B.F.A. in Stage Management

The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Stage Management prepares students for entry into the professional theater as stage managers. Stage Management requires knowledge of all aspects of production, a foundation in theater history, and a range of interpersonal skills. 

The B.F.A. in Stage Management at Ohio University is a combination of academics and practical application that supports the development of a professional stage manager. Students learn skills and best practices in their Stage Management courses and apply their training on productions with close mentorship as early as their first year.

View Sample Curriculum [pdf]  

What You'll Learn

• Stage Manage or Assistant Stage Manage on six to eight productions in four years.
• Upper level students will be stage managing main stage productions, which are produced under the mentorship of the production and directing faculty and staff.
• Course work in support of the B.F.A. Stage Management program includes directing, stage combat, design/technology, theater history, first aid and electives in dance and music.
• Opportunities to work on dance, opera, films, musicals and new plays.
• Students encouraged to broaden their experience through an off-campus internship.
• In addition to the coursework, students will have close personal guidance, mentoring, and evaluation from their advisor.

Career Opportunities

Ohio University Stage Management students and alumni are hired in summer jobs and full time positions at theaters like Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival, Chicago Shakespeare Theater, Radio City Christmas Spectacular, Des Moines Opera, Richmond Shakespeare Company and Summer Rep Theatre Festival in Santa Rose, CA, to name a few.  Some students chose to go directly to work in the New York, Chicago, Los Angeles or other major markets. OHIO stage management alumni pop up everywhere.