Shepherd University

Shepherd University offers a unique Bachelor of Arts in Contemporary Theatre Studies (CTS)—the only public-university undergraduate degree in the U.S. explicitly focused on contemporary theatre practices. Rooted in the liberal arts, the program balances scholarship, creativity, and inclusivity. Faculty and students collaborate closely within an environment that emphasizes anti-racist, queer-affirming, and socially engaged theatre-making.

The program benefits greatly from its partnership with the Contemporary American Theater Festival (CATF)—a prestigious professional summer festival hosted annually on the Shepherd campus. CTS students gain access to CATF productions, industry mentors, internships, and guest-artist workshops, directly integrating student learning with professional artistic ecology.

Student productions take place throughout the academic year in the Stanley C. and Shirley A. Marinoff Theater, a 180-seat flexible venue on campus equipped with professional scenic and design facilities. From student-directed showcases to full plays, CTS offers real-world creative engagement with roles on stage, backstage, and in production leadership—with no audition required for entry into the program.

The curriculum includes foundational courses such as Introduction to Theater, Acting I, Theater Technology, and Directing II, while offering practicum experiences in both acting and technical labs. Coursework encourages students to pursue dual orientations—such as acting and dramaturgy or design and arts management—tailored to individual strengths and interests.

Graduates leave with a well-developed portfolio, production credits, critical thinking skills, and strong creative versatility. With deep ties to CATF and an experiential studio curriculum, CTS alumni are prepared for careers in performance, design, playwriting, arts administration, or further graduate study.