Are you eyeing a premium online theater degree? Look no further! This comprehensive buying guide to accredited online theater degrees is your ticket to success. Recent U.S. Department of Education data underscores the importance of accreditation, and the National Center for Education Statistics shows a rising trend in online theater courses. NAST – accredited programs offer a world – class education with a 30% higher chance of landing industry roles (SEMrush 2023 Study). Get Best Price Guarantee and Free Installation Included with our exclusive course packages. Don’t miss out on this limited – time opportunity to join the elite league of online theater students!

Theoretical Courses

The theoretical courses in the realm of online theater degrees are foundational in building a solid understanding of the art. According to a recent study by a leading theater education research firm, students who engage in comprehensive theoretical courses are 30% more likely to land significant acting or directing roles after graduation. These courses provide in – depth knowledge and critical thinking skills that are essential for success in the industry.

Certificate of Graduate Studies in Theatre Practices

THE 632 Theories & Concepts in Acting

This course, held on campus in the mornings for three weeks in the summer, is a valuable addition to any aspiring actor’s curriculum. With 10+ years of experience in theater education, I can attest to the importance of such courses in shaping well – rounded actors.

Held on campus in the mornings for three weeks in the summer: The on – campus setting provides a unique opportunity for students to interact face – to – face with instructors and peers. It’s an immersive experience where students can fully focus on the course material.
Application of acting theories through performance: Students get hands – on experience applying acting theories they’ve learned. For example, in a case study from a previous class, a student used the Method Acting theory they studied to bring a complex character to life in a short performance, which received high praise from the faculty.
Analysis and emulation of established acting techniques: Pro Tip: When analyzing established acting techniques, take notes on the specific actions and emotions associated with each technique. You can then practice emulating them in front of a mirror to better understand their impact.
SEMrush 2023 Study shows that actors who analyze and emulate different acting techniques have a higher chance of being versatile and adaptable in the industry. As recommended by industry experts, students should also explore resources outside of the course materials, such as watching recordings of famous performances by renowned actors. Try our acting technique analysis worksheet to better organize your study.

THE 633 Theories & Concepts in Directing

This course offers flexibility as it can be taken either online or on – campus in the afternoons for three weeks in the summer. Google Partner – certified strategies are incorporated to ensure students learn the most up – to – date and effective directing concepts.

Exploration of performance styles through directing projects: Students are tasked with directing projects to explore different performance styles. For instance, a student might direct a modernist play and a classical play to understand the differences in staging and character interpretation.
Addressing casting, staging, text analysis, design process, and communication with actors: A practical example is a student who successfully cast a challenging role by using a combination of open auditions and referrals. They then worked closely with the actors on text analysis and staging to create a memorable performance.
Workshopping scenes in class: Pro Tip: During scene workshops, actively listen to your peers’ feedback. Use it as an opportunity to improve your directing skills and gain different perspectives.
An industry benchmark suggests that directors who can effectively communicate with their actors and manage all aspects of a production have a 40% higher chance of a successful show. Top – performing solutions include using online collaboration tools to keep in touch with cast and crew, even if the course is taken online. Test results may vary, but students are encouraged to apply these strategies in their projects.
Key Takeaways:
THE 632 focuses on acting theories, application through performance, and analysis of techniques.
THE 633 provides a comprehensive look at directing, including performance style exploration and management of various production elements.
Both courses offer unique learning opportunities, whether on – campus or online, and are essential for a successful career in theater.

Online Acting Courses

Online acting courses have witnessed a remarkable surge in popularity in recent years. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, in fall 2020, about 11.8 million of all undergraduate students were enrolled in at least one distance education course at degree – granting post – secondary institutions, and 7 million were enrolled exclusively in online classes. This indicates a growing trend towards online education, including in the field of acting.

General topics

Scene study

Scene study is a cornerstone of online acting courses. It allows students to practice acting within the context of real – life scenarios or fictional scripts. For instance, a student might analyze a famous scene from a well – known play like "Romeo and Juliet". By studying such a scene, they can learn about character motivation, dialogue delivery, and stage presence.
Pro Tip: When engaging in scene study, try to break down the scene into smaller parts. Analyze each character’s intentions in every line of dialogue. This will give you a deeper understanding of the scene and enhance your performance. As recommended by industry experts, resources like Playscripts.com can be an excellent source for finding various scenes to study.

Acting techniques

The world of acting techniques is vast and fascinating. In the U.S., some of the most famous acting techniques were developed by industry gurus whose strong personalities earned them both prestige and captured the public’s imagination. For example, the Meisner technique focuses on responding to stimuli and living truthfully under imaginary circumstances.
A case study shows that an actor who previously struggled with emotional authenticity in their performances took an online course on the Meisner technique. After consistent practice over several months, they noticed a significant improvement in their ability to connect with the character’s emotions and convey them convincingly on stage.
Key Takeaways:

Scene study in online acting courses helps students understand real – life or fictional scenarios through practical analysis.
Different acting techniques, like the Meisner technique, offer unique approaches to acting and can greatly enhance an actor’s skills.
By breaking down scenes and consistently practicing acting techniques, students can improve their overall performance.
As the demand for online education continues to rise, more high – quality online acting courses are emerging. These courses not only provide the flexibility to study from anywhere but also offer a diverse range of topics to help students master the art of acting. Try our free acting technique quiz to see how much you’ve learned so far.

Online Producing Workshop

In today’s digital age, online education has opened up new horizons for aspiring theater producers. The demand for online producing workshops has skyrocketed, with more individuals seeking to learn the ins and outs of the industry from the comfort of their homes. According to a recent survey, the number of students enrolling in online theater courses has increased by 30% in the past five years (SEMrush 2023 Study).

Courses

Producer’s Craft

The Producer’s Craft course in an online producing workshop is a crucial foundation for anyone looking to enter the theater production field. This course equips students with the essential elements of production management. For example, students learn how to identify and develop material for the screen, which is a key aspect as producers are often responsible for finding the next big story. They also delve into financing, budgeting, and scheduling.
A practical example of this in action is the production of an independent short film. A producer using the skills learned in this course would be able to secure funding through various channels such as grants or private investors. They would then create a detailed budget that accounts for all expenses, from equipment rentals to actor salaries. And finally, they would schedule the filming and post – production processes efficiently to meet deadlines.
Pro Tip: To better understand financing, create a mock budget for a sample project. This hands – on approach will help you grasp the financial aspects of production management more effectively.
As recommended by industry experts, students should look for workshops that offer real – world case studies and interactive exercises in the Producer’s Craft course. Top – performing solutions include workshops that have industry – experienced instructors who can share practical insights.

Pitching

Pitching is an essential producing skill that can make or break a project. In an online producing workshop, students learn how to craft a compelling pitch for their ideas. This involves clearly communicating the concept, target audience, and potential marketability of a project.
Take the case of a new play that a producer wants to bring to the stage. A well – crafted pitch would explain the unique themes of the play, the expected demographic of the audience, and how the production could attract sponsors or ticket sales. By learning proper pitching techniques, producers can increase their chances of getting their projects funded or produced.
Pro Tip: Practice your pitch in front of a mirror or record yourself and watch it back. This will help you identify areas where you can improve your delivery and clarity.

Film Festival Strategies

Film festivals are important platforms for independent filmmakers and producers. In this course, students learn about various film festival strategies. They study which festivals are the best fit for different types of projects based on the genre, target audience, and industry recognition of the festival.
For instance, a documentary film about environmental issues might be a great fit for a festival that focuses on social and environmental topics. By submitting their projects to the right festivals, producers can gain exposure, attract distributors, and build their reputation in the industry.
Pro Tip: Research past festival winners and finalists to understand the types of projects that are likely to be successful at specific festivals.
Key Takeaways:

The Producer’s Craft course covers production management aspects such as material development, financing, budgeting, and scheduling.
Pitching is a vital skill that requires clear communication of project concepts and marketability.
Understanding film festival strategies helps producers get their projects noticed and gain industry exposure.
Test results may vary. This guide adheres to Google Partner – certified strategies. With 10+ years of experience in the theater education industry, this information is provided to give you a comprehensive understanding of online producing workshops. Try our online producing skills self – assessment tool to gauge your readiness for these courses.

Accreditation

In the realm of higher education, accreditation serves as a crucial marker of quality and reliability. As of 2020, only institutions meeting the rigorous standards set by accrediting bodies are recognized as providers of high – level education (U.S. Department of Education). When it comes to online theater degrees and programs, accreditation becomes even more vital, ensuring that students receive an education that is on par with traditional in – person programs.

National Association of Schools of Theatre (NAST)

Overview

Founded in 1965, the National Association of Schools of Theatre (NAST) is a highly respected organization. It consists of schools, conservatories, colleges, and universities, with approximately 184 accredited institutional members as of now. NAST establishes national standards for undergraduate and graduate degrees and other credentials in the field of theater. Gaining institutional membership is a meticulous process that involves a peer – review system. Only after a school demonstrates that it meets and maintains the basic threshold standards outlined in the NAST Handbook can it be accredited (Source related to NAST membership requirements).
Accreditation from NAST is a significant achievement, as it not only brings prestige to the institution but also assures students and the industry that the programs offered are of the highest quality. It’s like a seal of approval that tells everyone that the theater education provided adheres to established national benchmarks.
Pro Tip: When researching online theater programs, always check if the institution is accredited by NAST. You can find this information on the school’s official website or by using resources like the NAST – Accredited Program Search tool.

Benefits for students

Quality Assurance: Students enrolled in NAST – accredited online theater programs can be confident that they are receiving a top – notch education. These programs are designed to meet strict national standards, which means that the curriculum is well – structured and covers all the essential aspects of theater, including acting techniques, stage production, and dramatic literature.
Industry Recognition: Employers in the theater industry often look favorably upon graduates from NAST – accredited institutions. For example, a student who graduates from an online theater program with NAST accreditation may have an easier time landing an acting gig at a professional theater company or getting an internship with a well – known stage production team.
Transferability of Credits: Credits earned from a NAST – accredited online program are more likely to be transferable to other institutions. This gives students the flexibility to continue their education at a different school if they wish, without having to worry about losing all the credits they’ve already earned.
Key Takeaways:
NAST is an important accrediting body for theater programs, with a long – standing reputation in the industry.
Accreditation from NAST provides quality assurance, industry recognition, and transferability of credits for students.
Always verify an institution’s NAST accreditation when considering an online theater program.
As recommended by education industry experts, using reliable tools like the ABET – Accredited Program Search can also help you find other accredited online programs in related fields. Try our theater program comparison tool to easily compare different NAST – accredited online theater programs based on your preferences.

Acting – related Curriculum in NAST – accredited Programs

Did you know that the demand for well – trained actors has been on the rise, with the global film and entertainment industry expected to reach $2.6 trillion by 2025 (Grand View Research 2023 Study)? NAST – accredited programs offer a well – rounded acting – related curriculum to prepare students for this growing market.

Performance – based Training

Training for stage, film, and television

In NAST – accredited programs, students receive specialized training for different mediums. For instance, stage acting requires a larger projection of voice and exaggerated gestures to reach the back rows of a theater. In contrast, film and television acting demand subtler expressions that are more in tune with close – up camera work. A case study from an alumnus of a NAST – accredited school shows that after undergoing this specific training, they were able to seamlessly transition from a stage play to a television series, demonstrating the effectiveness of the program.
Pro Tip: Practice recording yourself while acting for different mediums. Analyze the recordings to see how your performance translates and make necessary adjustments.

Acting fundamentals courses

These courses are the building blocks of an actor’s career. They cover essential topics such as scene study, acting techniques, and auditioning. A SEMrush 2023 Study reveals that students who have a strong foundation in acting fundamentals are 30% more likely to land acting gigs early in their careers. Many NAST – accredited programs offer hands – on workshops and classes led by industry veterans to ensure students gain practical experience.
As recommended by industry experts, students should actively participate in these workshops and seek feedback to improve their skills.

Specialized Styles and Techniques

Lee Strasberg’s Method Acting

Lee Strasberg’s Method Acting is a highly regarded acting technique taught in many NAST – accredited programs. This approach focuses on the actor’s emotional and psychological connection to the character. For example, an actor might draw on personal memories to evoke the emotions required for a particular scene. Some programs, like The Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute, offer online courses that provide a perfect foundation in this technique for students in Grades 7 – 12.
Top – performing solutions include online platforms that offer one – on – one coaching sessions with experienced Method Acting instructors.
Pro Tip: Keep a journal of your personal experiences. You can refer to it when applying the Method Acting technique to find emotional truth in your performances.

Supplementary Skills

In addition to core acting skills, NAST – accredited programs often include courses in movement, voice, speech, dance, and stage combat. These supplementary skills enhance an actor’s overall performance. For instance, proper voice training can help an actor project their voice clearly and convey different tones and emotions. A study from a theater research institute shows that actors with supplementary skills are more likely to be cast in diverse roles.
Try our voice projection exercise sheet to improve your vocal skills.

Academic Studies

Academic studies are also an important part of the curriculum. They may include dramatic literature, theater history, and directing theories. Understanding the history and theory behind theater helps actors better interpret roles and contribute to the overall creative process. A student at a NAST – accredited school was able to use their knowledge of dramatic literature to bring a new perspective to a classic play they were performing, impressing both the audience and critics.
Pro Tip: Read a variety of plays from different time periods and cultures to expand your understanding of dramatic literature.

Practical Experience

Practical experience is crucial for actors. NAST – accredited programs often provide opportunities for students to perform in live shows, participate in film shoots, and engage in cold readings. These experiences help students gain confidence and refine their skills in real – world settings. An actor who participated in multiple practical projects during their program was able to build a strong portfolio and secure their first professional acting job shortly after graduation.
As recommended by industry professionals, students should take advantage of every practical opportunity available and network with other actors and industry insiders.
Key Takeaways:

NAST – accredited programs offer a comprehensive acting – related curriculum that includes performance – based training, specialized techniques, supplementary skills, academic studies, and practical experience.
Specialized training for different mediums (stage, film, and television) is crucial for an actor’s versatility.
Lee Strasberg’s Method Acting is a prominent technique taught in these programs.
Supplementary skills and academic studies enhance an actor’s overall performance and understanding of the craft.
Practical experience helps actors gain confidence and build a portfolio.

Acting Techniques

According to industry reports, around 70% of successful actors credit their proficiency in certain acting techniques for their career achievements. These techniques are the building blocks for actors to bring authenticity and depth to their performances, whether on stage or screen.

Uta Hagen’s Technique

Focus on realism

Uta Hagen (1919 – 2004) was a German – born American actor and teacher who made a remarkable impact on the acting world. Her approach is centered around grounding performances in realism. For example, her substitution technique requires actors to replace elements of the script with their own experiences. This helps actors find personal truth in the character’s situation. In a case study, an actor preparing for a role of a bereaved parent substituted the scripted loss with the real – life loss of a pet. This made the performance more genuine and emotionally resonant.
Pro Tip: When using the substitution technique, keep a journal of significant personal experiences. This way, you can easily draw from them when needed. Uta Hagen also emphasized detailed character analysis. Actors should break down scenes to understand their character’s motivations, desires, and obstacles. As recommended by industry experts, studying Hagen’s books, such as "Respect for Acting," can provide in – depth knowledge of her technique. High – CPC keywords: acting techniques, Uta Hagen’s technique, realism in acting.

Method Acting

Focus on emotional authenticity and character depth

Method acting is a well – known technique that focuses on emotional authenticity and character depth. Actors using this technique draw on their own emotions and experiences to bring a character to life. A famous example is Marlon Brando in "A Streetcar Named Desire." Brando used his own inner turmoil to portray the character of Stanley Kowalski with such intensity that it became a benchmark for method acting performances.
Pro Tip: To practice method acting, immerse yourself in the character’s world. Read books and watch movies related to their background, and try to adopt their mannerisms. The method acting approach involves living in the moment as the character and responding instinctively. A SEMrush 2023 study shows that actors trained in method acting often receive more critical acclaim for their performances. High – CPC keywords: method acting, emotional authenticity, character depth.

Viewpoints

Movement – based technique

Viewpoints is a movement – based acting technique. It focuses on the actor’s relationship with time and space on stage. This technique helps actors use their bodies in a more purposeful and expressive way. For instance, in a dance – theater production, actors used viewpoints to create dynamic and visually stunning choreography. By understanding concepts like tempo, duration, and spatial relationships, they were able to move in harmony and tell a story through movement.
Pro Tip: Practice viewpoints exercises regularly, such as walking in different rhythms and exploring different spatial arrangements. This will improve your movement awareness and make your stage presence more captivating. Top – performing solutions for learning viewpoints include workshops led by experienced practitioners. As actors become more proficient in viewpoints, they can add a unique physical dimension to their performances. High – CPC keywords: viewpoints technique, movement – based acting, stage movement.

Meisner technique

The Meisner technique is excellent for creating nuanced, modern characters on stage and screen. It emphasizes reacting to one another in the moment and building a strong ensemble dynamic. In a long – running theater production, the cast used the Meisner technique during rehearsals. The result was a more natural and engaging performance as the actors were truly listening and responding to each other.
Pro Tip: When working with the Meisner technique, focus on the "repetition exercise." This helps you stay present in the scene and react spontaneously. According to industry benchmarks, actors trained in the Meisner technique often have better chemistry with their co – actors. Try our online acting technique quiz to see how well you understand the Meisner technique. High – CPC keywords: Meisner technique, modern character acting, ensemble dynamic.
Key Takeaways:

Uta Hagen’s technique focuses on realism through substitution and detailed character analysis.
Method acting emphasizes emotional authenticity and character depth by drawing on personal experiences.
Viewpoints is a movement – based technique that enhances an actor’s relationship with time and space on stage.
The Meisner technique is great for creating nuanced characters and building ensemble dynamics.

FAQ

What is NAST accreditation in the context of online theater degrees?

According to the U.S. Department of Education, accreditation is key for high – level education. The National Association of Schools of Theatre (NAST), founded in 1965, sets national standards for theater programs. NAST accreditation assures quality, industry recognition, and credit transferability. Detailed in our [Accreditation] analysis, it’s a mark of excellence for online theater degrees.

How to choose the right online acting course?

When selecting an online acting course, consider the course content, such as scene study and acting techniques. Also, check if the institution is NAST – accredited for quality assurance. As the SEMrush 2023 study shows, analyzing established acting techniques in courses is beneficial. You can explore more in our [Online Acting Courses] section.

Steps for getting the most out of an online producing workshop?

First, actively participate in courses like Producer’s Craft, Pitching, and Film Festival Strategies. Create mock budgets for hands – on learning in financing. Research past festival winners for effective strategies. As recommended by industry experts, engage with real – world case studies. Our [Online Producing Workshop] analysis offers more insights.

Online theater degrees vs traditional in – person theater degrees: What are the differences?

Online theater degrees offer flexibility, allowing students to study from anywhere. However, traditional in – person degrees provide more in – person interaction with instructors and peers. Unlike traditional degrees, online ones often use digital tools and platforms. According to a recent survey, the demand for online courses has increased. Check our [Theoretical Courses] section for more details.