Online Colleges that Offer Theatre and Communication Degrees: How to Choose

Theatre degree programs are not normally available online, though communications degrees may be available in fully-online form at a number of different levels. Theatre and communication students may choose one of many different careers due to the multi-purpose nature of a communication degree.

How to Choose an Online School for Theatre and Communication

Program Availability

Degrees that combine theatre and communications are rare even in traditional in-person formats. Online degrees in both theatre and communications may not exist at all. Even fully-online degrees in theatre can't normally be found. This is likely because of the interactive nature of the theatre discipline and the interpersonal aspects to such a degree program. Communication degree programs can often be found in fully-online form at several degree levels, primarily bachelor's and master's programs.

Schedule and Time Requirements

Normally, online degree programs in communications are designed as flexible degree options for working adults, whether they function as entry-level degrees for a given career or as a pathway to advancement, online bachelor's and master's degrees in communication normally do not require students to attend class at any given time or turn in assignments on a strict schedule.
Instead, classes may be accessed 24 hours a day and assignments and tests are normally due on a single day near the end of the class. This may not be the case for all programs, as some online programs may be designed for accelerated completion. Students should be sure that a degree fits their needs before enrolling.

Online Program Options for Theatre and Communication

Bachelor of Arts in Communication

An online bachelor's degree in communication is intended for students who may enter a wide variety of fields. Common courses offered for such a degree include research methods, rhetorical criticism and intercultural communication. Degrees at this level, though still normally designed with flexible schedules and intended for working adults, are more likely to allow students to complete an accelerated program to finish their degree early if they so choose.

Master of Arts in Communication

A master's degree in communication is similar to a bachelor's degree in communication, but is more likely to have leadership-oriented classes. Common courses include rhetoric, crisis communication, and the theory of argument. Master's degree programs in communication are usually designed for flexibility, allowing students to tailor the degree program to their own educational and professional needs.