Individuals eager to share their love of theatre in an educational setting can unlock many fascinating career paths with the right degree. An online Master of Education in Curriculum & Instruction with an emphasis in Theatre Pedagogy from Southeastern Oklahoma State University will “advance your knowledge of theatre topics while developing practical applications in teaching.” This accredited program turns theatre enthusiasts into experts while preparing them for a fulfilling career in the dramatic arts. In as few as 12 months, motivated individuals could land a starring role in the blockbuster career of their dreams.
Here are some of the dynamic career options for recent graduates.
Drama Teacher (average yearly salary: $61,600)
In addition to directing school plays, drama or theatre arts teachers instruct their students on the history of drama, the origins of plays their classes perform, and the various methods or acting styles. They also serve as mentors to students attempting to write their own dramatic works, and they typically manage all facets of theatrical productions, from casting to behind-the-scenes management. Standard teaching duties — like creating lesson plans, grading assignments, and ensuring students meet state requirements — are also part of a drama teacher’s day-to-day life.
Theatre Arts Curriculum Specialist (average yearly salary: $62,290)
Curriculum specialists play an essential role in determining how a subject or discipline is taught. They constantly assess the current curriculum of a school or district to determine whether it is effective. When needed, they will suggest new teaching strategies or educational materials. Curriculum specialists also organize training or workshops to introduce any new theories or content. Additionally, they mentor teachers on effectively incorporating curriculum in the classroom so students will meet the appropriate educational standards. While somewhat removed from casting or directing plays, curriculum specialists impact how their schools approach arts education.
Drama Therapist (average yearly salary: $50,767)
“Drama therapy uses play, embodiment, projection, role, story, metaphor, empathy, distancing, witnessing, performance, and improvisation to help people make meaningful change.” The process begins with a drama therapist carefully assessing a patient’s goals or needs and determining the most effective methods for serving that particular client. Drama therapy has proven useful for people of various ages and backgrounds as they seek help with the following:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Addiction
- Grief
- Relationship Building
- Conflict Resolution
A variety of organizations could benefit from the expertise of highly trained drama therapists. Some of the most common career opportunities exist in the following settings:
- Schools
- Mental Health Clinics
- Substance Abuse Treatment Centers
- Community Centers
- Adult Care Facilities
- Corporations
- Correctional Facilities
Theatre Director (average yearly salary: $74,420)
Theatre Directors can be found anywhere from community theatres to opera houses. This is an exciting but demanding job that requires true devotion to the world of performing arts. Theatre directors have a hand in every aspect of production. They are frequently in charge of the auditioning and casting process. Taking the lead on organizing rehearsals and promoting upcoming performances may be part of their responsibilities, too. A theatre director’s job duties including reading and researching a variety of plays to determine which should be added to the performance schedule. As industry linchpins, theatre directors are creative problem solvers capable of driving an entire production toward a successful debut.
Prospective students hoping to build careers around their love of theatre should strongly consider an online graduate degree. In as few as 12 months, and for less than $8,000, you could be center stage working in the dramatic arts.
Learn more about Southeastern Oklahoma State University’s Master of Education in Curriculum & Instruction – Theatre Pedagogy online program.