Dramatic Art

The Bachelor of Arts in Dramatic Art at Excelsior College offers students an immersive and comprehensive education in the performing arts, emphasizing both practical skills and theoretical knowledge. This program is designed for individuals passionate about theatre, performance, and the theatrical arts, aiming to prepare graduates for a wide range of careers in acting, production, directing, writing, and arts administration. Students enrolled in this program will explore the history and evolution of dramatic arts, engage in rigorous training in acting techniques, stagecraft, voice, and movement, and develop critical understanding of theatrical literature and production processes. The curriculum combines foundational courses in liberal arts with specialized classes that focus on scene study, improvisation, script analysis, and stage management. Through a combination of coursework, practical exercises, and performance projects, students gain hands-on experience vital for success in the competitive field of theatre. Additionally, the program encourages the development of collaborative skills, creativity, and cultural awareness, fostering well-rounded artists capable of contributing meaningfully to the theatrical community. Excelsior College's flexible online learning environment allows students to study at their own pace while gaining access to expert faculty and industry resources. Graduates of this program will be well-equipped to pursue immediate entry into theatre productions, graduate studies in dramatic arts, or careers in related creative industries. Whether aiming to perform on stage, assist behind the scenes, or deepen an understanding of dramatic literature and history, students will find the Bachelor of Arts in Dramatic Art to be a transformative educational experience.

The Bachelor of Arts in Dramatic Art at Excelsior College offers students a comprehensive and immersive education in the performing arts, emphasizing both the theoretical foundations and practical skills necessary for a successful career in theater, acting, and performance. The program is designed to develop students' artistic talents, critical thinking, and understanding of dramatic literature, history, and production techniques. Throughout the course of study, students explore various aspects of drama, including stage movement, voice modulation, improvisation, script analysis, and stagecraft, providing a well-rounded foundation in the art of performance.

Students undertake coursework in dramatic literature from different periods and cultures, examining the historical and social contexts that shape theatrical works. They also participate in practical acting classes, where they hone their craft through scene work, monologues, and ensemble performances. The program emphasizes hands-on experience, encouraging students to participate in university theater productions and internships with professional theater companies whenever possible. This experiential learning ensures that graduates are prepared for the demands of the performing arts industry.

In addition to performance skills, the program covers aspects of directing, dramaturgy, and production management, giving students a broader understanding of all facets of theatre production. As part of their academic journey, students also learn about stage design, lighting, costume design, and technical theatre, equipping them with the knowledge to collaborate effectively within a production team. The program fosters creativity, resilience, and adaptability, critical qualities for thriving in dynamic artistic environments.

With a curriculum that balances tradition and innovation, the Dramatic Art degree at Excelsior College prepares students for diverse careers in theatre, film, television, and related fields. Graduates are equipped with strong communication and presentation skills, artistic insight, and the confidence needed to pursue further study or enter the workforce as actors, directors, playwrights, or production specialists. The program's flexible structure allows students to tailor their education to specific interests within the performing arts, ensuring a personalized and rewarding academic experience.

The Bachelor of Arts in Dramatic Art at Excelsior College requires students to complete a comprehensive curriculum designed to develop both theoretical understanding and practical skills in theatre and performance arts. The program consists of a core set of foundational courses in acting, theatre history, script analysis, and stage production, which are complemented by electives allowing students to specialize in areas such as directing, dramaturgy, costume design, or technical theatre. Students are expected to engage in hands-on projects, including performances and studio productions, to apply their learning in real-world contexts. Additionally, the program emphasizes the development of critical thinking, communication, and collaborative skills essential for success in the arts industry. The curriculum integrates coursework in voice and speech, movement, improvisation, and scene study, fostering versatile performers capable of adapting to diverse roles and styles. Students must also complete a capstone project or thesis that demonstrates their mastery of a specific aspect of dramatic art, often involving a performance, research paper, or production proposal. The program encourages participation in internships and community theatre to gain industry experience and build professional connections. Assessment methods include performances, written examinations, project evaluations, and peer critiques. To graduate, students must complete a minimum number of credit hours, including general education requirements, major coursework, and electives, totaling approximately 120 semester credits. The program aims to prepare graduates for careers in theatre performance, direction, production management, arts administration, or further graduate study in related fields.

The tuition and financing options for the Dramatic Art program at Excelsior College are designed to make higher education accessible and affordable for a diverse range of students. Tuition fees for this program are structured to align with the college’s commitment to providing quality education at competitive rates. Exact tuition costs can vary depending on the student's residency status, credit hours enrolled, and whether the student is taking the program fully online or on-campus. Typically, Excelsior College offers a per-credit-hour fee system, which allows students to pay for only the credits they complete, providing flexibility and cost efficiency.

In addition to tuition fees, students may incur costs for textbooks, supplies, and other educational materials. Excelsior College also provides a variety of financial aid options to assist students in financing their studies. These include federal and state grants, such as the Federal Pell Grant and State Grants, which do not need to be repaid and can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses. The college also participates in federal student loan programs, including Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans, offering low-interest borrowing options with flexible repayment plans.

Furthermore, Excelsior College offers scholarship opportunities based on merit, need, or specific criteria related to the program or student background. Students are encouraged to apply early to be considered for these scholarships, which can substantially offset tuition costs. Payment plans are also available, allowing students to spread out payments over the course of the semester or year, making budgeting easier.

For working adults and non-traditional students, Excelsior College’s online delivery format enables significant savings by reducing commuting and relocation costs. Moreover, the college’s prior learning assessment options enable students to earn credit for previous professional experience, training, or prior coursework, which can shorten the time required to complete the program and reduce total educational expenses.

Overall, the college strives to provide transparent and flexible financing options to help students fund their education without undue financial burden, supporting their academic and professional goals in the field of dramatic arts.

The Dramatic Art program at Excelsior College is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in the various aspects of theater and performance arts. The curriculum typically covers fundamental topics such as acting techniques, scene study, voice and speech, movement, and improvisation, aiming to develop students' creative and interpretive skills. Students are encouraged to engage in practical performance opportunities, including plays and productions, to apply their learned skills in real-world settings.

In addition to acting, the program often includes coursework in theater history, script analysis, and scripting, giving students a solid understanding of theatrical traditions and texts. The program may also emphasize the development of critical thinking, collaboration, and communication skills essential for successful careers in the performing arts. Students can expect to learn from experienced faculty members who bring industry expertise into their teaching, guiding students through the technical and artistic aspects of theatrical performance.

While specific details about the program's duration, degree level (such as associate or bachelor's), or specializations are not available, similar programs at Excelsior College typically offer flexible learning options suited for working adults and non-traditional students. These programs emphasize both theoretical knowledge and practical application, aligning with the college’s reputation for flexible online education.

Graduates of the program are prepared for a variety of careers in theater, film, television, and related fields, including acting, directing, stage management, and arts administration. Some students may choose to continue their education with advanced degrees or specialized training in theatrical arts or related disciplines. The program's focus on both artistic development and professional readiness aims to equip students with the skills necessary to succeed in competitive entertainment industries or to pursue further academic opportunities.