The bachelor of arts (BA) major in Theater Arts is designed for School of Arts and Sciences students who are seeking a solid overview in theater as part of a well-rounded liberal arts education. It allows students to investigate the various disciplines in theater. The BA Theater Arts major consists of a balanced course of study in scholarship and art, stressing a theoretical approach. Upon completion of the degree, students are prepared for internships, employment in the arts community, graduate study, and graduate or studio training. Theater majors in the BA program are required to take a minimum of 47 credits.
First Semester Planning
We recommend that students register for approximately 15 credits each semester and no more than 16 credits in their first semester. Your schedule should be well-balanced and include coursework from a variety of subjects. A diverse schedule will help you begin your studies in potential majors and minors; explore a breadth of new knowledge across departments at Rutgers to meet SAS Core Curriculum learning goals; and survey broader academic interests through elective courses as you work to attain the required 120 degree credits for graduation.
Your schedule will look something like this:
College Writing or English course per placement results (3 credits) Major Exploration course (3-4 credits) Major or Minor Exploration course (3-4 credits) Course beyond main academic interest, such as SAS Core or elective course (3 credits) Course beyond main academic interest, such as SAS Core or elective course (3 credits) Byrne or First-Year Interest Group Seminar (FIGS) (1 credit) Total Credits: 15-16 |
Major Exploration Course(s) Recommended for Incoming First-Year Students
Introductory courses recommended by faculty. Include at least one of these in your schedule:
Course Title |
Course Number |
Credits |
Subject on University Schedule of Classes |
Theater Appreciation |
07:965:211 |
3 |
Theater (965) |
Course recommendations beyond this department
Your first year of college is an opportunity for you to explore fields of interest to enhance your understanding of yourself, the world around you, and your main academic and career goals. Think of your schedule as including courses you must take (English, courses to explore potential majors, etc.) and courses you can take (everything else!) All courses are part of your degree - if necessary, review the components of the SAS degree on this page.
Through these degree components, you will curate your own unique educational experience - but we understand that this level of flexibility and freedom can feel overwhelming for new students. Like a recommendation based on a book or TV show you enjoyed, the information below can help you identify related courses to consider in your first semester.
Course Title |
Course Number |
Credits |
Subject on University Schedule of Classes |
Introduction to Music Theory | 07:700:103 | 3 | Music (700) |
Introduction to Film I | 01:175:201 | 3 | Cinema Studies (175) |
Dance Appreciation | 07:203:101 | 3 | Dance (203) |
Intro to Communication Information and Processes | 04:189:101 | 3 | Communication and Media Studies (189) |