Drama

The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Drama at the University of Alberta offers students a comprehensive and immersive experience in the performing arts, emphasizing both practical skills and critical understanding of theatrical traditions. This program is designed for individuals passionate about pursuing a career in acting, directing, dramaturgy, stage management, or other related fields within the world of theatre and performance. Throughout their studies, students gain hands-on experience through rigorous coursework, practical workshops, and engaging performances, fostering their artistic development and personal growth.

The curriculum combines foundational courses in theatre history, theory, and research with intensive training in acting techniques, voice, movement, and improvisation. Students have opportunities to participate in departmental productions, student-led performances, and internships, allowing them to apply their skills in real-world settings. The program also encourages collaboration across disciplines, supporting students to work as part of creative teams and develop leadership qualities essential for the arts industry.

Faculty members are experienced professionals and scholars dedicated to mentoring students and nurturing their creative talents. The program emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating elements of theatre design, stage management, and playwriting to provide a well-rounded education. Students are encouraged to explore innovative approaches to theatre-making, including contemporary and experimental practices, ensuring they are prepared for diverse careers in the arts.

Graduates of the BFA in Drama at the University of Alberta are well-equipped to enter the entertainment industry, pursue further specializations, or continue their education at graduate levels. The program fosters artistic excellence, critical thinking, and a lifelong commitment to the performing arts, making it an ideal choice for aspiring theatre artists committed to making a meaningful contribution to the world of performance.

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Drama at the University of Alberta offers students a comprehensive and immersive education in the theatrical arts, aiming to develop versatile performers, directors, playwrights, and production specialists. This program emphasizes both practical skills and theoretical knowledge, providing students with opportunities to engage in performances, workshops, and creative collaborations across a wide spectrum of theatrical genres and styles. Throughout the program, students participate in rigorous training in acting, voice, movement, and stagecraft, fostering their ability to interpret and embody diverse roles with authenticity and confidence. Additionally, the curriculum incorporates courses in dramaturgy, playwriting, theatre history, and critical analysis, equipping students with a deep understanding of the socio-cultural contexts and historical development of drama. The program is designed to encourage innovative thinking and individual artistic voice, supported by mentorship from experienced faculty members who are active professionals in the field. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including theatres, studios, and technical laboratories, enabling hands-on experience in production design, lighting, sound, and costume craft. Collaboration is a key aspect of the program, with opportunities for students to work on mainstage productions, student-run projects, and community outreach initiatives, fostering teamwork and leadership skills. The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Drama prepares graduates for careers in theatre performance, directing, production management, arts administration, and further graduate study. The program’s rigorous training, combined with its emphasis on creativity, critical thinking, and professional development, aims to produce well-rounded theatre practitioners ready to contribute meaningfully to the arts community both locally and globally.

Requires a minimum of 30 units of approved coursework, including core courses, electives, and a thesis or project component. The program emphasizes foundational courses in theatre studies, dramatic literature, and performance techniques. Students must complete designated introductory courses such as THEA 101, THEA 102, and THEA 103, which cover basic principles of theatre and performance arts. Advanced courses include specialized topics such as contemporary theatre, acting, directing, stage design, and playwriting, with mandatory courses like THEA 300-level seminars and workshops. Elective options allow students to explore areas such as dramaturgy, theatre history, performance technology, and arts management. To ensure comprehensive experiential learning, students are required to participate in practical productions, internships, or practica approved by the department. The program also mandates the successful completion of a capstone project or thesis, demonstrating critical analysis and practical application of theatrical skills and knowledge. Language proficiency requirements, if applicable, must be fulfilled through designated coursework. The curriculum is designed to provide students with a broad understanding of theatrical arts, develop creative and analytical skills, and prepare graduates for careers in performance, production, arts administration, or further academic study. Continuous assessment includes essays, presentations, practical performances, and examinations. Students are advised to consult academic advisors periodically to ensure progress towards degree completion and to select appropriate electives aligned with their career goals. The program encourages participation in departmental events, seminars, and conferences to enhance professional development. Overall, the program aims to produce well-rounded theatre practitioners equipped with theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and industry connections necessary for success in the evolving field of dramatic arts.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The University of Alberta offers a comprehensive range of financial aid options for students enrolled in its Drama programs. Incoming students are encouraged to explore various sources of funding, including government-sponsored scholarships, grants, and loans, as well as university-specific awards and bursaries. The provincial government of Alberta provides several financial assistance programs, such as Alberta Opportunity Bursaries and Alberta Centennial Scholarships, which are available to eligible students based on academic achievement and financial need. Additionally, the federal government offers loans and scholarships through programs like Canada Student Grants and the Canada Student Loans Program, supporting students from diverse backgrounds.

The University of Alberta itself administers numerous internal award opportunities for Drama students, recognizing academic excellence, leadership qualities, and extracurricular involvement. These include entrance scholarships, which can significantly reduce tuition costs for incoming undergraduate students, as well as merit-based awards that reward exceptional achievement during the course of study. Graduate students pursuing advanced degrees in Drama may be eligible for research assistantships, teaching assistantships, or fellowships, which provide stipends to support their academic work and living expenses.

Students are also encouraged to seek external funding sources, such as private scholarships offered by arts foundations, community organizations, and industry partners related to the performing arts sector. These external funding options vary from year to year and require separate application processes. The university's Financial Aid and Awards Office provides detailed guidance and support for students applying for these programs, including application tips and deadlines.

For international students enrolled in Drama programs, additional bursaries and scholarships are available, often provided through university partnership agreements, government initiatives, or external organizations. These awards aim to promote diversity and accessibility within the university's arts community.

In addition to scholarships and awards, students can consider part-time employment opportunities offered on campus, including roles related to theatre production, costume design, and arts administration, which provide practical experience and supplementary income. The university's Career Centre offers resources and workshops to assist students in finding suitable work placements.

Overall, the University of Alberta is committed to supporting Drama students financially throughout their academic journey. Prospective and current students are advised to regularly consult the university’s official financial aid website and contact the Financial Aid and Awards Office for personalized guidance and up-to-date information on available funding options. With a proactive approach to seeking financial support, students in Drama programs can effectively manage the costs associated with their studies and focus on developing their artistic talents and academic achievements.

The Bachelor of Arts in Drama at the University of Alberta offers students a comprehensive education in the theatrical arts, encompassing acting, directing, stage production, and theatre studies. The program emphasizes both practical performance skills and a critical understanding of dramatic literature and theatre history. Students have the opportunity to participate in a variety of productions throughout their studies, gaining hands-on experience in acting, directing, design, and technical theatre. The curriculum combines foundational courses in theatre history, theory, and criticism with advanced training in performance and production techniques.

In addition to classroom learning, students can engage with the university's vibrant theatre community through internships, workshops, and collaborations with local theatres. The program is designed to foster creativity, critical thinking, and effective communication, preparing graduates for careers in theatre, film, television, and related fields. Students also have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including auditorium spaces, rehearsal halls, and technical labs, facilitating a professional learning environment.

The University of Alberta’s drama program is renowned for its distinguished faculty, many of whom are active professionals in the entertainment industry. The program encourages students to develop their individual artistic voices while understanding the significance of theatrical traditions and cultural contexts. Graduates of the program often proceed to work as performers, directors, playwrights, or theatre educators, and some continue their education in graduate programs in theatre arts.

The duration of the Bachelor of Arts in Drama typically spans four years, with opportunities for minors or specializations in areas such as Dramatic Literature or Theatre Production. The university also offers potential cooperative education options, enabling students to gain work experience during their studies. Admission requirements include high school graduation with a strong emphasis on arts and humanities courses, as well as audition processes for performance-based tracks.

Overall, the Drama program at the University of Alberta aims to develop well-rounded theatre artists who are equipped with both technical proficiency and a deep understanding of theatrical concepts, fostering the next generation of innovative theatre practitioners.