Acting Program | Fredonia.edu

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Your Stage, Your Story

The Acting BFA program at Fredonia offers dynamic, pre-professional training in classical and contemporary acting techniques while providing hands-on experience in performance, direction, and production. In a supportive and creative environment, you’ll develop your craft, explore diverse theatrical styles, and gain the skills to thrive in the entertainment industry. Whether your passion lies in theatre, film, or beyond, Fredonia will help you discover your unique path to success.

What You’ll Gain

Performance Skills – Develop a strong foundation in acting techniques for both classical and contemporary works.
Creative Versatility – Explore multiple aspects of theatre, including directing, production, and design.
Industry Preparation – Gain hands-on experience that prepares you for careers in theatre, film, television, and beyond.
Collaboration & Growth – Work in a supportive, inclusive environment that nurtures both artistic and personal development.
Professional Confidence – Build the skills, discipline, and resilience to succeed in the competitive world of acting.

Career Opportunities for Acting

Actor
Director
Event Planner
Spokesperson
Project Manager

Creative Research & Development
Dramaturg
Fundraiser/Nonprofit Director
Producer
Theatre Historian/Critic/Scholar

What does a 4-year degree look like?

First Year

Fall Semester

Course	Title	Credits
THEA 100	Theatre Majors' Seminar	1
THEA 103	Fund. of Theatre Tech.	1
THEA 131	Acting Studio I	3
THEA 233	Acting Lab I	1
FF	Course	3
FF	Course	3
FF	Course	3
	TOTAL	15

Spring Semester

Course	Title	Credits
THEA 121	Intro to Tech	3
THEA 132	Acting Studio II	3
THEA 234	Acting Lab II	1
FF	Course	3
FF	Course	3
	Major Elective	3

	TOTAL	16

Second Year

Fall Semester

Course	Title	Credits
THEA 201	Theatre & Dance Prod.	1
THEA 231	Scene Study I	3
THEA 242	Voice & Movement I	3
FF	Course	3
FF	Course	3
	Major Elective	3
	TOTAL	16

Spring Semester

Course	Title	Credits
THEA 202	Theatre & Dance Prod.	1
THEA 232	Scene Study II	3
THEA 243	Voice & Movement II	3
THEA 468	Devising Theatre	3
FF	Course	3
FF	Course	3
	TOTAL	16

Third Year

Fall Semester

Course	Title	Credits
THEA 301	Theatre & Dance Prod.	1
THEA 341	Shakespeare	3
THEA 345	Voice & Movement III	3
THEA 410	Acting for Media I	3
	Major Elective	3

	TOTAL	13

Spring Semester

Course	Title	Credits
THEA 220	Makeup	1
THEA 302	Theatre & Dance Prod.	1
THEA 346	Voice & Movement IV	3
THEA 359	Commedia dell’Arte	3
THEA 423	Alt. Acting Styles	3
	Major Elective	3
	TOTAL	14

Fourth Year

Fall Semester

Course	Title	Credits
THEA 441	Directing I	3
THEA 451	History of the Theatre I	3
THEA 467	Meisner Technique	3
FF	Course	3
	Major Elective	3
	TOTAL	15

Spring Semester

Course	Title	Credits
THEA 424	Business of Acting	3
THEA 452	History of the Theatre II	3
THEA 499	Perf./Prod. Seminar	3
	Major Elective	3
	Major Elective	3
	TOTAL	15

GRAND TOTAL:

This Sample Degree Map is based on the requirements published in the University Catalog.

What are all the required and elective courses offered to obtain this degree?

View Full Curriculum

THEA 424 The Business of Acting

Intensive study of skills needed by actors to increase their marketability in today's theatre.

THEA 242 Acting Studio: Introduction to Voice and Movement

Designed to support the actor in freeing the voice/body and imagination for creative response. Physical/vocal awareness and ability are enhanced through the exploration of relaxation, alignment, flexibility, strength, breath, sound, and resonance.

It's Different Here

National Accreditation

Fully accredited by the National Arts Accrediting Associations, ensuring top-tier training in theatre, music, and design.

A Program Worth Recommending

Fredonia's Theatre and Dance program has earned an exceptional reputation through generations of successful alumni who consistently praise our rigorous training and supportive community.

Serious Theatre Training

Receive conservatory-level acting training while gaining a well-rounded education in a dynamic liberal arts environment.

Why Acting at Fredonia?

Learn from Industry Professionals

Train with experienced professionals who bring their expertise to campus, offering masterclasses, workshops, and career insights to help you succeed in the industry.

Fredonia students in stage fighting class

Master the Art of Stage Combat

From swordplay to unarmed combat, this specialized training ensures you bring realism and safety to every fight scene on stage and screen.

A Stage for Every Performer

From intimate black box spaces to a grand concert hall, our cutting-edge facilities set the stage for incredible performances in theatre, opera, and dance.

Student Stories

I love Fredonia because it is a friendly, supportive community of students and staff that create a safe learning and living environment for all. There is always a friendly face or a helping hand whenever you need one!

— Emma Christmann