In Marquette University’s J. William and Mary Diederich College of Communication, the study of theatre takes place within the context of a liberal arts education. A liberal education is designed to release the student from the bonds of ignorance, intolerance, parochialism and prejudice. 

Our theatre arts program provides a foundation in theatrical principles, techniques and practices that is designed to help students realize their potential not only as artists, but also as human beings. We recognize the role of theatre in social communication and the importance of fostering in our students and in ourselves scholarship, artistic expression, and expertise in the performing arts.   

The curriculum of the theatre major in the Diederich College is dedicated to the idea that the study of theatre is more than the study of cultural and literary history; it remains in an ever-evolving dialogue with society. To this end students experience the careful and disciplined integration of curriculum with actual stage production. The department believes that hands-on, realized stage experience is just as important as classroom work. The production season, where much true learning happens under the close individual guidance of department faculty, is a major part of Marquette’s pedagogical program. Collaboration in the departmental production program instills a strong professionalism grounded in respect and caring for others that students carry into the world beyond graduation.  

Undergraduate students are expected to gain practical experience in every area of theatre, and to develop all their strengths, even those previously undiscovered. Such breadth differentiates a Marquette education from a professional theatre-training program. An education at Marquette University with a major in theatre therefore combines knowledge and skill; it requires that theory be tested in practice and that skill be demonstrated in production.