Theatre

• Three programs are offered:
• 1 or 2-year University Transfer Program
• 2-year Technical Theatre Diploma Program
• Bachelor of Arts; Minor in Theatre
• Program Fees: Domestic Students, International Students
• Apply for Admission: Forms and Information

The Program

The Theatre department offers a two-year Theatre program, a Technical Theatre Diploma option in second year, and a Bachelor of Arts: Minor in Theatre. Students may wish to take the two-year Theatre program, and then switch to a B.A. Minor for their final two years at VIU. To obtain a B.F.A. Major degree in Theatre (instead of a B.A. Minor) students will have to attend a university offering a Bachelor Fine Arts in Theatre. The University of British Columbia, University of Victoria, and almost all Canadian universities will accept VIU’s two-year program as university transfer.

The diploma program emphasizes the technical aspects of theatre, to help fill the growing need across Canada for trained theatre technicians. Hands-on experience is fundamental to the program, and students will be learning the skills of technical theatre by working behind the scenes on a wide variety of shows. Students will be able to take theoretical and practical courses in props, costumes, sound, stage management, carpentry, running crew, front-of-house management, production management, technical direction, publicity, theatrical make-up, scene painting, special effects, and lighting.

During each academic year the Theatre department presents a season of plays and concerts, and hosts professional touring theatre and dance companies, allowing students to work alongside theatre professionals.

This program is open to full-time students only. Upon successful completion of program requirements, students will be awarded a Diploma in Fine Arts (Theatre).

A free information session for prospective students is usually held in March. Check with the Advising Centre for more details, 250-740-6410, or visit viu.ca/infosessions.

Career Opportunities

Graduates have found employment as stage managers, assistant stage managers, lighting technicians, sound technicians, box office managers, front-of-house managers, lighting board operators, scene painters, props persons, costumers, technical directors, and theatre managers.

Admission Requirements

• General admission requirements apply.
• Interview.
• English 12 with min. grade of “C” or equivalent.

Notes on Admission

• Students intending to transfer to universities should consult a VIU Advisor.
• Students must have a strong desire to work in theatre, since they have to work extremely long hours. The ability to work as a member of a team is also very important.
• Enrolment in this program is limited. Students who meet or exceed the minimum admission requirements may not necessarily be admitted to the program.

Start Date and Application Deadline

The program starts in September, and applications are accepted after November 15. Applications received after March 31 are considered late and will be processed as space permits.

University Transfer Option

Program Outline

Technical Theatre Diploma Option

Program Outline

Updated: November 19, 2009