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The Department of Communication and Theatre Arts houses degree programs in Communication and Theatre. These programs combine theory and practice to prepare students for professional adaptability in a range of careers as well as advanced studies in both the practice and scholarship of Theatre and Communication arts. In the Theatre program students practice their craft on our stages while creating and designing backstage. In the Communication program students can pursue concentrations in relational Communication, corporate Communication, strategic Communication, argument and speech, or activism and advocacy. They may also practice those skills in the University Forensics (Speech & Debate) Team and the Truman Media Network, including press, audio, and video platforms.

Academic Programs

Multidimensional Learning Environment

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Get your Masters in as little as 5 years!

Get a Masters of Art in Education with a Specialty Area in Theatre Arts with our five year program. Complete your undergraduate in four years and your graduate in one.

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Theatrical Productions

Our theatre program emphasizes practical experience at every level of production. Students perform, design, direct, choreograph, construct, circuit, paint, sew, write plays, research, and teach.

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Student Media

Taking part in student media gives you practical experience and helps with connecting class concepts. Write stories and columns for The Index newspaper, host talk shows at the KTRM radio station, and produce broadcasts at the TV station.

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Student Organizations

Students in the Communication and Theatre programs may take part in multiple student groups at Truman to fit your personal and professional interests. From national honor societies to educational and promotional clubs, you can find your place in on-campus communication and theatre organizations.

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Scholarships and Jobs

Communication and Theatre students can apply for financial aid through scholarships and student employment opportunities through the department. Incoming first-year and transfer students can apply for service and major-specific Foundation scholarships if competing on the Forensics Team or assisting with costuming, scenery, sound, or publicity for theatrical productions. Internships and work study are also available!

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Communication & Theatre Facilities

Truman's Communication facilities offer resources for real-life experiences including radio and television studios, Multimedia News Center, and the Student Media Center. The Theatre program resides in Ophelia Parrish and houses the 240-seat Severens Theater and the Black Box Theater that seats 100 in a variety of configurations. Students learn theatrical crafts in our scenic studio, costume studio, acting lab, design lab, dressing rooms, make-up room, and green room

Truman Theatre in Action

Watch the process of putting "She Kills Monsters" on the stage.