prepared as both a director and performer because of my training at Point Park."
