​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Program Description

As a student of theatre and interpretation at CMU, you’ll explore performance, design and technical opportunities inside and outside the classroom. You’ll have access to scene and costume shops, as well as rehearsal rooms. Dedicated faculty members go the extra mile to help you develop your talents. You’ll expand your experience by taking part in University Theatre, Studio Theatre Series and CMU Summer Theatre.​​

Put Your Degree to Work

As a graduate of the theatre and interpretation program at CMU, you will find a variety of career opportunities:

  • Actor/actress
  • Theater/movie critic
  • Scenery/lighting designer
  • Stage manager
  • Costume manager
  • Box office manager
  • Theatre and interpretation instructor
  • Stage director

​U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics sample data

JobMedian PayJob Growth through ​2022​
Producer/director$71,350 per year3% (2,900 more jobs)
Actors$42,130 per year4% (3,300 more jobs)
Musical director$47,350 per year5% (3,500 more jobs)

For More Information

Visit the communication and dramatic arts website​ or contact:

Department of Communication and Dramatic Arts
Moore Hall 333
Phone: 989-774-3177​

Program Overview

The course listings below are a representation of what this academic program requires. For a full review of this program in detail please see our official online academic bulletin AND consult with an academic advisor. This listing does not include the General Education courses required for all majors and may not include some program specific information, such as admissions, retention, and termination standards.

(Click on the course name or number for a complete course description.)

Theatre & Interpretation Major

Total: 43 semester hours
Core Courses
(31 hours)
In addition, take 3 studio courses in 3 different areas.
TAI 170
Oral Interpretation of Literature
3
TAI 177
Stagecraft and Stage Lighting
4
TAI 182
Acting I
3
TAI 278
Stage Makeup
3
TAI 481
Directing
3
TAI 499
Senior Capstone
3
TAI 574
History of Drama and Theatre I
3
TAI 575
History of Drama and Theatre II
3
TAI 580
Dramatic Theory and Criticism
3
Required Courses
(12 hours)
Select 12 hours of TAI courses in consultation with an advisor.