BA in Theatre Arts – Playwriting & Directing
Craft and Share Compelling Stories with Liberty’s BA in Theatre Arts – Playwriting and Directing Degree
Liberty University’s Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Theatre Arts – Playwriting and Directing is a comprehensive program designed for aspiring playwrights and directors who are passionate about the art of storytelling and who want to develop skills in creating and bringing theatrical productions to life. Throughout this program, you can receive hands-on training, theoretical knowledge, and practical experience in the craft of playwriting and directing, supporting you as you work to become a versatile and innovative theatre professional.
As you pursue your bachelor’s degree in directing and playwriting, you can study the art of writing compelling scripts, explore diverse dramatic forms and genres, and develop your own distinct voice as a playwright. Additionally, you’ll study the principles and techniques of directing, gaining insights into the creative process, collaboration with actors and designers, and the effective realization of a vision on stage. You’ll also explore topics that are applicable to both theatre and film, allowing you to examine the connection between these 2 art forms and gain expertise that’s applicable to both industries.
As a student in this program, you can have numerous opportunities to apply your skills and knowledge in practical settings. Liberty University offers state-of-the-art facilities, including theatres and rehearsal spaces, where you can showcase your work through workshops and performances. You can work closely with experienced faculty who are passionate about mentorship and guiding you in honing your craft. Upon graduation, you can have the potential to be equipped with a comprehensive understanding of playwriting and directing that could be relevant to pursuing a career in theatre, film, television, or other related fields.
Credit Hours
View CoursesNext start date: Aug 18, 2025
Liberty University is accredited by SACSCOC
Highlights
Highlights of Our BA in Playwriting & Directing Degree
Valuable Mentors
You will study under professors with years of real-world experience in professional productions who have a passion for teaching you how to create innovative theatre that glorifies God.
Strong Support
You can have opportunities to network with other young professionals through our chapter of Alpha Psi Omega.
Practical Experience
Our Tower and Black Box Theaters allow you to gain experience in designing, directing, and performing in a variety of spaces.
Diverse Opportunities
Our professional Alluvion Stage Company provides you with opportunities for additional experience beyond student productions.
Career Potential
What Can You Do with a Playwriting and Directing Bachelor’s Degree?
Liberty University’s Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Theatre Arts with a specialization in Playwriting and Directing can help you prepare to pursue the following occupations:
- Director
- House manager
- Performing arts coordinator
- Play submissions editor
- Program director
- Scriptwriter
- Special events coordinator
- Speechwriter
- Stage manager
- Theatre manager
#4 Best College Campus in America
At Liberty, you’ll find an affordable, high-quality education designed to help equip students like you for the real world. Our commitment to excellence has earned us recognition as the #4 Best College Campus in America by Niche.com.
Earning your degree from a nonprofit university with state-of-the-art resources like ours can help set you apart from your peers.
Courses
What Will You Study in Our Directing and Playwriting Degree?
The core courses in this program cover a broad range of theatrical topics, from acting and stagecraft to theatre history and script analysis. You’ll also study theatrical design, stage management, and the integration of faith and art. By understanding how Christian faith and values can be incorporated into stage productions, you can develop potential to create shows and performances that highlight important messages and help point people toward the truth of the Gospel.
Within the playwriting and directing specialization, you’ll complete an acting workshop, which can help make you a better writer and director by allowing you to understand what a production is like from the cast members’ perspective. Additionally, you’ll dive into motion picture directing, giving you a chance to branch out into other industry areas. From there, you’ll examine various theories and methodologies in the art of directing and study how to craft scripts that are creative and keep audiences invested in your stories. By melding all of these skills, you could carry out important behind-the-scenes work in theatre and coordinate productions effectively to make a masterpiece.
Lastly, you’ll have several opportunities to receive practical experience and training for your future career. You’ll complete 2 theatre practicums as well as a seminar focusing on establishing a career in professional theatre. Your senior capstone course will give you a chance to apply skills and techniques you’ve studied throughout the program – so you can build your portfolio and pursue entering the workforce that interests you.
Additional Degree Information
Featured BA in Playwriting and Directing Courses
CINE 202 – Introduction to Motion Picture Directing
THEA 320 – Directing
THEA 431 – Playwriting
THEA 432 – Writing for Drama Ministry
Degree Information
- This program falls under the School of Communication and the Arts
- View the Degree Completion Plan
- Check out our course catalog
- Transfer in up to 75% of the degree
BENEFITS
Why Choose Liberty’s Theatre Arts Bachelor’s Degree in Playwriting and Directing?
Gain Real-World Experience On and Off the Stage
At Liberty University, you’ll have the opportunity to gain hands-on theatrical experience through academic productions and potentially earn professional credits with our Alluvion Stage Company. From creating original works to performing them from start to finish, you’ll build essential stage experience that supports your career goals. Our program is led by active professionals who are passionate about both their craft and their faith, offering expertise in areas such as acting, directing, voice, songwriting, stage combat, lighting, choreography, and more.
Study with Purpose and Faith
Our playwriting and theatre directing degree is rooted in a mission to use the art of theatre to impact the culture for Christ. Faculty members are committed to guiding you through both artistic and spiritual growth, integrating Christian values into every aspect of your education. You’ll receive mentorship from instructors who not only bring professional experience to the classroom but also model how to live out your faith in the performing arts industry.
Find Community and Build Connections
As a residential student, you’ll be part of a close-knit, collaborative community. Liberty offers numerous ways to connect with fellow theatre students and faculty – including Alpha Psi Omega, a national theatre honor society. Outside of the classroom, student clubs, campus-wide community groups, and Convocation gatherings create a supportive environment where you can grow academically, socially, and spiritually.
Pursue Excellence in Top-Tier Facilities
Liberty University is dedicated to maintaining a culture of excellence in theatre arts. We actively participate in respected organizations such as the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival (KCACTF), the Virginia Theatre Association (VTA), and the Southeastern Theatre Conference (SETC). Our state-of-the-art Tower and Black Box Theaters give you access to professional-level equipment and performance spaces. Plus, our regional accreditation through SACSCOC ensures a rigorous, high-quality education that’s respected across the industry.
Admissions
How Do You Become a BA Theatre Arts – Playwriting and Directing Student?
Every application is reviewed by the admission committee on a case-by-case basis, meaning there are no set minimums for acceptance. However, all applicants must submit the following documents* for admission:
- Admission application
- Official high school transcripts
- Official college transcripts (if applicable)
- Admission essay
Results from the CLT, SAT, or ACT are not required for admission, but may be used in consideration for merit-based aid.
*Note that additional documentation may be requested by the admission committee after your application has been received.
Have Questions?
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