Earning an advanced education degree in curriculum and instruction in the theatre space provides graduates with a comprehensive understanding of both education and theatre. This unique blend of knowledge and skills opens a variety of rewarding career opportunities that can include theatre instructor, community theatre director/instructor, drama therapist, theatre pedagogy director and instructional coordinator.
For those who want to work in the theatre education field, an online Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Curriculum and Instruction (C&I) – Theatre Pedagogy from Southeastern Oklahoma State University can develop the ability to express ideas and make human connections through the study of character development. Students in this online program will focus on methodologies to teach and work with learners both inside and outside the classroom.
Roles Graduates of the Online Degree Program Can Pursue
According to Brainstorm Productions, theatre education gives students a “cognitive playground”: a sense of community, sensory stimulation, creativity, emotional safety and more. It continues: “theatre in education is the use of theatre for purposes beyond entertainment. It involves trained actors/educators performing theatre for students or communities with the intention of changing knowledge, attitudes and behavior.” Educators in this field have the opportunity to attract students and keep them involved and engaged.
Below are some options for graduates with an M.Ed. in C&I – Theatre Pedagogy:
- Theatre instructor. Theatre instructors are critical in shaping the next generation of performing arts professionals. They can work in schools, colleges and universities. They teach classes in theatre history, script analysis, acting techniques and other related subjects. Some responsibilities include conducting workshops, designing lesson plans, evaluating performances and directing student productions. According to the S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), postsecondary teachers have an average salary of $79,640 annually.
- Community theatre director/instructor. Graduates can also find fulfilling careers in community theatre, where they can engage with diverse populations and foster creativity within their communities. Community theatre directors/instructors oversee all aspects of the productions, from auditions to the final performance. They collaborate with actors, stage managers and technical teams to ensure successful and impactful productions. The average salary for a community theatre director/instructor is listed on ZipRecruiter.com at $59,030 per year.
- Drama therapist. Drama therapy combines theatre techniques with psychological principles to promote personal growth and healing. Drama therapists work in a range of settings, such as hospitals, rehabilitation centers and mental health clinics. Some responsibilities include leading group sessions, designing therapeutic programs and evaluating progress. Depending on the region and institution, further credentials may be required. Drama therapists can earn an average of $66,983 per year.
- Instructional Coordinator. Graduates can also shine as instructional coordinators. These professionals work in schools and provide guidance and support to teachers, curriculum developers and school leaders. They develop instructional materials, design and revise curricula, and provide professional development opportunities for educators. According to the S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, instructional coordinators earn $63,740 per year on average.
While the average yearly salaries can vary depending on important factors, such as experience level and location, these careers can provide worthwhile work and opportunities for professional and personal growth. Graduates with a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction in theatre pedagogy are well-positioned to significantly impact theatre education and beyond by enriching the lives of individuals and communities through the power of the performing arts.
About Southeastern Oklahoma State University’s Online Program
Students in this 100% online degree program will study topics in acting theory, theatre production, classical theatre and approaches to directing. Graduates will know the structure of live high school theatrical productions and principles to strengthen theatre practices artistically and economically, the techniques and theory in American Realism, contemporary theatre and the director’s role in 19th and 20th century theatre productions.
Learn more about Southeastern Oklahoma State University’s online Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction – Theatre Pedagogy program.