Performing Arts Degree Programs
At the intersection of artistry & professional practice, our performing arts degrees prepare students to thrive in the collaborative, interdisciplinary landscape of today’s industry as versatile, career-ready artists.
The Performing Arts Core Curriculum
All students engage in a holistic, core performing arts education connecting creative practice, professional preparation, and ethical responsibility.
The core prepares students for the interdisciplinary and professional demands of today’s performing arts industry. Alongside focused training in acting, dance, design and technical theatre, musical theatre, or theatre, students complete a shared curriculum integrating artistic and professional development. They create professional materials, conduct career research, and database building. Students will strengthen their research and writing skills while engaging in collaborative projects with community partners. They will also develop digital portfolios, reels, websites, complete a capstone with faculty and professional mentorship, and train in ethical practices, including intimacy work, production safety, and responsible creative processes.
Production Processes (THEA150R)
An introduction to the nonperformance areas of theatrical production (management, design and technical fields). Through lectures and related projects, the course provides an overview of design and production processes in the School of Performing Arts, as well as the roles of the stage manager and other production leadership positions.
Production Experience (THEA150P)
Provides applied learning experience in performing arts production (management, design and technical fields). Through professional level production assignment projects on School of Performing Arts shows, the course allows students opportunities to earn credit through working on crews and in production shops.
Performing Arts Seminar (THEA180E)
Interdisciplinary introduction to the School of Performing Arts. First year students in the School of Performing Arts interact and collaborate with each other for a greater understanding of performing arts. Students also break out into individual program areas of department-specific modules when appropriate.
Ethical Practices in Performing Arts (DANC/THEA280)
Provides effective tools to identify, create and maintain an inclusive space that promotes safe communication and encourages and supports creative freedom and expression. Students discover the common thread that connects seemly divisive approaches to the performing arts space while developing skills that can help redefine the spaces they enter. These spaces include, but are not limited to, rehearsal settings, learning environments and common areas.
Collaborative Community Project (DANC/THEA368)
Provides an applied, collaborative learning experience in performing arts through interdisciplinary projects and experiential learning. Students explore personal, community and societal transformation through self-reflection, creative response and community collaborative projects. This engaged learning course focuses on how the performing arts can impact change in communities and be an agent for empowerment and change.
Professional Practices for the Performing Arts (DANC/THEA370)
For all performing arts majors. Focuses on business practices in performing arts. Discussions and assignments focus on resumes, websites, reels, marketing, business plans, unions, contracts, portfolios, interviews, taxes, etc. Individual concentration areas are also covered in break-out sessions throughout the course.
Capstone Project (DANC/THEA499)
(DANC499) Capstone of a dance major's educational experience. Focuses on the process of creating a final project for the completion of the dance major under the supervision of a dance faculty mentor. The course comprises a final project and research paper that demonstrates skill in self-evaluative writing, and knowledge of principles learned in the dance degree curriculum, culminating in a concert or presentation, and oral review with the dance faculty.
(THEA499) Independent research or practical and creative final project for BFA in performing arts (acting, design and technical theatre, musical theatre) and BA in performing arts (theatre). Encompasses all areas of study in theatre as well as subjects in the emphasis or designated plan of study or minor. The project results in a work that is presented for evaluation to a panel of faculty or to faculty and an invited audience. The form of the project and manner of presentation and assessment is determined by degree concentration requirements.
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Performing Arts
A Bachelor of Arts in Performing Arts empowers you to design a career that may not even exist yet. Rooted in either theatre or dance, this interdisciplinary degree invites you to combine your artistic practice with a minor or double major to create bold, personalized pathways across industries.
You’ll build a strong creative foundation while developing highly transferable skills in collaboration, communication, and critical thinking. At the same time, you’ll intentionally connect the performing arts with fields such as business, health, education, communication, technology, and more - exploring how these intersections can lead to entirely new professional possibilities.
This flexible degree is for innovative students who want to pair disciplines, think expansively, and shape the future. Whether you pursue careers within the performing arts or forge new hybrid roles across industries, you’ll graduate prepared to adapt, lead, and create opportunities that have yet to be imagined. You will also be well prepared for graduate study across a wide range of fields, including the performing arts, arts administration, education, therapy and health-related disciplines, communication, and other interdisciplinary areas.
BA in Performing Arts - concentration in Dance
Degree Map (courses by semester)
A Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Performing Arts - Dance empowers you to combine your movement practice with a minor or double major to design innovative, future-focused careers. You’ll develop a strong foundation in contemporary dance alongside training in forms such as jazz & Broadway style, ballet, hip hop, and tap, while building skills in creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking. This flexible, interdisciplinary approach prepares you to connect dance with fields like business, health, education, communications, and more - opening pathways to both traditional & emerging career opportunities..
Questions? Contact:
Cheyla Clawson
Director for the School of Performing Arts & Associate Professor of Dance
cheyla.clawson@wichita.edu
316-978-3368
Cheyla Clawson
BA in Performing Arts - concentration in Theatre
Degree Map (courses by semester)
A Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Performing Arts - Theatre empowers you to combine your creative passions with a minor or double major to design innovative, future-focused careers. You’ll build a strong foundation in theatre while developing versatile skills in storytelling, collaboration, and critical thinking that translate across industries. This flexible, interdisciplinary approach prepares you to connect the performing arts with fields like business, communication, health, education, technology, and beyond - opening pathways to both traditional and emerging career opportunities.
Questions? Contact:
Cheyla Clawson
Director for the School of Performing Arts & Associate Professor of Dance
cheyla.clawson@wichita.edu
316-978-3368
Cheyla Clawson
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Performing Arts
A Bachelor of Fine Arts in Performing Arts provides rigorous, professional training designed to prepare students for success in today’s collaborative & interdisciplinary industry. Students develop expertise in acting, dance, design and technical theatre, or musical theatre, immersing in their focus area every semester while engaging in a shared core that supports artistic & professional growth.
Throughout the program, students gain extensive applied production or performance experience, contributing as performers, designers, technicians, & production leaders. Guest artist residencies bring current industry practices into the classroom, while ongoing faculty & professional mentorship supports strong artistic development. Students also build lasting connections through alumni engagement and networking opportunities, bridging the transition from training to career.
Graduates emerge as versatile, collaborative, & disciplined artists, equipped with the experience, insight, and adaptability needed to contribute meaningfully across a wide range of performance and production environments and beyond.
BFA in Performing Arts - concentration in Acting
Degree Map (courses by semester)
A Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Performing Arts - Acting offers rigorous, professional training to prepare you for performance across stage, film, television, and voiceover. Students engage in methods- & technique-based training every semester, including audition techniques, improvisation, & two years of voice and movement training, including voiceover acting. With performance practicums each term, you’ll consistently apply your craft in production & studio settings. Engagement with alumni and professional guest artists expands your network & industry insight. Graduates emerge as versatile, disciplined actors prepared for careers across diverse mediums.
Questions? Contact:
Amy Baker Schwiethale
Program Coordinator of Musical Theatre
amy.baker@wichita.edu
316-978-3056
BFA in Performing Arts - concentration in Dance
Degree Map (courses by semester)
A Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Performing Arts - Dance provides rigorous, contemporary-based training for today’s evolving dance field. Students engage in daily technique, rehearsal, and performance practices each semester while expanding versatility through ballet, tap, jazz, Broadway styles, & hip hop. The curriculum integrates somatics, anatomy, kinesiology, dance history, theory, and teaching methods, connecting physical practice with intellectual inquiry. With two years of choreography training, students develop their creative voice & leadership. Graduates are prepared for careers in performance, choreography, teaching, and arts leadership roles.
Questions? Contact:
Cheyla Clawson
Director for the School of Performing Arts & Associate Professor of Dance
cheyla.clawson@wichita.edu
316-978-3368
Cheyla Clawson
BFA in Performing Arts - concentration in Design & Technology
Degree Map (courses by semester)
A Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Performing Arts - Design and Technical Theatre provides comprehensive, hands-on training in costuming, stagecraft, lighting and electrics, stage management, & scenic, lighting, and costume design. Students step immediately into production roles, serving as designers and leaders from their first year. Through work in production shops & realized performances, they apply technical & creative skills in real-world settings. Guided by experienced faculty, graduates develop the artistry, collaboration, and technical expertise needed for professional careers in theatre and live production & entertainment.
Questions? Contact:
Cheyla ClawsonDirector for the School of Performing Arts & Associate Professor of Dance
cheyla.clawson@wichita.edu
316-978-3368
Cheyla Clawson
BFA in Performing Arts - concentration in Musical Theatre
Degree Map (courses by semester)
A Bachelor of Fine Arts in Performing Arts - Musical Theatre offers rigorous, comprehensive training in acting, dance, & voice, with dedicated study in acting & voice every semester. As triple-threat artists, students can audition to perform annually in a musical, play, and dance concert, building versatility across forms. Collaboration across disciplines deepens their artistry. A hallmark of the program is a unique Musical Theatre Incubator, where students work with NYC professionals to create original musicals, characters, & workshops - graduating as adaptable, innovative performers & creators ready for today’s industry.
Questions? Contact:
Amy Baker Schwiethale
Program Coordinator of Musical Theatre
amy.baker@wichita.edu
316-978-3056
Minors and Certificates in the Performing Arts
Expand your artistry, deepen your expertise, & broaden your career possibilities. Our performing arts minors & certificates offer flexible, interdisciplinary pathways that complement any major while building specialized skills. Whether you’re exploring connections between the arts & fields like psychology, business, or education, or pursuing focused training in areas such as directing, choreography, or voice acting, these programs empower you to develop a versatile, future-focused skill set & apply the arts across a wide range of careers.
A minor in dance from Wichita State will expose you to a variety of dance techniques and theory. It's a great asset for many majors and careers in the performing arts, health care, exercise science, communications, business and education.
A minor in dance education from Wichita State equips future educators with the skills to foster creativity, critical thinking and cultural awareness through movement. Strengthen your knowledge of pedagogy and prepare for a career as a dance educator, studio director or business owner.
A minor in dance and psychology from Wichita State offers students an interdisciplinary foundation in creative movement, psychology and somatic practices. It prepares students to explore the therapeutic potential of dance as a tool for emotional, cognitive and physical well-being, along with careers in therapy and medical fields. This minor is a great asset for students pursuing degrees in dance and performing arts, psychology, education, social work or health sciences.
A minor in drama and psychology from Wichita State provides students with foundational knowledge in both theatre arts and psychological principles, preparing them for careers that integrate creativity with care. Drama and psychology is an evidence-based form of expressive arts therapy that uses theatrical techniques, such as role-play, improvisation, storytelling and performance, to promote psychological healing, personal growth and social connection. This minor is a great asset for students pursuing degrees in theatre and performing arts, psychology, education, social work, human services or health sciences.
Wichita State's award-winning theatre program will equip you with a firm foundation of knowledge and practical skills for a successful theatre career. You'll enjoy personalized training with acclaimed professionals and virtually countless opportunities to showcase your talent on campus and throughout Kansas' center of arts and culture.
Wichita State's award-winning musical theatre program will equip you with a firm foundation of knowledge and practical skills for a successful performance career. The minor is ideal for theatre and vocal performance majors wanting to enhance their techniques in the style of music theatre while expanding their employment opportunities.
Minor in Performing Arts and Business
A minor in performing arts and business equips students with the management, financial and entrepreneurial skills needed to launch and sustain arts-related businesses. Combining coursework in business, accounting and management, this minor prepares students to not only to perform, but lead, innovate and build their own creative enterprises.
Minor in Performing Arts Marketing
A minor in performing arts marketing from Wichita State equips students with the creative, strategic and entrepreneurial skills needed to thrive in today's arts and entertainment industries. Combining coursework in dance, theatre and marketing, this minor prepares students to promote artistic work, engage audiences and build sustainable careers in the arts.
An undergraduate certificate in directing from Wichita State will give you basic skills in directing for nonmusical and musical stage work, as well as film, and is a great addition to many performing-arts bachelor's degrees.
Certificate in Stage Management
Wichita State's undergraduate certificate in stage management will give you the knowledge and hands-on training needed to work in commercial and regional theatre. You'll learn a variety of artistic skills and valuable management tools essential for successful careers in touring productions, dance, opera, event management and more.
An undergraduate certificate in voice acting from Wichita State prepares you for a career as a voice actor in the art and entertainment industry, creating characters in animation, video games, audio books, audio shows, commercials and podcasts. You'll develop a wide range of acting and vocal skills necessary for crafting dramatic moments and characters in vocal storytelling, and gain fundamental knowledge of audio industry mechanics.
Certificate in Commercial Dance
The undergraduate certificate in commercial dance from Wichita State increases career opportunities in performance genres including film, music videos, cruise ship entertainment and professional musicals. It is a great asset for many majors and careers — from the performing arts to education.
The undergraduate certificate in choreography from Wichita State prepares you for a career in the education, art and entertainment industries. You'll broaden your skills in concert dance, competition dance, studio choreography, film, commercial dance, community dance and professional musical choreography.