Undergraduate Education Overview

Dedicated to the study and practice of theater in all its phases, the Theater Department offers a wide range of classes appropriate for non-majors pursuing a liberal arts education and for majors preparing for a professional or educational career. The department currently awards the Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) and the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degrees on the undergraduate level and the Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy degrees on the graduate level. 

All degree programs emphasize the study of dramatic literature and history as well as studio courses and participation in the production program. While the general education needs of the University are supported by the department through numerous course offerings and a very active performance program, the approximately 240 undergraduate majors and 25 graduate students reap the benefits of a department committed to excellence situated in a large university. The experience of the faculty and their active involvement presents the student with excellent mentorship. 

UCSB Dance is committed to contributing to an artistically and intellectually vibrant global society by offering a rigorous conservatory-style contemporary dance program. This training program, in an enlightened liberal arts setting, provides the environment and resources necessary for faculty and students to achieve excellence in their creative and academic research. Two degree programs, the Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) and the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), are offered for students interested in pursuing a career in dance. 

The curriculum for both the B.F.A. and B.A. degrees is studio centered. The main thrust of the training is directed toward developing performers and creative artists who are technically proficient, aesthetically astute, and historically informed. Central to both programs are daily technique classes in modern dance and ballet. A sound basis in the craft of choreography is provided, as well as a variety of courses in dance history, writing for dance, design, music, stage production and technical aspects of the theater. 

Library Guide for Dance: This guide will help you find materials for the study of dance and provide infiromation about the UCSB Library.

Library Guide for Theater: This guide is designed to help you find resources for the study of theater and performing arts. Locate reviews and production histories, find monologues and dialogues,or search the full text of thousands of plays.