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Contemporary Theatre Making Degree

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Contemporary Theatre Making

Department of Theatre

Innovative B.F.A. Program Creates Theatre Makers

The B.F.A. in contemporary theatre making: directing, devising and playwriting — formerly known as theatre arts — is a rigorous 125-credit program designed for creative students who want to explore, challenge and advance the art and craft of making theatre.

Beginning freshman year, B.F.A. students are immersed in generative theatre practices, with hands-on opportunities to collaborate with other Conservatory of Performing Arts programs. With an emphasis on generating new work, multi-disciplinary collaboration with professionals and peers in directing, playwriting and devising, and hands-on experience through the Contemporary Theatre Making Lab, students in this program graduate ready to meet the demands of an ever-evolving industry.

All students in this unique and exciting program begin with two years of study in theatre-making techniques that include:

  • Directing
  • Playwriting
  • Devised Theatre
  • Improvisation
  • Acting
  • Stage Movement
  • Voice and Speech
  • Theatrical Intimacy and Stage Combat

Concentration in Directing, Playwriting or Self-Directed Studies

Along with a comprehensive introduction to theatre-making techniques, contemporary theatre-making majors choose one of three concentrations:

  • Directing
  • Playwriting
  • Self-Directed Studies

Point Park students perform a show in the University's Pittsburgh Playhouse.

Flexible B.F.A. Program Offerings

Contemporary theatre-making majors choose from various areas of emphasis within the Conservatory of Performing Arts, or from a wide range of university offerings, to personalize their undergraduate training and complete their concentration. 

Options for areas of study in:

  • Advanced Directing
  • Advanced Playwriting
  • Theatrical Design
  • Technical Production
  • Film Production
  • Screenwriting
  • Stage Management
  • Education
  • Psychology
  • Creative Writing
  • Sports, Arts, Entertainment and Music Business

Contemporary theatre-making majors choosing to pursue a concentration in self-directed studies may audition for a minor in musical theatre and/or dance during their freshman or sophomore year.

Students can also double major, study abroad and/or complete the B.F.A. degree in three years with summer coursework. 

Additionally, the Conservatory offers B.F.A. majors a variety of options to earn an undergraduate and graduate degree as part of our fast-track bachelor's to master's programs.

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"By participating in the program, students have the opportunity to write, direct, devise, perform and grow into the multi-hyphenate theatre maker that is necessary in today's industry."

Mady Thetard '25

Hands-On Experience Inside and Outside of the Classroom

Students learn from faculty who have trained and worked on stages around the world. Acclaimed guest artists, including playwrights, directors, and casting directors regularly come to campus to conduct classes and workshops.

In collaboration with Bridges Theatre Company, our student-run ensemble, contemporary theatre making majors can learn about all aspects of creating and presenting a four-show season. In addition, those who study advanced directing serve as the directors of our semiannual One Act Festivals

Learn more: MinorsCoursebook | Course Descriptions

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