Does having a B.F.A. degree over a B.A. in acting really make a difference?

Answer 1

Having taught in both BA and BFA programs, I would suggest that the short answer to your question is "No."

In the context of a liberal arts education/university, a BFA cuts into a rather uncomfortable middle ground. Yes, it offers students the opportunity to get a bit more concentration in their area of chief interest. BUT -- and this is key -- it doesn't get students off the hook with regard to their general education requirements. You STILL have to fulfill all of those course requirements in outside disciplines to qualify for your degree.

The worst thing I can say about BFA programs (and I taught in what I believe was a very good one!) is that students tend to leave them believing that theiri training as theatre artists is COMPLETE. This is unfortunate, and is very rarely true.

In my opinion, the best that ANY undergraduate theatre program can do for a would-be actor is to persuade him/her to go on for additional training (ideally, in a quality MFA/conservatory program).

Answer 2

I have a BFA, among other various degrees and with no offense to answer number one, IT allows that even an ACTOR can "GET IT" as far as the total aspect of any production is concerned. We also LEARN as we TEACH.

The issue is more about How you acquire knowledge, attain wisdom, apply learning.

ACTING is just that, and don't we all? ON many levels, subtly, non professionally?

Steven Wolf

I will tell you this however. Upon graduation, as you exit any Higher education facility, you can head for the nearest trash bin and deposit the BIG GRAY books, and get on with the business of any passion you might have awakened or absorbed.

Answer 3

The BFA is the "better" degree. The degree requires more credits, takes longer. But I think people look at it better than a BA. If you want to go on to get your Master's eventually, BFA. However, if you're at a ok university where you're not happy, get the BA and transfer somewhere else.

Answer 4

As others have pointed out, a BFA carries a little more clout. But to be completely honest once you're out of school and you've started working (unless you're going into education) nobody is going to be terribly interested in what degree you have or what school you've attended. It's all about what you've done recently and what you do in the audition.

Answer 5

I guess that really depends on what you want to do? If you want to act, then no. if you want to teach or be an instructor then the BFA would probably be more helpful...