1. Are your degree programs accredited?
Yes. In addition to the University's Southern Association of Schools accreditation our department's programs are accredited by the National Association of Schools of Theatre (NAST) and the National Association of Schools of Dance (NASD).
2. What is the size of your Department Faculty?
As of the Fall of 2019, there are 31 full time faculty and 15 adjunct faculty. These numbers break down as follows:
| Full time | Adjunct | |
|---|---|---|
| Dance | 9 | 7 |
| Theatre | 22 | 8 |
All our major courses are taught by faculty.
There are many opportunities for students to engage with faculty mentors beyond the formal classroom.
- While accurate calculation of current majors is difficult due to undeclared underclassmen, we estimate the approximate number of students pursuing or intending to pursue a theatre major is 100 - 120 and those in dance is 40 - 45.
- This results in student teacher ratios of 4:1 in theatre and 3:1 in dance.
- Please explore the faculty and staff credentials and biographies in our directory.
In addition to the faculty there are four staff positions that are vital to the operation of our program.
(They hire and supervise student workers... see question #3.)
- Executive Office Manager
- Technical Director / Scenic Studio Supervisor
- Costume Studio Supervisor
- Box Office Manager
3. What are some outstanding features of your programs?
Opportunity for paid positions in the following areas:
- Department Office
- Scenic Studio
- Costume Studio
- Box Office
Student engagement:
Students engage in creating art from their first semester to their last. In addition to annual seasons of 4 mainstage Theatre productions and 3 Dance concerts, there are various student club productions.
- First Year Showcase - First year students are showcased in theatre and dance.
- Student Organizations - Students develop skills in critical and creative thinking as well as leadership.
Special Programs:
- Appalachian Young People's Theatre - A touring theatre ensemble.
- Pilates Training
- Study Abroad Opportunities
- New York Loft Trips
Assistance in seeking summer and post-graduate employment opportunities through:
- Southeastern Theatre Conference (SETC) Auditions and Job Contact
- United States Institute of Theatre Technology (USITT)