Undergraduate Major
Theatre
In the Alvernia University tradition, theatre students learn the importance of diversity of thought, faiths and cultures. Students are challenged to shape and transform the world as ethical leaders, concerned citizens and caring members of the greater community.
Career Outlook
Sought-After Skills
Today’s employers look for recent graduates with the “soft” skills of a strong liberal arts background. Theatre majors develop skills all employers want — both in and out of show business — such as:
- Creative problem-solving
- Teamwork
- Critical thinking
- Communication
- Time management
Variety of Job Options
Graduates can pursue a variety of careers, including:
- Actors
- Directors
- Designers
- Technicians
Positions outside show business could include:
- Human resources
- Public relations
- Business
Job Growth and Salary Information
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, careers in acting are expected to grow 3 percent between 2023 and 2033, about the average for all occupations. The median salary in the field is 2024 was about $48,500.
Careers in production and direction are expected to grow 5 percent, faster than the average for all occupations. The median salary in 2024 was $83,480.
Careers for broadcast, sound, and video technicians is expected to grow 1 percent. The median salary in 2024 was $56,600.
Program Overview
- Application Instructions
Through a rolling admission process, prospective undergraduate students — including first-year, transfer, and international students — may apply via the Alvernia web portal or The Common Application. To learn more about how to complete your application, please visit our application page.
- Financing Your Education
There are options to assist in financing your education and making the tuition affordable. Visit our Student Financial Services page for a detailed overview of the process, including a link to complete the FAFSA application, as well as more information about tuition, the tuition payment plan and the tuition deferment program we offer. Alvernia’s Title IV code for the FAFSA is 003233. The Office of Student Financial Services is available to help with any questions you may have. Call 610-796-8201 or email sfs@alvernia.edu.
- Accreditation Statements
Alvernia is an accredited institution and a member of the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. MSCHE is an institutional accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.
- Opportunities for Majors
Alvernia University Theatre Club
This club serves as the social and service adjunct to Alvernia Theatre – an academic Theatre program. The Theatre Club provides students with opportunities for service, activities, and a place that honors self-expression through studentoriginated projects. All of the members of the Alvernia community are invited to participate.
Alvernia Chorus
The Alvernia Chorus is the university’s choral group. Under the direction of Jennifer Michalik, the Alvernia Chorus presents a major concert each semester. Singers also have the opportunity to perform in smaller recitals, programs, and masses. Students interested in theatre performance can greatly benefit from enhancing their singing ability.
The Zephyrus
The Zephyrus is the literary magazine published every other spring. It contains original creative work — poetry, fiction, essays,
photography, artwork — by Alvernia students, staff and faculty. Department faculty serve as advisors and members of Sigma Tau
Delta act as editors.
Get to Know Your Faculty
For more information about Alvernia’s Bachelor of Arts in Theatre, contact the Admissions Office at 610-796-8269 or admissions@alvernia.edu. Or reach out directly to program director Nathan Thomas at 610-796-8343 or nathan.thomas@alvernia.edu.
Peter Rampson, M.A.
Nathan Thomas, Ph.D.
