MSU Institute for Arts & Creativity

The Institute for Arts & Creativity at Minot State University (MSU) offers a robust Theatre Arts program within its Department of Performing Arts, designed to provide students with comprehensive training in performance, production, and theatre scholarship. The program emphasizes hands-on experience through mainstage productions, student-directed projects, and community engagement, fostering a collaborative environment for aspiring theatre professionals. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, students receive personalized instruction in acting, directing, stage design, and technical theatre. The program is housed in facilities like the Hartnett Hall Amphitheatre and Black Box Theatre, offering practical opportunities to develop skills in a professional setting. MSU’s affordable tuition and scholarship opportunities make the program accessible to a diverse range of students.

The Theatre Arts program at MSU encourages students to explore various aspects of theatre through a curriculum that balances theoretical study with practical application. Courses cover acting, directing, stagecraft, costume design, and theatre history, preparing students for careers in performance, production, or education. Students participate in at least four mainstage productions annually, including plays and musicals, which allow them to build a professional portfolio. The program also supports student-led initiatives, such as one-act plays and improv performances, fostering leadership and creativity. Community partnerships, such as with the Mouse River Players, enhance opportunities for real-world experience in the Minot area.

MSU offers a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Theatre Arts, designed for students seeking a broad liberal arts education with a focus on theatre. This degree is ideal for those interested in versatile career paths, including acting, directing, stage management, or theatre education, and it prepares students for graduate study or professional work. The BA in Theatre Arts includes a mix of performance, technical theatre, and academic courses, with flexibility to pursue electives in related fields like communication or music. Additionally, MSU offers a Theatre Arts minor, which allows students from any major to engage in theatre courses and productions, enhancing their creative and communication skills.

The Theatre Arts program is supported by faculty with professional experience and advanced degrees, providing mentorship in both artistic and technical aspects of theatre. Faculty members guide students through productions and coursework, ensuring a well-rounded education. The program’s integration with the Institute for Arts & Creativity fosters interdisciplinary opportunities, allowing theatre students to collaborate with music and visual arts programs. This interdisciplinary approach enriches the curriculum and prepares students for diverse roles in the arts, from performing to arts administration. MSU’s commitment to accessibility is reflected in its transfer-friendly policies and support for non-traditional students.

The Institute for Arts & Creativity also promotes community engagement through events like the MSU Summer Theatre and partnerships with local arts organizations. These opportunities allow students to connect with professional networks and gain practical experience outside the classroom. The Theatre Arts program’s focus on affordability, combined with its comprehensive training and transfer pathways to graduate programs, makes it an attractive option for students aiming to pursue careers in theatre or related fields. Graduates are well-equipped for roles in professional theatre, education, or further academic study.