Program Overview
Pace University's BA in Directing prepares students for careers in theater through hands-on experience, collaboration, and the development of a distinctive artistic voice. Students receive training from professional theater practitioners in New York City and study abroad in Spain, gaining a strong foundation in directing, acting, and interdisciplinary liberal arts. The program emphasizes experimentation, risk-taking, and the cultivation of artist-creators.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Directing at Pace University's Sands College of Performing Arts is one of the few undergraduate directing programs in the United States. This program prepares students for careers in both commercial and not-for-profit theater. It emphasizes hands-on experience, collaboration, and the development of a distinctive artistic voice. Students receive training from professional theater practitioners in New York City and study abroad for a semester at the Institute of the Arts Barcelona in Sitges, Spain.
Teaching:
- The program utilizes a project-oriented approach, allowing students to work on productions and gain practical experience.
- Students are mentored in fundamental principles of directing, including analysis, concept development, rehearsal techniques, and realization.
- The curriculum includes courses in directing, acting, movement, theater history, script analysis, stage management, and more.
- Students participate in the International Performance Ensemble (I.P.E. ), where they collaborate closely with actors, designers, stage managers, and technicians.
- The program encourages experimentation with directing as an interdisciplinary form through various styles, genres, spaces, and technologies.
- The fifth semester is dedicated to study abroad at the Institute of the Arts Barcelona (IAB) in Sitges, Spain. Students complete their academic requirements while training in European theater methods and directorial approaches.
- The senior year focuses on each student's artistic goals to prepare them for a successful career.
- The culminating Directing Spotlight provides students with an opportunity to showcase their work to industry professionals who offer feedback and guidance.
Careers:
- Students have established theater companies, directed regionally and internationally, and pursued graduate studies.
Other:
- The BA in Directing is a selective and one-of-a-kind program.
- The program emphasizes the importance of collaboration and risk-taking.
- It cultivates and nurtures artist-creators.
- The head of the BA in Acting and BA in Directing programs, Adrienne Kapstein, states that the program asks students, "what do you have to say?"
Pace University
Overview:
Pace University is a private university with campuses in New York City and Westchester County, New York. It offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including degrees in business, law, arts and sciences, health professions, education, computer science, and performing arts. Pace is known for its focus on experiential learning and its strong connections to the New York City business and cultural communities.
Services Offered:
Pace University provides a variety of services to its students, including:
Academic Support:
Academic advising, tutoring, writing centers, and other resources to help students succeed in their studies.Career Services:
Career counseling, job search assistance, internship placement, and networking opportunities.Student Life:
Clubs, organizations, sports teams, and other activities to enhance the student experience.Financial Aid:
Scholarships, grants, loans, and other financial assistance options.Housing:
On-campus housing options for students at both the NYC and Westchester campuses.Library:
Access to a comprehensive library system with extensive resources for research and study.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Pace University offers a vibrant and diverse campus experience. Students can participate in a wide range of activities, including:
Clubs and Organizations:
Student-led clubs and organizations covering a variety of interests, from academics to athletics to the arts.Sports Teams:
NCAA Division II athletics programs in various sports.Performing Arts:
Opportunities to participate in theater, music, and dance programs.Campus Events:
Social events, lectures, workshops, and other activities throughout the year.Location:
The NYC campus offers easy access to the city's cultural attractions, while the Westchester campus provides a more traditional college town atmosphere.Key Reasons to Study There:
Experiential Learning:
Pace emphasizes hands-on learning through internships, research opportunities, and real-world projects.New York City Advantage:
The NYC campus provides access to a vast network of businesses, organizations, and cultural institutions.Career Outcomes:
Pace graduates have a strong track record of success in their chosen fields.Strong Alumni Network:
Pace has a large and active alumni network that provides support and mentorship to current students.Diverse Student Body:
Pace attracts students from a variety of backgrounds and cultures, creating a diverse and inclusive learning environment.Academic Programs:
Pace University offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
