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Western鈥檚 School of Stage and Screen offers both Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) degrees through five distinctive programs. Whether your passion lies in film production, musical theatre, acting, design, or dance, our programs are designed to help you hone your craft, develop creative thinking, and gain a deeper understanding of the arts.

We are proudly accredited by the National Association of Schools of Theatre and are a member of the North Carolina Theatre Conference (NCTC).

Admission to all programs is competitive and requires an audition or interview. A minimun 2.5 GPA is required for admission and contiuned enrollment. 

Mission Statement

To spark creativity, facilitate innovation, and cultivate artists who are confident and prepared to succeed in the entertainment industry.

Core Values

• Storytelling transforms both the audience and the artist.
• Students learn from experienced, working professionals.
• Immersive, mentored environments foster hands-on learning.
• Technique and industry standards are essential to artistry.
• Historical, social, and cultural awareness is vital.
• We celebrate diversity in people, perspectives, and art.

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The following undergraduate degrees are offered at WCU鈥檚 School of Stage and Screen

馃幀B.F.A. in Film & Television Production

51看片 the Program
At WCU, storytelling is at the heart of filmmaking. Students gain hands-on experience from script to screen using professional equipment and facilities, including Avid editing suites and on-campus sound stages. Faculty with real-world industry experience guide students through every phase of production.

Highlights 

• Collaborative projects with acting, design, and business students
• Strong emphasis on story, technique, and professionalism 

Concentrations: 

• Screenwriting
• Producing
• Cinematography & Editing
• Directing

8 Semester Plan 

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馃帳 B.F.A. in Musical Theatre

51看片 the Program
Train as a triple-threat performer鈥攕inger, dancer, and actor鈥攊n a rigorous, conservatory-style program led by Broadway professionals, including award-winning playwright, lyricist, and director Matt茅 O鈥橞rien. As the Distinguished Professor of Musical Theatre at Western Carolina University, O鈥橞rien brings a wealth of industry experience and a passion for storytelling to the classroom. His work has been produced internationally and includes collaborations with EGOT winner Whoopi Goldberg and productions at renowned venues such as The Goodspeed Opera House and The Royal George Theatre. Under his mentorship, students receive immersive training in performance and technical theatre, preparing them for successful careers on stage or in graduate study. Students receive intensive training in performance and technical theatre, preparing them for careers on stage or in graduate study.

Highlights 

• World-class faculty and facilities
• Strong foundation in acting, voice, and dance
• Optional Dance Minor available

8 semester plan

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馃幁 B.F.A. in Theatre: Acting for Stage and Screen

51看片 the Program
This audition-only program prepares students for careers in both theatre and film. With a dual focus on stage and camera acting, students receive conservatory-style training in performance, movement, voice, and analysis.

  

Curriculum Includes

4 stage acting courses
4 on-camera acting courses 
Movement, voice, and dialect training
Script and character analysis 
Extensive production experience

8 semester plan

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馃帹 B.F.A. in Entertainment Design and Technology

51看片 the Program
For students passionate about the visual and technical elements of storytelling, this program offers training in lighting, scenic, costume, sound, and properties design. Students work hands-on in productions and develop a professional portfolio.

Highlights

Courses in design, construction, and technology 
Collaborative projects with performance students 
Faculty with professional design and tech experience

8 semester plan

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馃帴 B.A. in Stage and Screen

51看片 the Program
A flexible, interdisciplinary degree for students interested in multiple aspects of theatre and film. The B.A. allows for greater course customization and is ideal for students who want to explore acting, directing, writing, design, and production.

 

Highlights

Broad-based curriculum
Ideal for double majors or minors 
Emphasis on creative exploration and collaboration

8 semester plan

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馃拑 Dance Minor

51看片 the Program
Focused on Musical Theatre Dance, the minor includes training in Ballet, Jazz, Modern, and Tap, along with coursework in dance history, anatomy, and choreography. Open to all students, the program enhances physical expression, coordination, and performance skills.

 

Highlights

Expert faculty with professional experience 
Performance and choreography opportunities 
Complements BFA programs, especially Musical Theatre