Areas of Study | SUNY Oswego

Learn by Doing

SUNY Oswego Theatre is committed to preparing students for positions within and outside of the professional theatre industry. Our hands-on programming offers the opportunity to gain expertise in acting, directing, design, production, management, dramaturgy, dance and more.

All theatre programs are generalist in nature, which will give you experience in multiple areas of the theatrical arts, both in areas of your interest and beyond. You will gain historical perspective, familiarity with the great plays of the world, and an opportunity to participate in all areas of the theatre.

Major Curriculum

Degree Requirements Theatre Courses

Related Minors

Theatre Minor

Dance Minor

Live Event Design Minor

Expressive Arts Therapy Minor

Students and Teacher in Dance Studio — Beginning Ballet

Students in Movement Class — Movement for the Actor

Students in the Costume Shop — Basic Costuming

Student drawing — Introduction to Theatre Design

Student learning to solder — Stage Electronics & Mechanics

Three people working on a properties mold — Theatrical Stage Properties

Acting & Directing

Students have the opportunity to train in a variety of acting and directing techniques, building from early fundamentals up to advanced concepts of performance. Students will train in varying levels of traditional and contemporary performance styles, character interpretation, music theatre, and script analysis, to create a well-rounded performer. Departmental performance and directing opportunities make this a hands-on place to prepare you for the professional world.

Design & Production

Students in our program will have the opportunity to learn applicable skills for both the design and implementation of technical and backstage tasks. Designers will gain valuable skill and practical experience in the areas of scenery, costumes, lighting, props, or sound; while technicians will learn through hands-on experience in areas such as set construction, costume building, electrics, operation, prop building and stage management, all of which will build to the development of a professional portfolio.

Dramaturgy, Theatre History, & Criticism

Students will have the opportunity to deepen their academic experience in theatre through research, analysis, script development, theatre history, and dramaturgy. Students may contribute to departmental productions as dramaturgs, help develop new plays, and write contextual material, to engage in the many practical, applicable opportunities available for any detail-minded student.