When Did Acting/Drama Become a College Major?

Introduction

In the realm of higher education, the transformation of drama from a mere art form into a recognized academic discipline has a fascinating history. The journey of acting and drama evolving into a college major is both a reflection of societal changes and a testament to the dedication and vision of educators. Let's delve into the origins and evolution of drama as a college major, starting from historical roots to contemporary developments.

Historical Origins in Ancient Greece

Tracing back to around 500 BC, Ancient Greece stands as the cradle of Western drama. The ancient Greeks believed in the power of theater as a medium for educating and inspiring the masses. Their plays, often based on mythological stories, were not only a form of entertainment but also a means to explore philosophical and moral questions.

The Evolution in the United States

In the United States, the evolution of drama as a college major began much later, around the turn of the 20th century. The Carnegie Institute of Technology (now Carnegie Mellon University) played a pivotal role in this transformative process.

The Birth of the First College Drama Program

In 1914, the Carnegie Institute of Technology introduced the first college degree-granting drama program. This moment marked a significant milestone in the history of drama education, as it recognized theater as a legitimate academic field. The initial program, often referred to as “practicality”, focused on the practical aspects of theater, where students accrued credits by participating in departmental productions.

The idea of theater as a college major was not new, as there were a few pioneering educators who had worked towards this goal. Dean Hammerschlag, the first dean of the Carnegie Institute of Technology, brought in Thomas Wood Stevens from Chicago to initiate this program. While the initial model focused on practical experience, the curriculum gradually evolved to a more academic structure, offering formal course work and certification.

Spread and Growth

By the mid-20th century, the concept of a college drama major had begun to spread across the United States. Universities like the University of Iowa, under the leadership of E.C. Mabie, laid the groundwork for fully-fledged drama programs. These programs began to offer bachelor’s degrees in acting, bringing theater education to a new academic level.

The 1950s and 1960s saw a surge in the establishment of drama programs, reflecting a broader cultural shift towards valuing the educational and artistic merit of theater. By this time, students could pursue formal academic training in theater, acting, and related disciplines, paving the way for professional careers in the performing arts.

Global Perspective

While the U.S. story of drama as a college major is well-documented, it is important to note that the evolution of drama education has occurred differently in other parts of the world. In the UK, for instance, drama has been a recognized academic discipline for much longer, with universities like The Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts (RADA) dating back to the late 19th century.

Modern Challenges and Opportunities

As drama continues to evolve, modern drama programs face both challenges and opportunities. With the rise of technology and digital media, drama education must adapt to incorporate new forms of storytelling and performance. Additionally, the global pandemic has accelerated the need for flexible and hybrid learning models.

Despite these challenges, there is a growing recognition of the importance of drama education in fostering creativity, critical thinking, and social skills. Universities around the world are increasingly investing in robust drama programs, ensuring that the legacy of drama as a college major continues to grow and thrive.

Overall, the journey of acting and drama becoming a college major is a testament to the enduring power of theater as a means of expression, education, and community building. As we look to the future, the field of drama education remains at the forefront of shaping the minds and voices of the next generation.