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PuppetryMajor

Puppetry course work includes intensive study in children’s theatre, the practice of puppetry as a theatrical art form, and educational and creative dramatic activity as methods of learning and self-development for children.

By the numbers2

One of only two such programs in the U.S.

Overview

What is Puppetry at WVU like?

Description

The BFA in Puppetry includes intensive study in children’s theatre, the practice of puppetry as a theatrical art form, and educational and creative dramatic activity as methods of learning and self-development for children.

In addition to a broad-based curriculum in theatre studies, students work under the direction of a faculty member to operate a complete puppetry theatre with comprehensive study in a variety of construction, manipulation, historical study and performance techniques. The School’s Puppet Mobile tours the region while children’s theatre productions provide hands-on experience and performance opportunities.

All interested students must apply to the University and audition for the School of Theatre and Dance for acceptance.

Puppetry program highlights:

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At a Glance

Next Steps

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Fast Facts

What makes Puppetry at WVU unique?

Research and Academic Opportunities

For 40 years, the WVU Puppet Mobile has been dedicated to bringing live puppet performances and educational outreach to audiences around the state of West Virginia. All shows are performed by WVU students and staff.

Living-Learning Communities (LLCs)

Live, study and pursue outside-the-classroom learning in a residence hall community that shares your interests:

Transfer Articulation Agreements

To simplify the transfer process, we have formal agreements with certain institutions. These agreements outline the courses you should take to prepare for transferring to WVU. Review the full list of transfer articulation agreements to see if your institution is listed.

Professional Organizations

Network with professionals in your field as a student member of:

Careers

How does this degree prepare students for a career?

Students prepare as performers and entrepreneurs in theatre, puppetry and film. Past graduates have founded theatre companies, written and starred in their own films and web series and are dedicated to introducing new voices and concepts into their mediums.

Career opportunities include working as professional performers in the television, film and entertainment industries. Graduates may also seek careers in puppet design and fabrication.

Possible Careers

Wondering what you can do with a degree from WVU's Puppetry major? Check out these ideas from WVU Career Services and the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). A median salary is the midpoint of what people typically earn—half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.

This page includes information from O*NET OnLine by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license.

Employers

Graduates from this major have gone to work at:

Courses

What are the courses like in Puppetry at WVU?

Plan of Study

Check out a program overview, learning goals, course descriptions and suggested plan of study for WVU's Puppetry major.

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Popular Courses

THET 225:
Introduction to Stage Design 1

Study elements/principles of two/three dimensional design and application to scenery, lighting and costume design. Emphasis on creative analysis and communication using techniques in drawing, painting, and model making.

THET 226:
Introduction to Stage Design 2

Experience applying elements/principles of two/three dimensional design to study of scenery, lighting, and costume design. Studio course focusing on color theory, painting and finishing techniques in model making.

THET 375:
Puppet Construction

This studio class focuses on puppetry through the study of basic mechanical systems, printing, sculpting, sewing and finishing techniques.

THET 461:
Creative Dramatics

Study and practice of creative drama for theatre education or classroom/curriculum use. Instructional methods for drama techniques and practical activities are stressed.

THET 462:
Puppetry

Comprehensive study of puppetry as a theatrical form. Construction, manipulation, and production methods for adult and youth audiences are highlighted.

THET 464:
Children's Theatre

Study of theatre for child audiences. Writing, acting, designing, directing and producing plays with detailed analysis of scripts and children as audience members. (Field trip required.)

Capstone Projects

Before graduating, all undergraduates in this major complete an academic project (or "capstone") to demonstrate their research, communication and critical thinking skills.

Recent capstone projects have involved:

Cost and Aid

How much does Puppetry at WVU cost? And how can you save?

Tuition and Fees

Estimated rates are available on our tuition website. Anyone who is not a current West Virginia resident, including international students, will be charged non-resident rates.

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Scholarships

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Net Price Calculator

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Ways to Save

Here are a few ways for you to save on the cost of attending WVU in addition to university scholarships.

Ohio Tuition Reciprocity

As the result of a special agreement, students from Ohio who are fully admitted to Puppetry can enroll at WVU and pay in-state tuition rates. Students must be admitted to both the University and this major.

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Transfer Articulation Agreements

To simplify the transfer process, we have formal agreements with certain institutions. These agreements outline the courses you should take to prepare for transferring to WVU.

Review the full list of transfer articulation agreements to see if your institution is listed.

Learn How to Transfer Course Credits

Requirements

What are the requirements to apply for Puppetry at WVU?

To be admitted to WVU's Puppetry major, you must meet WVU's first-time freshman admission requirements for the 2024-25 academic year. Interested in transferring? Review the transfer admission requirements.

Related Majors and Minors

What other options does WVU have?

What minors could I consider?

Related Pathways

What majors share similar career interests with this major at WVU?

Next Steps

I like this major. What are the next steps?

Apply Now

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Request Information

Want to know more about Puppetry at WVU? Fill out the Request Information form to receive more information about the program and life at WVU.

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