
Theater Arts Major
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Theater Arts Major
Study Theater Arts at Azusa Pacific University
You’ll work side by side with industry professionals, participate in prestigious internships, and build your résumé and portfolio with production materials—uniquely equipped to pursue creative entrepreneurial careers in areas such as stage management, playwriting, and directing. Hone your skills with access to Los Angeles’ diverse array of venues and culminate your training in an event showcasing your innovation and achievement to professionals in the field.
Program at a Glance
The School of Visual and Performing Arts develops students’ talents through rich artistic experiences and comprehensive training in their chosen artistic discipline.
Application Deadline
- February 15, 2024, is the priority deadline for the Fall 2024 BA Theater Arts Scholarship Application.
- This program is also admitting students for the spring 2024 semester, but spring applicants may not apply for the theater arts scholarship; they will instead be considered for the APU Grant as eligible.

Gain Hands-on Experience
- Participate in prestigious internships across Los Angeles.
- Create course and production projects for your professional résumé and portfolio.
- Practice your craft in APU’s four mainstage productions per year.
- Share your work with professionals in the field during a culminating showcase.
By the Numbers
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Program Details
The Bachelor of Arts in Theater Arts program uniquely equips students to pursue creative entrepreneurial careers in a broad range of theater arts areas including stage management, playwriting, and directing.
Browse the tabs below—if you have questions, visit the Student Services Center page, and we’ll make sure you get the info you need.
How to Apply
- Complete your APU Undergraduate Application
- Select Theater: Theater Arts, BA as your major
- When prompted, complete your BA Theater Arts Scholarship Application
- If eligible, complete your FAFSA (does not apply to international students)
Auditions
Students do not need to audition for the theater arts major, as this is not an acting degree. Students who are primarily interested in acting should apply to our BFA in Acting for the Stage and Screen program.
Plan a Visit
APU Theater Arts in-person Campus Tours includes an exclusive Theater Arts tour, reception with faculty, lunch with Theater students, and an audit of a class. Parents and students are able to find out more about APU Theater Arts. The sessions will be hosted by a member of our admissions team, who will introduce you to our unique program. We look forward to meeting you!
In-person Campus Tours Fall 2023 Dates:
- October 20th
- November 10th
Theater Arts Immersive Day
February 23, 2024, spend the day with Theater Arts faculty and students. Join us for a University tour, department tour, academic connect with faculty, audit a class, lunch with theater students and see a production.
Theater Arts Virtual Connect
We invite you to get to know Azusa Pacific University Theater Arts faculty and programs by registering for a Zoom Information Session as well as a Q&A with Theater student ambassadors.
Virtual Theater Arts Q&As Fall 2023 Dates:
- October 27th at 4pm (PST)
- November 17th at 4pm (PST)
Virtual Theater Arts Q&As Spring 2024 Dates:
- January 26th at 4pm (PST)
- March 1st at 4pm (PST)
BA in Theater Arts Scholarship Application Requirements
- APU Undergraduate Application
- Fall 2024 BA in Theater Arts Scholarship Application Form, including one of the following creative work samples:
- One-Act or Full-Length Original Play or Adaptation
- Critical Essay on an aspect of theatrical history, literature, or production (five pages)
- Design Portfolio (photos accepted)
- Directing (video sample accepted)
Declaring Your Major
Students may declare a major in theater arts once they are admitted to APU.
General Undergraduate Admission Requirements
Select an option below:
College of the Arts Theater Scholarship
The College of the Arts Theater Scholarship is a talent-based scholarship available to select incoming undergraduate students enrolled in the:
Although a private college education may seem out of reach for many, recent research from Kiplinger reveals that the actual value of some private universities may prove this assumption wrong. In 2010, Kiplinger selected Azusa Pacific University for its Top 100 Best Values in Private Colleges rankings. Read more about APU’s ranking in Kiplinger’s Best Values in Private Colleges.
APU students may take advantage of three types of financial aid: scholarships and grants, education loans, and student employment.
Scholarships and Grants
Scholarships and grants are considered “gift aid” and do not require repayment. They can come from federal, state, or private sources. Scholarships are typically merit-based, meaning they are awarded depending on demonstrated academic ability or other specific talents.
Scholarships are often available from sources outside of APU. You can search for these scholarships through websites such as finaid.org or fastweb.com. The Student Services Center is sometimes notified of scholarships available through APU departments or local organizations, and can provide information about any available scholarships on request.
Education Loans
Education loans are usually repaid after graduation, may be deferred until after graduate school, and often have very low interest rates.
Military Benefits
Military members—and in some cases their spouses and dependents—qualify for financial assistance covering tuition, housing, and books. Azusa Pacific is a Yellow Ribbon University and Military Friendly School, so you can be confident that you’ll receive the benefits and flexibility you need to complete your education.
Student Employment
On-campus student employment is available for students needing additional income to pay for education-related expenses. APU students also find work off campus in the surrounding community.
Net Price Calculator
We’re committed to helping families understand early in the college search process the value of the APU experience, and options for affordable financing of a top-tier Christian university education.
Now that you’re familiar with the financial aid opportunities available to APU students, it’s time to estimate what your true cost may be to attend Azusa Pacific. Remember, estimations are only as accurate as the information you provide. Click on the Net Price Calculator button below to begin.
Net Price Calculator
To view specific requirements and coursework information, visit the current academic catalog:
Azusa Pacific University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).
Featured Faculty

Monica Ganas
Professor, Department of Theater Arts

Christopher Keene
Associate Professor of Technical Theater, Department of Theater Arts

Kirsten Lundin Humer
Program Director, BFA in Acting for the Stage and Screen; Associate Professor, Department of Theater Arts
Career Outlooks and Outcomes

College of the Arts Hosts Industry Spotlight at Warner Bros. Studios
APU’s College of the Arts (COTA) hosted the 2023 Industry Spotlight on May 4 at the legendary Warner Bros. Studios, giving students a chance to showcase their work in front of industry talent representatives and casting directors.