Theatre | Faculty of Arts

Program overview

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Small classes, enthusiastic professors, passionate artists and cutting-edge performance spaces and technology are all things you can expect from our dynamic Department of Theatre. Our undergraduate programs offer a solid foundation in history of theatre, theatre analysis and dramaturgy, as well as a practical specialization in performance. During your studies, you will also have access to training in staging, play writing and auditioning for one of our 20 annual plays, most of which include collaborations by professional actors from Ottawa and beyond. Scholarships, French immersion, paid contracts and paid internships are also available to our students.

The Department of Theatre at the University of Ottawa is founded on the belief that theatre research and theatre practice can and should exist side by side. Strong theoretical knowledge and sound practical experience influence one another and lead toward greater creative undertakings in whichever facet of theatre students choose.

Why choose this program

Dynamic Learning Environment: The Department of Theatre at the University of Ottawa offers small classes taught by enthusiastic professors and committed actors to provide you with a vibrant and engaging learning experience.

Comprehensive Programs: Undergraduate programs in theatre offer a solid foundation in the history of theatre, theatrical analysis and dramaturgy, coupled with practical specializations in performance, staging, playwriting and auditioning.

Abundant Opportunities: You will have opportunities to train in various aspects of theatre production, including staging, playwriting, and auditioning, during the Department’s numerous annual plays, which often feature collaborations with professional actors from Ottawa and beyond.

Diverse Pathways: The Department offers multiple program options, including an Honours BA in Theatre, a major in theatre, a minor in theatre, and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting (BFA), allowing you to tailor your education to your interests and career goals.

Supportive Community: You will benefit from scholarships, paid contracts, paid internships and opportunities for French immersion, all of which foster a supportive environment that encourages both academic and artistic excellence.

Program Structure

Get a glimpse into how uOttawa’s Theatre program is structured and the courses you’ll have the opportunity to take.

Understand program path and options

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Admission requirements and deadlines for Theatre

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After your studies

After completing your undergraduate studies in Theatre, you have two main paths to consider: continuing your education or entering the workforce.

You may choose to pursue graduate studies, such as a Master of Fine Arts in Theatre (MFA) in Directing or a Master of Arts in Theatre (MA) to focus on theatre theory and dramaturgy, allowing you to deepen your artistic practice, research abilities, and specialized knowledge of the field.

Alternatively, you can move directly into the job market, where your degree can lead to a variety of rewarding careers, including Actor, Director, Artistic Director, Theatre Administrator, Stage Manager, Theatre or Drama Teacher, or Theatre Technician. These opportunities allow you to apply the creative, collaborative, problem-solving, and leadership skills developed throughout your studies in a wide range of professional settings.

Whether you choose further studies or enter the workforce, your Theatre degree provides a strong foundation for building a successful and meaningful career in the performing arts and cultural sector.

Potential Career Paths

Tuition and fees

Learn about the costs associated with your program and explore the scholarships and funding options available to help support you along the way.

Tuition fees

Scholarships and bursaries

Student experience

Events and shows

Every term, we present a series of productions led by artist-mentors, established directors, and students enrolled in the MFA Directing Program. Students from the BFA Acting Program, students from the BA in Theatre Studies program as well as students from other departments from across the campus are invited to participate in a wide variety of creative projects.

THESPIS – Theatre Student Association

The Undergraduate Students' Association for Theatre students.

Student Association of the Faculty of Arts (SAFA)

SAFA represents the interests of undergraduate students of the Faculty of Arts within the UOSU, the Faculty, the University, the community, and the provincial and federal governments. The students’ association also works to foster a sense of community through social, academic, and cultural events, while at the same time offering a variety of services to its members.