»Academic Programs

Students interested in theatre education and training are often concerned with the question of whether or not to pursue the BFA degree or the BA degree.  This decision is a personal one and is should be based on a student’s future plans after graduation, something not every freshman clearly knows.  At Chapman, all students enter the BA program, giving them much of their first year to learn about each degree program, to explore their current interests and be exposed to all areas of theatre, many of which they may not have encountered or experienced.  In March of the first year in residence at Chapman, students may choose to audition for one of the BFA degrees, or may stay in the BA program and choose an emphasis.

The BA degree programs offer students the most flexibility in pursuing their studies at Chapman, easily allowing for second majors and studies in other areas of interest outside of theatre because it requires fewer credit hours (47 credits) and allows flexibility in course sequencing.

BFA students have a significant credit requirement in theatre classes (78 credits) and a required sequence of coursework that makes carrying a double major, while not impossible, more challenging due to potential class conflicts between majors.

Both degrees are designed so that students may take advantage of study abroad opportunities, although BFA students should consult with their faculty advisors to determine when in the course sequence such studies should take place.

Students who audition for BFA programs and who are not accepted may continue in the BA program in the theatre department.  Transfer students who are considering Chapman should be aware that the BFA programs require, at a minimum, three years of residence at Chapman, pending review of transfer credit, due to sequence of required courses.

Entrance to all programs in Theatre is by audition only.