Theatre Arts Major

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Theatre Arts

Get a competitive edge in the job market with an internship at a local theatre.

Merrimack’s Theatre Arts program will develop theatre artists who not only master the theory behind the craft but also develop the creative skills needed to truly captivate an audience.

Theatre Arts Degree at a Glance

Program Type

Major

Mode of Study

On Campus

Internship

Guaranteed

Est. Time

4 Years

Start Terms

Fall, Spring

Accreditation

NECHE

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The Theatre Arts Major

Understand the cultural and historical roots of theatre while learning how to apply this knowledge across all disciplines within the theater profession. Our expert faculty will teach you how to blend knowledge, theory and real-world practice.

What You'll Study

Expect an academic experience designed to enrich your creativity while providing you with factual background knowledge of the arts, management and more:

Acting
Theatre Practicum
Theatre History
Technical Production
Visual & Performing Arts
Inquiry & Research
Directing
Design for Theatre
Improvisiation
Script Analysis
Arts Management

Skills You'll Learn

Prepare to experience both lecture-based courses and real-world applications to reinforce the skills you’ll gain from our Theatre Arts degree.

Performance Skills
Collaboration
Leadership
Technical Skills
Time Management
Critical Analysis
Oral and Written Communication
Addams Family Theatre Production

STUDENT WORK

Kennedy Center American College Theater Awards
Merrimack College theater students were recognized for their hard work and attended the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival.
Headshot of Ariana White '25
Student Spotlight: Ariana White ‘25, Double Major
Double major Ariana White chats with us about her experience working at LegoLand New York as a character performer and sidekick.
Lilia Hessasta ’25
Outstanding Stage Management Intern

Lilia Hessasta ’25 was awarded Outstanding Stage Management Intern at this year’s Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival.

Theatre Arts Courses You'll Take

Acting I

THR 1510

This is an introductory level acting class. The course explores the basic concepts of acting, characterization, improvisation, script analysis and rehearsal techniques through class exercises, written assignments, readings and preparation of monologues and scenes.

Theatre
Practicum

THR 1515

This course is a hands-on learning experience in theatre production and performance. Students will gain practical skills and essential knowledge of what it takes to mount a play by working on the mainstage production in the areas of performance, technical, or management. 

Design For
the Theatre

THR 2580

This course provides an introduction to the history, philosophy and skills utilized in the design of scenic, lighting and costume for the theater. Students will work the stages of design from research to implementation, learning the skills necessary to create theatrical designs. 

See All Courses & Options Available to Theatre Arts Majors

Theatre Arts Major Requirements

General Education Requirements

In addition to the major requirements below, you will also need to complete Merrimack’s general education requirements. To see more details about the major, please visit catalog.merrimack.edu.
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Sample Four-Year Schedule - Curriculum Guide

Wondering when you’ll take certain courses? Use the Curriculum Guide—a sample four-year schedule—to get a sense of what your path to graduation looks like.

Theatre Arts Students In the Classroom & Beyond

When it comes to career readiness, we believe getting outside of the classroom is key. At Merrimack, you’ll complement your coursework with experiences like guaranteed internships, co-ops, service learning or faculty-led research projects.

Career Outlook: Where Can a Theatre Arts Degree Take You?

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Career Outcomes Rate

94% of the undergraduate class of 2023 in Arts & Sciences were either employed, participating in voluntary service or continuing their education within nine months of graduation.

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Experiential Learning

90% of the undergraduate class of 2023 participated in at least one internship, co-op, clinical, practicum or research opportunity while at Merrimack. 

Graduate School

Merrimack, New England School of Law, George Washington University and Boston College are just some of the graduate programs Arts & Sciences graduates are attending.

Jobs with a Theatre Arts Degree

Upon completing our program, you’ll be well-equipped to pursue graduate study or a career in theatre arts. Positions may include:

  • Costume Designer
  • Company Manager
  • Production Manager
  • Box Office/Group Sales
  • Technical Director
  • Theatre Arts and Technical Director
  • Marketing & Communications Assistant
  • Actor 

Beyond the Classroom

See for Yourself

Programs Related to the Theatre Arts Major

Explore other areas and where they can take you.

Take the Next Step (We're Here to Help)

At Merrimack, we are ready to meet you where you are and get you where you want to go. And, we make the process simple along the way!

Upcoming Events

four students sitting in a cafe around a laptop

Info Session & Campus Tour

Monday-Friday & Most Saturdays

Attend a 20-minute info session led by an admission counselor and then take a student-led campus tour. Registration is required.

Merrimack College Awards & Recognition

U.S. News & World Report | Best Regional Universities North (2024)

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