Theatre Emphasis

The Theatre Emphasis program at California State University offers students a comprehensive and dynamic education in the art of theater, designed to develop both their creative and technical skills. This program provides a solid foundation in theatrical principles, history, and performance techniques, preparing students for a variety of careers within the performing arts industry. Students engaging in this emphasis have the opportunity to participate in main stage productions, collaborate with faculty on innovative projects, and hone their craft through rigorous coursework and practical experience. The curriculum covers essential areas such as acting, stage design, directing, playwriting, and theater history, ensuring graduates possess a well-rounded understanding of the theatrical arts. Emphasis is placed on fostering critical thinking, creative expression, and effective communication—skills that are vital for success on stage and behind the scenes. The program encourages students to explore diverse theatrical styles and cultures, promoting a global perspective on performance arts. Students also have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including fully equipped performance venues, scene shops, and laboratories dedicated to research and experimentation. Faculty members are experienced professionals and scholars committed to mentoring students and guiding their artistic development. Upon completing the Theatre Emphasis, graduates are prepared to pursue careers as performers, directors, playwrights, designers, technicians, or continue their education at advanced levels in theater arts. The program’s broad and intensive approach ensures that students not only learn the theoretical aspects of theater but also gain substantial hands-on experience, making them competitive in the dynamic entertainment industry. Engaging with this program offers students an enriching artistic journey that nurtures their passion, sharpens their skills, and prepares them for impactful careers in the performing arts world.

Performing Arts elective courses:

Note: Some courses listed as electives are required in one of the emphases but remain electives for the other two emphases.)
PA 101 Introduction to the Performing Arts 3
PA 202 Integrating Dance, Music and Theatre 3
PA 335 Business and the Performing Arts 3
PA 350 Audience and Performance Studies 3
PA 360 Musical Theatre 3
PA 383 Scenic Design 3
PA 384 Costume Design 3
PA 391 Production 3 (Repeatable for up to 12 units) 
PA 436 Physics of Performing Arts 3
PA 490 Special Topics 3 (Repeatable for up to 6 units)
PA 492 Internship in Performing Arts 1-3 (Repeatable for up to 6 units)
PA 494 Independent Study 1-3 (Repeatable for up to 6 units)
PADA 151 Conditioning for Dancers 2
PADA 253 Jazz Dance I 2
PADA 254 Modern Dance I 2
PADA 255 Dance Composition and Improvisation 3
PADA 332 Dance in History 3
PADA 353 Jazz Dance II 3
PADA 354 Modern Dance II 3
PADA 455 Advanced Technique of Contemporary Dance Forms 3
PADA 458 Dance Ensemble 3
PAMU 100 Music Appreciation 3 
PAMU 109 Private Lessons 1
PAMU 161 Music Fundamentals 3
PAMU 200 History of Rock 3
PAMU 202 Group Guitar Lessons 2
PAMU 203 Group Voice Lessons 2
PAMU 231 The Beatles: Music, Fashion and Culture 3 
PAMU 243 Teaching Music to Children 3 
PAMU 261 Music Theory 3 
PAMU 307 University Chorus 1 
PAMU 308 University Orchestra 1
PAMU 309 Private Lessons 1 
PAMU 330 Jazz in America 3 
PAMU 332 World Music 3
PAMU 333 The Varieties of Musical Experience 3 
PAMU 335 The Physics of Music 3 
PAMU 336 Art and Music: Dissonance, Diversity and Continuity 3 
PAMU 337 Music in History 3
PAMU 432 Arts of the Harlem Renaissance 3 
PAMU 435 The Music Museum 3 
PATH 280 Acting I 3
PATH 281 Play Analysis 3
PATH 332 Teaching Dramatic Literature 3 
PATH 333 Multicultural Drama in Performance/ Production 3 
PATH 334 Spanish Language Drama and Theatre 3
PATH 338 Theatre in History 3
PATH 341 Modern American Drama and Theatre 3
PATH 342 Modern British and European Drama and Theatre 3 
PATH 343 Teaching Drama to Children 3
PATH 344 World Drama and Theatre 3 
PATH 380 Acting II 3
PATH 382 Directing 3
PATH 410 Shakespeare’s Plays 3
PATH 412 Drama of Ancient Greece 3
PATH 444 Original Practice in Renaissance Drama 3
PATH 463 Writing for the Stage and Screen 3

Theatre Emphasis - 27 units
PATH 280 Acting I 3
PATH 281 Play Analysis 3
PATH 338 Theatre in History 3
PATH 380 Acting II 3
PATH 382 Directing 3

Select two of the following:
PATH 333 Multicultural Drama and Theatre 3
PATH 341 Modern American Drama and Theatre 3
PATH 342 Modern British and European 
Drama and Theatre 3
PATH 344 World Drama and Theatre 3
and
Select Performing Arts Electives - 6 units.

International Freshmen Checklist  

International Transfer Checklist 

Financial Affidavit for Undergraduate applicants 

Submit all application documents to the Center for International Affairs. 

*Transfer Students: We are currently accepting applications from all community colleges in the U.S.  Please make sure that you have at least 60 units and have completed “Oral communication”, “Written communication”, “Critical thinking” and “College level mathematics/quantitative reasoning” with “C” or better.  Please note that the Nursing programs are closed for international students.  

English Score

Submit the results of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or other acceptable test (see below for list of tests).  Scores must be sent directly to CSUCI from testing agency.

Acceptable English Placement Exams

TOEFL – Test of English as a Foreign Language with a minimum Paper-Based score of 500, a minimum Computer Based score of 173 or a minimum Internet Based score of 61.

IELTS – International English Language Test System with an overall band score of 6.0.

*Transfer students: It’s not necessary to submit a TOEFL or IELTS score if you have completed the required Freshman Composition Class at your community college.

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 Theatre Emphasis program at California State University offers a comprehensive approach to funding and financial aid resources tailored to support students pursuing this field of study. Students enrolled in the program have access to a variety of financial assistance options, including federal and state grants, scholarships, work-study opportunities, and university-specific aid programs. Federal grants such as the Pell Grant are available to eligible undergraduate students based on financial need, helping reduce the cost burden associated with theatre studies. Additionally, California residents may qualify for state-funded awards like the Cal Grants, which provide significant financial support for undergraduate education.

The university also offers numerous scholarships specifically designated for students interested in theatre arts, with criteria that include academic achievement, artistic talent, and potential contribution to the campus theatre community. Students are encouraged to apply early and maintain a strong academic record to maximize their scholarship opportunities. Work-study programs are available to eligible students, allowing them to gain practical experience in theatre-related roles while earning financial support to assist with tuition and living expenses.

Furthermore, the university provides information and guidance on external funding sources, including privately funded scholarships and fellowships from arts organizations, foundations, and cultural institutions. Many students look into internships and assistantship positions within university theatre productions, which not only provide stipends but also valuable professional experience. The cost of attendance varies depending on whether a student lives on or off campus, with estimates available on the university’s financial planning resources.

The university’s financial aid office offers counseling and workshops to help students navigate the application process, understand their financial options, and develop personal budgets. There are also payment plans available that allow students to spread out tuition payments over the semester or academic year. For students pursuing advanced study or special projects within the theatre emphasis, departmental funding and grants may be accessible, contingent upon application and approval.

Overall, the Theatre Emphasis program at California State University is committed to providing ample financial support opportunities to ensure that students from diverse backgrounds can access quality education in theatre arts. Prospective and current students are encouraged to regularly consult the university’s financial aid website and connect with advisors to explore all available resources and create a feasible financial plan for their academic journey.

The Theatre Emphasis program at California State University is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of theatrical arts, including acting, stagecraft, script development, and production techniques. This program aims to prepare students for diverse careers in theatre, whether on stage, behind the scenes, or in related fields such as arts administration or education. Students enrolled in the Theatre Emphasis engage in rigorous coursework that covers a wide range of topics, such as dramatic literature, theatre history, voice and movement, improvisation, and modern and classical theatre practices. The curriculum often includes practical experience through productions, internships, and collaborative projects, allowing students to hone their skills in a real-world setting. Additionally, the program emphasizes critical thinking and analytical skills necessary to interpret and contribute to theatrical works meaningfully. Faculty members are experienced professionals in the theatrical field, providing mentorship and industry insights to students. The program also fosters a vibrant campus community, offering numerous opportunities for participation in performances, technical theatre, and theatre festivals. Graduates of the Theatre Emphasis program at California State University are equipped to pursue graduate studies or embark on careers in performing arts, production management, directing, stage design, teaching, or arts administration, among others. The program's combination of academic rigor, practical experience, and industry engagement makes it a valuable pathway for students passionate about theatre and the performing arts.