Drama (General Major)

The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Drama at the University of Manitoba offers students an intensive and comprehensive education in the performing arts, focusing on both the theoretical and practical aspects of theatre and performance. This program is designed to cultivate creative, skilled, and versatile theatre artists prepared to contribute to a diverse range of professional contexts, including acting, directing, dramaturgy, stage management, and theatrical production. Students will engage in rigorous coursework that covers performance techniques, voice and speech, movement, improvisation, script analysis, and theatre history, complemented by hands-on practicum experiences and opportunities for collaborative works. The curriculum emphasizes the development of critical thinking, artistic expression, and technical skills, fostering students’ ability to adapt to various theatrical environments and roles. Additionally, the program encourages exploration of contemporary issues through performance and promotes an understanding of cultural and historical contexts in theatre. Access to state-of-the-art facilities, including theatre spaces, rehearsal rooms, and technical labs, provides students with a professional environment for their training and practice. The faculty comprises experienced theatre practitioners and scholars committed to mentoring and guiding students toward achieving their artistic and academic goals. Graduates of the Drama program at the University of Manitoba are well-prepared for careers in theatre, television, film, community arts, and further graduate studies. The program also promotes active engagement with the local arts community and opportunities for performance outside the classroom, enriching students’ practical experience and professional networks. Whether students aim to pursue a career on stage or behind the scenes, the Drama program offers a supportive and dynamic environment to nurture artistic talent, deepen theatrical understanding, and develop the skills necessary for success in the competitive performing arts industry.

The Drama (General Major) program at the University of Manitoba offers students a comprehensive and dynamic education in the performing arts, focused on developing their skills in acting, theatre production, and dramatic literature. Designed for students with a passion for theatre, this program emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical experience, allowing students to explore various aspects of drama through coursework, workshops, and performances. Throughout the program, students engage with the history and criticism of theatre, gain proficiency in voice and movement, and participate in hands-on productions that foster collaborative creativity. The curriculum covers essential topics such as script analysis, stagecraft, directing, and dramaturgy, enabling students to develop a well-rounded understanding of the theatrical arts. The program also encourages students to cultivate their individual artistic voices while exploring diverse theatrical traditions and contemporary practices. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and opportunities to collaborate with faculty and peers on multiple productions, students are prepared for careers in theatre performance, production, directing, writing, and arts administration. The Drama (General Major) underscores the importance of critical thinking, effective communication, and artistic innovation, equipping graduates with versatile skills applicable beyond the stage. Whether students aim to pursue further studies or enter the professional arts sector, this program provides a solid foundation in all aspects of drama and theatre arts, inspiring personal growth and fostering a lifelong passion for the performing arts.

Program requirements for the Bachelor of Arts in Drama (General Major) at the University of Manitoba include completing a minimum of 60 credit hours, with key courses in acting, theatre history, dramatic literature, and production. Students must fulfill core courses such as THEA 1020 (Introduction to Theatre), THEA 2020 (Acting I), THEA 3050 (Theatre History), and THEA 3060 (Dramatic Literature). In addition to foundational courses, students are encouraged to select electives within the theatre department or related disciplines, including stage management, technical theatre, and script analysis, to customize their learning experience. To graduate, students must maintain a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.0, with no grade below D in major courses. Practical production experience is often integrated into the curriculum through assigned projects and collaborations. The program emphasizes developing both theoretical understanding and practical skills critical to careers in theatre, drama education, or related fields. Students may also have opportunities to participate in departmental productions, internships, or workshops that enhance their hands-on experience. The program duration typically spans four years of full-time study, with options for part-time enrolment. Transfer credits from other post-secondary institutions may be considered on a case-by-case basis, allowing for some flexibility in fulfilling certain requirements. Overall, the program aims to provide a comprehensive education in dramatic arts, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and performance skills necessary for diverse careers in theatre and related industries.

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 Manitoba offers a variety of financing options to support students enrolled in the Drama (General Major) program. Prospective and current students can explore several avenues to fund their education, including scholarships, bursaries, and awards specifically available to students studying theatre arts and related fields. Scholarships at the University of Manitoba are awarded based on academic achievement, artistic excellence, financial need, and other criteria, which may include community involvement or leadership qualities. The university provides entrance scholarships for incoming students, as well as in-course awards for continued excellence throughout the duration of the program. Bursaries are also available to students demonstrating financial need, helping to reduce the financial burden associated with pursuing a theatre degree.

Additionally, students enrolled in the Drama program can benefit from national and provincial financial aid programs, such as student loans and grants, which are designed to assist students from diverse backgrounds. The Manitoba Student Aid Program offers financial assistance, including grants, loans, and work-study opportunities, to eligible residents of Manitoba. Students are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and other relevant forms to access federal and provincial funding.

Many students in the Drama program also seek part-time employment during their studies, balancing work with their academic and artistic commitments. The university’s Career Services provides resources and job placement assistance to help students find suitable employment opportunities in arts administration, theatre production, teaching, and related fields. Furthermore, some students may have access to private scholarships sponsored by arts organizations, local foundations, or community groups interested in supporting performing arts education.

The university also promotes financial literacy and planning, offering workshops and counseling services to help students manage their educational costs effectively. International students studying Drama at the University of Manitoba should explore additional funding options and scholarships specific to international students, which may be available through the university or external organizations. Overall, the university aims to ensure that students in the Drama (General Major) program have access to the necessary financial resources to complete their education and pursue successful careers in the field of theatre.

The Bachelor of Arts in Drama (General Major) at the University of Manitoba offers students a comprehensive education in the field of theatre, emphasizing both practical skills and theoretical understanding. The program is designed to provide a well-rounded foundation for students interested in various aspects of drama, including performance, directing, playwriting, and theatre production. Students engage in coursework that covers theatre history, dramatic literature, acting techniques, stagecraft, and production management. The curriculum is structured to foster creativity, critical thinking, and collaborative skills essential for a successful career in the arts.

The program typically includes opportunities for students to participate in university theatre productions, gaining hands-on experience in acting, directing, set design, lighting, and sound. Faculty members are experienced professionals and researchers in the field of drama and theatre, offering mentorship and guidance throughout the students' academic journey. The university's facilities include theatres, rehearsal spaces, and technical labs that support practical training.

Students are encouraged to develop a diverse skill set that includes both the artistic and technical aspects of theatre. The program often offers electives allowing students to explore related fields such as film, media arts, and literary studies. Graduates of the Drama (General Major) are prepared for a variety of careers in the arts, including theatre performance, education, arts administration, playwriting, and production management.

The university also promotes opportunities for internships and community engagement, providing students with exposure to professional environments and emerging theatre trends. Upon completion of the program, students receive a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in Drama, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to pursue further education or enter the workforce in related fields. The program aims to cultivate expressive, analytical, and practical abilities that are vital for a dynamic and evolving arts industry.