Performance with Purpose

The Bachelor of Arts in Theatre, Dance and Performance Technology in the Department of Visual and Performing Arts at UD prepares you to become a well-rounded and socially conscious practitioner through experiential learning in all areas. And with concentrations in acting, applied theatre, dance, music theatre, performance technology or theatre studies, you can personalize your studies to align with your interests and career goals.


About Theatre, Dance and Performance Technology (B.A.)

Why study theatre, dance and performance technology at UD?

Incorporating Community

In today's performative world, it is not enough to be a fantastic interpreter of already-scripted works. Graduates in creative fields now also need to know how to create original works: how to research, respond to and ethically represent the communities in which they live.

At UD, you'll gain the theoretical grounding to grapple with the politics of representation and ethically answer the questions: Whose stories? Who for? Why do we tell them? You'll also have an original point of view, a developed perspective and the confidence to contribute. The creative industries call for content creators, and our graduates are poised to meet that demand.

Gaining Experience

Our students have many opportunities to gain practical experience in their craft. Through the Altitude Theatre Lab, all students gain a full spectrum of theatre experiences — acting, movement, interpretation, repertoire, directing and more — in a supportive environment that focuses on growth of the individual artist.

Members of our UD Dance Ensemble are mentored by dance professionals who are actively working in their field. Regular opportunities for solo and ensemble performances include weekly recital opportunities, collaborative experiences with a wide variety of music and theater productions, and engagement with community organizations like the Dayton Contemporary Dance Company.

Performing Arts Scholarship

A Performing Arts Scholarship is available for theatre, dance and performance technology students who participate in audition day.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Explore admission options or schedule an academic visit to learn more about theatre, dance and performing technology at UD.

How do I apply to the theatre, dance and performance technology program?

At the University of Dayton, applying is free and test scores are optional. When you apply, you'll automatically be considered for a merit scholarship.

Learn about our admission process, then apply using UD's application or the Common App.

What is the tuition cost and is financial aid available?

Rooted in our Catholic, Marianist traditions, the University of Dayton is dedicated to being transparent and ensuring student success. And with high graduation and success rates, UD is an excellent value.

To help you cover your costs, a variety of scholarships, grants, loans and part-time work study are available. The University also accepts transfer credits and credit by exam for undergraduates, giving you more flexibility to add a double major or minor or participate in a transformational experience like study abroad or co-op.

A Performing Arts Scholarship is available for theatre, dance and performance technology students who participate in audition day.


Degree Requirements and Curriculum

Theatre, Dance and Performance Technology (B.A.) Degree Requirements

Requirements

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre, Dance and Performance Technology degree requires a total of at least 120 hours. This degree also includes requirements from our flexible undergraduate curriculum, known as the Common Academic Program (CAP).

About the Degree

University of Dayton's theatre, dance and performance technology program provides a liberal arts tradition, creating performance with purpose through interdisciplinary discovery. We engage talent in the service of community, leading through the arts to problem-solve.

Theatre, dance and performance technology majors can choose a concentration in acting, applied theatre, dance, music theatre, performance technology or theatre studies.

Sample Plan of Study

This is a sample plan of study for students starting at UD in the 2026-27 academic year. This is a recommended course sequence, but your schedule may vary depending on previously earned college credits, course availability, advisor recommendations and your personal goals and interests. Please contact the recruitment and admission team (prospective students) or your holistic advisor (current students) with questions.

Semester 1
  • ASI 150 – Introduction to the University Experience
    1
  • HUM 101 – Chaminade Seminar: Reading and Responding to the Signs of the Times
    3
  • CMM 100 – Principles of Oral Communication
    3
  • THR 105 – Theatre Appreciation
    3
  • THR 200 – Performance Laboratory
    0
  • Language 101
    3
  • Total Credit Hours 13
Semester 2
  • THR 200 – Performance Laboratory
    0
  • THR 300 – Performance Practicum
    1
  • THR 311 – Design Concepts
    3
  • HUM 102 – Marie Thérèse Seminar: Human Dignity and the Common Good
    3
  • THR Concentration/Elective
    3
  • CAP Mathematics
    3
  • Language 141
    3
  • Total Credit Hours 16
Semester 3
  • THR 200 – Performance Laboratory
    0
  • THR 300 – Performance Practicum
    1
  • ENG 200 – Writing Seminar II
    3
  • THR Concentration/Elective
    3
  • CAP Natural Science with Lab
    4
  • Language 201 or Contextual
    3
  • Total Credit Hours 14
Semester 4
  • THR 200 – Performance Laboratory
    0
  • THR 300 – Performance Practicum
    1
  • THR Concentration/Elective
    3
  • CAP Social Science
    3
  • CAP Diversity and Social Justice
    3
  • B.A. Arts (other than THR)
    3
  • B.A. Natural Science or B.A. Math
    3
  • Total Credit Hours 16
Semester 5
  • THR 200 – Performance Laboratory
    0
  • THR 300 – Performance Practicum
    1
  • THR Concentration/Elective
    3
  • CAP Advanced Historical Studies
    3
  • B.A. Elective (300/400 level)
    3
  • General Electives
    6
  • Total Credit Hours 16
Semester 6
  • THR 200 – Performance Laboratory
    0
  • THR Concentration/Elective
    3
  • CAP Faith Traditions
    3
  • CAP Practical Ethical Action
    3
  • B.A. Humanities
    3
  • B.A. Elective (300/400 Level)
    3
  • Total Credit Hours 15
Semester 7
  • THR 200 – Performance Laboratory
    0
  • THR Concentration/Elective
    3
  • CAP Advanced Religious Studies
    3
  • CAP Interdisciplinary Investigations
    3
  • B.A. Social Science
    3
  • B.A. Interdisciplinary Programs
    3
  • Total Credit Hours 15
Semester 8
  • THR 200 – Performance Laboratory
    0
  • THR 499 – Creating New Works
    3
  • THR Concentrations/Electives
    6
  • CAP Advanced Philosophical Studies
    3
  • B.A. Elective (300/400 level)
    3
  • Total Credit Hours 15

Transfer and Exam Credits

Wondering how college credits you've already earned (e.g., transfer credit, CCP, AP/IB/CLEP exams) will apply to your undergraduate degree? Use our online Transfer Credit Evaluation tool to find out.


Success After Graduation

Get more than your foot in the door — get ready for success. At our College of Arts and Sciences, you will have the opportunity to combine the classroom and business world together in a way that allows you to further sharpen your skills. It’s a key reason why employers love hiring our students — they can hit the ground running.


Beyond the Classroom: The UD Theatre, Dance and Performance Technology Experience

Our Productions

Gain hands-on experience working in a wide range of theatre productions, including mainstage productions and experimental work.

Altitude Theatre Lab

The Altitude Theatre Lab is dedicated to using performance for social change. Put your talents in theatre, dance and music to work making an impact on the things that matter most.

Dean's Summer Fellowship

The Dean’s Summer Fellowship program provides an opportunity for undergraduate students in the College of Arts and Sciences to conduct research during the summer under the guidance of a full-time faculty mentor.

Stander Symposium

An annual campus-wide forum to showcase academic excellence and recognize student learning through faculty-mentored undergraduate research, scholarship and artistic accomplishment.


Walk. Run. Fly. Soar.

Success is a Journey

At the University of Dayton, you'll have a supportive community dedicated to fueling your success. Through guaranteed, real-world experience, you'll build the skills and confidence needed to be workforce ready.


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Ready to Study Theatre, Dance and Performance Technology at UD?

Let’s create your future. Now you know what we’re about: community, personal attention, hands-on learning, integrity and global thinking. Take the next step and connect with us today.

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