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The purpose of the BFA Theatre Education Program is to provide a comprehensive and dynamic curriculum that equips students with a deep understanding of performance, production, technical theatre, playwriting, history, directing, and education. Led by award-winning faculty with extensive industry experience, the program enriches the educational journey of theatre education majors. 

Through hands-on teaching, acting, directing, production, and program management opportunities, students engage fully in their learning process over the course of four years. Collaboration with the theatre education faculty mentor enables students to develop a meticulously crafted process portfolio that reflects their growth and skill development. 

The program highlights the practical application of teaching skills by involving students in managing an after-school theater troupe at a local elementary school, which has been successfully run for over eleven years. Students also gain experience through observations with highly qualified local theater educators within public school districts, and internships with education departments at professional theater companies such as The Alley Theatre, Theatre Under the Stars, and A.D. Players. 

Furthermore, students are encouraged to attend state theatre conferences, including the Texas Educational Theatre Association and Texas Thespians, where they can participate in workshops conducted by professional teaching artists and theatre administrators. Theatre Education students also can submit proposals to present workshops at theatre conferences, receiving valuable feedback on their presentations. This comprehensive approach is designed to develop well-rounded educators ready to make significant contributions to the field of theatre education. 

The ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú's Summer M.A. for Theatre Educators is a 26-month graduate program designed for working theatre educators. It features three immersive summer sessions blending hands-on training in acting, directing, and design with cutting-edge pedagogy.

Each cohort consists of up to 12 educators who engage in intensive on-campus classes Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., for three and a half weeks, followed by a week-long off-site experience at renowned institutions like Lincoln Center (NYC), Steppenwolf Theatre (Chicago), or the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (London). This unique opportunity includes live performances, backstage tours, and exclusive training with industry professionals.

During the academic year, students continue their studies remotely, applying their summer training to their classrooms and productions through digital process-folios. The program is designed to balance rigorous professional development with the demands of a busy teaching career.

For more information about the program or application process, please reach out to Jessica Ferrarone at Jferraro@Central.UH.EDU  

• , Assistant Instructional Professor of Acting, Head of Summer MA for Theatre Educators
• , Instructional Assistant Professor, Head of BFA Theatre Education
• , Associate Professor of Voice, Head of Graduate Studies
• , Assistant Professor, Voice & Speech
• , Professor, Costume Design & Technology