Skip to main content Skip to footer site map

Student Blog: To BFA, or Not to BFA

What is the difference between a BA and a BFA in theatre?

Student Blog: To BFA, or Not to BFA As theatre students, we all probably thought about (or are actively thinking about) whether or not to get a BA ( Bachelor of Arts) or a BFA (Bachelors of FIne Arts) in theatre. Typically a BFA in theatre is a degree that is focused on a specific aspect like musical theatre or stage management, and a BA is more generalized and it can allow you to explore both sides of theatre.

Neither of these degrees are better or worse than the other. It really has to do with what you are wanting to do in the theatre. And I would say if you don't know what you want to do specifically than a BA in theatre can help you gain skills in all sorts of areas in the art of theatre, from performing to the technical side. It is honestly important for performers as well to gain knowledge about the tech side.

I am currently a BA student at this moment but I am thinking about potentially changing to a BFA in theatre with an emphasis in Stage Management. For me, gaining more experience in a specific area would allow me to learn more about stage management and the tech side of theatre more closely.

From what I have noticed, I think that sometimes we can see those with a BFA in musical theatre (as an example), as somehow knowing more, but at the end of the day the title of the degree doesn't matter but what you have learned and applied in your life is what truely does. So, choosing "what kind" of theatre degree is not as crucial as maybe you once thought, do you what you love, and for some a BA allows for that and for others a BFA does. Find what is right for you!



Related Stories
Student Blog: How to Manage Plans More Effectively? Photo
The spring semester has begun. College students will be busy with their work. Sometimes they are busy with their experimental reports, works or college clubs. If you have a lot of things to do like this, it can suddenly become a problem.It's about how to prioritize work and how to solve things. If things pile up more crazy, you could be in a panic. So, what are some easy ways to get things done without panic? Here are some helpful tips.

Student Blog: Spring Break In the Snow Photo
So spring break has come and gone for the majority of us, and now we're left with the memories of the last week that'll stick with us for years to come.

Student Blog: Sight Reading with a Time Crunch Photo
Someone may not be able to do their part and you may need to step in. That is the joy and horror of live productions. This happened during my last jazz performance, one of our altos couldn’t make it to the concert and I had to learn their part. Here's my guide to making sight reading a little less scary.

Student Blog: How to Get Through the Semester Photo
As I near the end of the semester and quickly approach my last semester at Pitt, I’m reflecting on my experiences and the tools that have helped me to get through college. It certainly hasn’t been the easiest experience given the global pandemic thing, but I think it has definitely made me a better person.


From This Author - Student Blogger: Grace Ellett


Student Blog: Dealing With Burnout Pt. 2Student Blog: Dealing With Burnout Pt. 2
March 6, 2023

Dealing with burnout is not enjoyable. You want to have enough energy to do what you are passionate about.

Student Blog: To BFA, or Not to BFAStudent Blog: To BFA, or Not to BFA
January 31, 2023

What is the big deal about a BA and a BFA? Is the a significant difference?

Student Blog: Academic Integrity and its BenefitsStudent Blog: Academic Integrity and its Benefits
January 29, 2023

Academic integrity may not seem like topic that is super important to read about, but is definitely ignored a lot more than it should be. Seeing how practicing integrity in a academic setting now can help you in the future with your job and in general.

Student Blog: Hello 2023!Student Blog: Hello 2023!
January 3, 2023

Taking some time to reflect on another year of school, theatre, life in general is an important thing to do. Time passes by so quickly, so cherish the big victories and the little moments.

Student Blog: Dealing With BurnoutStudent Blog: Dealing With Burnout
December 19, 2022

Burnout is not fun. But finding ways to combat it is an important step in working on what you love again, or finding a new thing that you are passionate about.