Elevating student success and regional arts scene, Slippery Rock University has received approval for listing by the National Association of Schools of Theatre for its Bachelor of Fine Arts and Bachelor of Arts theatre programs. This milestone underscores SRU’s ongoing commitment to delivering an exceptional, affordable arts education that drives student growth, launches dynamic careers and deeply engages the surrounding community.
NAST accreditation has been earned by four distinct programs: the BFA in acting, the BFA in musical theatre, the BA in theatre arts management and the BA in theatre studies, adding to existing NAST accreditations for the BA in design and technology and the BA in acting. These accreditations further cements SRU’s status as a premier training ground for the next generation of theatre professionals.
Fostering Unparalleled Student Growth
To meet NAST’s rigorous standards, SRU has continually assessed and refined its curriculum to ensure student artists reach their full potential. The intensive, conservatory-style BFA programs seamlessly blend a liberal arts foundation with highly individualized training. Recent curricular innovations include expanded private vocal lessons, dedicated scene study courses and tailored song repertoire classes that help students build highly personalized audition portfolios. Recognizing the rigorous demands of the industry, the University has also championed holistic student growth by integrating health and wellness courses specifically designed for performers.
Driving Professional Career Outcomes
Whether on stage, behind the scenes or in the boardroom, SRU’s programs are strategically designed with long-term professional success in mind:
- Performance Careers: BFA candidates are prepared for the contemporary entertainment industry through specialized auditioning courses, professional theatre practice and capstone senior showcases.
- Arts Leadership: The BA in theatre arts management equips students for crucial roles in the not-for-profit sector, culminating in a hands-on professional internship with a regional theater or arts organization.
- Cross-Disciplinary Impact: The unique BA in theatre studies concentration broadens career horizons, empowering future educators, communications professionals and therapists to seamlessly integrate theatrical production and arts advocacy into their broader career paths.
“This milestone is truly a collective achievement that reinforces the tremendous strengths of the arts programs on our campus,” said Rebecca Morrice, SRU professor theatre and department chair. “We are incredibly proud to be one of the very few institutions that still maintains accreditations through NAST, National Association of Schools of Music, National Association of Schools of Art and Design and National Association of Schools of Dance. This makes SRU a unique place to pursue an education in the arts.”
Championing Community Engagement
Beyond the classroom and the stage, SRU theatre students are actively shaping the regional arts and cultural landscape. Students in the Theatre Department’s programs gain vital, real-world experience though powerful partnerships with local, regional and national arts entities, including the Maltz Museum, Pittsburgh Musical Theatre, Pittsburgh CLO, American College Theatre Festival and the United States Institute for Theatre Technology.
By pursuing NAST accreditation, SRU reaffirms its dedication to cultivating highly skilled, well-rounded and community-focused artists and leaders who are ready to sustain and innovate the arts sector for decades to come.
More information about theatre at SRU is available on the program webpage.
