Program overview

For over half a century, the theatre department at Rider has held a rich tradition of providing students with extensive training in the theatre arts. In addition to a full array of theatre coursework, six main-stage productions each year give students a wide variety of experiences and opportunities. As a theatre major at Rider, students have the choice of pursuing a design & technology or theatre-making track. Both tracks allow you the ability to add a second major or minor.

  • Design & technology majors are offered a wide range of courses in the various aspects of theatre production.
  • Theatre-Making majors use their degree to pursue careers as educators, directors, playwrights, producers and dramaturgs.
Female actress in gothic costume smiling at the camera

Program requirements

Our program prepares students for all aspects of life in the theater. You’ll learn from professionally active faculty whose backgrounds include directing and design experience, acting on Broadway, as well as commercial and voice-over work.

From passion to profession

Not all careers in theatre require you to take center stage. Rider’s well-rounded training prepares students for a wide range of careers essential to theatre production.

Common careers:

  • Stage Designer: Costumes, Lighting, Scenery, Projections and Sound
  • Community arts workers
  • Elementary or secondary education teacher
  • Stage Manager
  • Technical Director
  • Arts administration
The Yvonne Theatre in the Fine Arts building.
By forging my own path and pursuing an individualized approach to my education, my four years at Rider were enriched with personal growth, creative freedom, and academic fulfillment."
Nicole Sheehan '16

Financial aid resources

Learn more about financial aid, tuition and the various options we offer to make your college education affordable.

Contact

Theatre (B.A.)

Todd Dellinger

Department Chair, Associate Professor, Program Coordinator, Arts & Entertainment Industries Management

Department of Performing Arts

Fine Arts Building

tdellinger [at] rider.edu

609-896-5246

Academic Focus: Arts Administration

Facade of the Yvonne Theater in the background of pink blossoms