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Liberal Arts & Sciences Undergraduate Majors + Programs
Undergraduate Majors + Programs
Art-BA
Bachelor of Arts
Bachelor of Arts in Art students pursue a well-rounded liberal-arts program of study, and elect a second area of study (for example, marketing, journalism, or public relations) to develop alternate career options. Art majors can become art therapists, teachers, professional studio artists, graphic designers, marketing directors, medical illustrators, gallery assistants and much more.
Art-BFA
Bachelor of Fine Arts
This program of studies is designed to prepare students to work professionally in an art field or to study at the advanced level at a graduate or professional school. Students complete coursework focused on a concentrated subject area. ESU offers BFA concentrations in the following studio areas: Engraving Arts, Glass, Graphic Design, Painting, Photography and Sculpture.
Art Education (Grades PreK-12)
Bachelor of Science in Education
If you want to teach art in elementary, middle or high school, the teacher education program is available at ESU. The Department of Art partners with the department overseeing middle and secondary education. ESU excels in teacher education, as it has for over 125 years.
Art History
Minor
This 18 hour program of studies in the Department of Art is designed to enhance a baccalaureate degree program. Students may complete course work focused on a concentrated subject area. The minor in art is an enrichment program for students desiring recognition of accomplishments in the visual arts without the commitment required for a major in art.
Art-Minor
Minor
This 18 hour program of studies offered by the Department of Art is designed to enhance a baccalaureate degree program, preparing students to work professionally in a field that may benefit from expanded study in the visual arts. Students may complete course work focused on a concentrated subject area.
Biochemistry Concentration
Bachelor of Science, Concentration
ESU chemistry offers an American Chemical Society (ACS) certified degree (the best in the nation!) to equip students with an understanding of scientific discovery. Our chemistry program prepares students for advanced study and immediate employment in a variety of laboratories and other options. We offer concentrations in biochemistry, environmental chemistry, pre-pharmacy, pre-medical and pre-chemical engineering pathways.
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Bachelor of Science
Research new ways to treat disease, fight bioterrorism, improve crop production and more. Or prepare for medical school or admission to ESU’s Forensic Science Program.
Biology-BA
Bachelor of Arts
The Bachelor of Arts degree is for students desiring a broad, liberal education. The flexibility of the B.A. Biology major allows students to pursue a specific area of interest within biology or complete pre-requisite requirements for a post-Baccalaureate professional program. The second program of study provides an opportunity for students to design a program of study on the interface of two disciplines.
Biology Education-Teaching
Bachelor of Science in Education
The secondary education program in The Teachers College works in partnership with the biology department so you will be well-prepared in both biology and teacher education.
Biology-Minor
Minor
The biology minor is not intended to provide students with an in-depth study of biological sciences. A biology minor can prepare you for a variety of careers, including scientific research and editing, nutrition, agriculture and more.
Chemistry
Minor
The nature of all substances and how they interact with each other. Careers options include business, research, pharmaceutical, toxicology and education fields.
Chemistry-BA
Bachelor of Arts
Learn more about the building blocks of life and matter. The chemistry faculty at Emporia State University have a tradition of excellence that will propel you to a successful career. Career options include environmental, pharmaceutical or food laboratories.
Chemistry Education (Grades 6-12)
Bachelor of Science in Education
Gain a deep working knowledge of chemistry paired with award-winning secondary education courses to teach chemistry at the high school level and beyond.
Child Maltreatment and Family Violence
Bachelor of Science, Concentration
The concentration in Child Maltreatment and Family Violence is recommended for students interested in expanding their knowledge and education in the area of child abuse and domestic violence, and training and field experience in serving this population.
Communication-BA
Bachelor of Arts
A versatile and invaluable member of the team, communication majors fill roles in corporate communication, marketing, leadership, public relations, human resources, creative directing, lobbying and more.
Communication-BS
Bachelor of Science
A versatile and invaluable member of the team, communication majors fill roles in corporate communication, marketing, leadership, public relations, human resources, creative directing, lobbying and more.
Communication, Emerging Technology and Society
Bachelor of Science, Concentration
Students focus on the now, the emerging and the upcoming so that they can be prepared for what’s next. This concentration will take a deep dive into topics in communication and technology, including ethics, user experience, innovation and collaboration.
Communication, Emerging Technology, and Society
Bachelor of Arts, Concentration
Students focus on the now, the emerging and the upcoming so that they can be prepared for what’s next. This concentration will take a deep dive into topics in communication and technology, including ethics, user experience, innovation and collaboration.
Communication Minor-Business Focus
Minor
A minor in communication may be taken by students who have majors in other disciplines. Courses in communication are excellent preparation for students in industry, public relations, management, media, counseling, law and other professions that are heavily dependent upon good communication skills.
Communication Minor-Liberal Arts Focus
Minor
A minor in communication may be taken by students who have majors in other disciplines. Courses in communication are excellent preparation for students in industry, public relations, management, media, counseling, law and other professions that are heavily dependent upon good communication skills.
Communication, Organizational Communication
Bachelor of Arts, Concentration
This degree prepares students for careers ranging from the area of human relations to management positions in profit and nonprofit organizations. Students examine theories and develop communication skills that will enable them to become proficient in accomplishing organizational goals with others.
Correctional Services Concentration-Crime and Delinquency Studies
Crime and Delinquency Studies, Bachelor of Arts, Concentration
The concentration in correctional services will prepare our CDS majors to meet the increasing demand for correctional officers in Kansas and across the country. By completing the concentration, the students will be able to acquire the basic knowledge and skills necessary to effectively and professionally work in prisons, jails, and community corrections programs (parole and probation).
Creative Writing
Minor
Through this minor, students receive guided practice in the writing of poetry, fiction, drama, and non-fiction prose as well as an opportunity to share their work with others, in both workshops and public events, strengthening their writing and performance skills.
Crime and Delinquency Studies
Minor
In-depth academic preparation for a career in crime and delinquency. Career options include social services, government agencies, corrections, juvenile justice and many more.
Crime and Delinquency Studies-BA
Bachelor of Arts
The Bachelor of Arts degree in Crime and Delinquency Studies traditionally has been a broad-based liberal arts degree designed to provide the student with a solid foundation in Crime and Delinquency Studies and course work in a variety of other liberal arts disciplines. The Bachelor of Arts degree program is designed primarily for those students who intend to pursue an advanced degree in Crime and Delinquency Studies, Juvenile Justice or Law.
Crime and Delinquency Studies-BS
Bachelor of Science
The Bachelor of Science degree in Crime and Delinquency Studies is designed to provide a student with in-depth academic preparation in the field of Crime and Delinquency. The B.S. degree is designed primarily for those students who intend to pursue careers in Crime and Delinquency Studies, juvenile justice, law enforcement, government agencies, and other related fields, or who want more extensive preparation in the discipline of Crime and Delinquency Studies for advanced degree programs.
Critical and Cultural Communication
Bachelor of Arts
Prepares students for careers in governmental agencies, nonprofit organizations, and public advocacy groups or for graduate or professional school. Students explore the rhetorical or persuasive interpretation of communication in political, societal, and cultural contexts. Course offerings promote critical reflection on subjects such as, but not limited to, class, race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, the public sphere, and politics.
Dual Degree- Engineering ESU Bachelor of Science Mathematics
Engineering, Bachelor of Science
The dual-degree engineering program allows the student to complete all of the requirements for the degree of Bachelor of Science with a major in mathematics in three years and one summer at Emporia State University, then complete additional hours at either Kansas State University or the University of Kansas for a Bachelor of Science in engineering.
Earth Science
Minor
Gain a broad-based background in the earth sciences. Heightened environmental awareness has led need for graduates in governmental agencies, environmental consulting, petroleum exploration, education and more.
Earth & Space Science Education (Grades 6-12)
Bachelor of Science in Education
Gain a deep understanding of Earth-Space Science paired with ESU’s renowned secondary education program and become a secondary education teacher.
Ecology and Biodiversity
Bachelor of Science, Concentration
This program is appropriate for students seeking a specialized program of study in ecology and organismal biology. As a biology major at ESU, you will be exposed to the principles which underlie this science of living things. You also may engage in study leading to a more detailed understanding of the area in which you are most interested, for each of the areas is tailored to meet specific interests and needs.
Economics Minor
Minor
Economics is an excellent background for a variety of careers in business, financial institutions, public utilities and government.
Elementary Education-Distance Partnership
Bachelor of Science in Education
Emporia State has partnership programs with Butler Community College, Johnson County Community College, and Kansas City Kansas Community College, allowing students to complete the Elementary Education program without relocating.
Engineering - Chemistry
Bachelor of Science
This program is offered in conjunction with Kansas State University and the University of Kansas. It is especially appropriate for students planning to complete degrees in agricultural, civil, chemical, or petroleum engineering. To earn the B.S. degree at Emporia State, the student must satisfy all major and general education requirements prior to transferring to KSU or KU. The student will normally fulfill the requirements for the B.S. in engineering after an additional two years at either school.
English
Minor
The English minor enables students to pursue a secondary interest in literature and heighten their skills as critical readers, thinkers, and writers. These skills augment the expertise students gain in their major fields of study and strengthen their chances for success in such areas as corporate or government service, education, and communications.
English Education (Grades 6-12)
Bachelor of Science in Education
A Bachelor of Science in Education with an English teaching field prepares the student for a career in junior high and high school teaching. The secondary education program in The Teachers College works in partnership with the English program to prepare you in both language arts content and teacher education.
English Teaching-Middle Level Licensure
Bachelor of Science in Education
Gain a deep understanding of English including the written word, language, and literature. This program is paired with ESU’s revered secondary education program and will qualify you to teach at the secondary education level.
Engraving-Art
Bachelor of Fine Arts, Concentration
Using hand fabricated objects, you will go beyond traditional engraving applications. Early courses focus on becoming acclimated with the tools. It is this program's ambition to explore the conceptual as well as the technical side of engraving. This program welcomes all disciplines in an effort to combine techniques. Installation, ceramics, bones, metal, assemblage, printmaking, sculpture, painting, found objects (and more) are all invited into the lab for exploration.
Environmental Chemistry
Bachelor of Arts, Concentration
ESU chemistry offers an American Chemical Society (ACS) certified degree (the best in the nation!) to equip you with an understanding of scientific discovery. Our chemistry program prepares you for advanced study and immediate employment in a variety of laboratories and other options.
Ethnic, Gender, and Identity Studies
Major
Through the coursework for the Ethnic, Gender, and Identity Studies major, students will study multiple identities and come to understand how those identities intersect and influence one another.
Ethnic & Gender Studies
Minor
Study the historical and cultural constructions of race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, and class; explore the social and political issues associated with these categories.
Fisheries and Wildlife
Bachelor of Science, Concentration
With a long history of excellence in fisheries & wildlife biology, natural history, ecology, and organismal biology, including the study of fishes, amphibians, reptiles, birds, mammals, plants, and invertebrates, we offer outstanding opportunities for students to specialize in fisheries & wildlife, natural resource management, and wildlife law enforcement. ESU Fisheries & Wildlife Track students conduct research in fisheries and wildlife topics and train for careers in natural resources conservation.
General Studies
Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies
This program is designed specifically for students who have completed a significant amount of college credit with a desire to finish their Bachelor's degrees for job advancement, continued studies, or personal satisfaction. In this flexible on-campus or online program, you take the classes you are interested in and expand your knowledge in multiple areas of study while completing your degree requirements in a timely fashion.
Geospatial Analysis
Minor
Geospatial analysis is used to solve practical and scientific problems of the world - conduct coastal and geological surveys, evaluate natural resources, civil engineering, marketing analysis.
Glass Forming-Art
Bachelor of Fine Arts, Concentration
This program is designed to prepare students to work professionally the glass forming field or to study at the advanced level at a graduate or professional school. ESU has a dedicated glass studio available for student use and brings in multiple visiting artists each year for students to work with. In addition, the Glass Guild Blowout is hosted on campus every year, which brings in visiting artists and the public.
Graphic Design-Art
Bachelor of Fine Arts, Concentration
Students are prepared for the field of graphic design through courses covering print and digital delivery methods. Emphasis is placed on the development of a strong technical foundation as well as developing an individual visual vocabulary to solve real-world design challenges.
Healthcare-Biology
Bachelor of Science, Concentration
This program of study is most appropriate for students wishing to prepare for careers in the health-related professions (e.g. medicine, dentistry, optometry, medical technology, pharmacy, physical therapy, physician’s assistant or veterinary medicine). These programs will require post-baccalaureate training at another institution. The Healthcare Concentration will provide the necessary pre-requisites for acceptance into these schools.
History
Minor
Dive deep into areas of history, specializing in a specific area of interest. Career options include community education, museums, foreign service agent for the government, consultant, education.
History - BA
Bachelor of Arts
Dive deep into areas of history, specializing in a specific area of interest. Career options include community education, museums, foreign service agent for the government, consultant, education.
History - BS
Bachelor of Science
Dive deep into areas of history, specializing in a specific area of interest. Career options include community education, museums, archivist and nonprofit management, consultant, education.
History/Government: Social Studies Education (Grades 6-12)
Bachelor of Science in Education
Gain deep under of various parts of history and the social sciences, paired with ESU’s renowned education program to teach history/social studies at the secondary education level (grades 6-12).
Interdisciplinary Studies
Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies
The Interdisciplinary Studies major is a flexible program for motivated students looking to engage with their college education on a fundamental level. Interdisciplinary Studies students take courses from multiple areas of study throughout the University and design degrees that fit their individual needs, both academically and professionally.
Leadership Communication
Bachelor of Arts, Concentration
Prepares students to meet personal and professional goals by acquiring communication competence to lead effectively in politics, law, business, and community. Students will examine theories and develops skills that allow them to practice leadership. Course offerings expose students to leadership in diverse settings, group experiences and conflict management.
Legal Studies
Minor
The Legal Studies Minor makes the Pre-law curriculum available to students who are not Political Science majors. It is excellent preparation for Law school and features a unique Introduction to Law course taught by a third-year student: the only such course in the state.
Mathematics-BA
Bachelor of Arts
Upon graduation, this student will be extremely well prepared to pursue a graduate degree in mathematics or a related area, or to enter a job situation requiring versatility rather than specialization.
Mathematics-BS
Bachelor of Science
The Bachelor of Science degree with a major in mathematics is recommended for the student desiring considerable specialization in mathematics. Courses selected according to the student's objective will prepare him/her for employment as a mathematician in industry or government, in the fields of science, engineering, computers, statistics, business, economics and actuarial science.
Mathematics-Statistics
Bachelor of Science, Concentration
For any student wanting to enter a career with technology or to pursue graduate studies in statistics, the mathematics major with a concentration in statistics is a perfect foundation.
Microbial and Cellular Biology
Bachelor of Science, Concentration
This program is appropriate for students seeking a specialized program of study in microbiology and/or cellular biology.
Music
Bachelor of Arts
Conservatory quality training for vocal and instrumental music at a public regional university prepares students to teach, perform and enjoy music as a career.
Music Education: Instrumental/Vocal (Grades PreK-12)
Bachelor of Music, Concentration
The Bachelor of Music with a music education concentration prepares the student to teach PreK-12 music. In teaching children and young adults, you teach not only music, but confidence, perseverance and dedication, skills needed for a successful adult life.
Music Minor
Minor
The undergraduate with an interest in music can select one of two music minors: Plan I- Liberal Arts Track (BA); Plan II -Professional Track (BM).
Music Performance
Bachelor of Music, Concentration
Concentration in Music Performance is designed for advanced study of primary instrument, along with courses in music history, music theory, and introductory research.
Nursing
Bachelor of Science
Nurses are in high-demand, graduates are eligible to take the national licensure examination for registered nursing (NCLEX-RN) to become registered nurses.
Organizational Communication
Bachelor of Arts, Concentration
Prepares students for careers ranging from the area of human relations to management positions in profit and nonprofit organizations. Students examine theories and develop communication skills that will enable them to become proficient in accomplishing organizational goals with others. Course offerings expose students to techniques for training and developing employees, methods for managing conflict, and strategies for promoting effective communication in organizations.
Painting-Art
Bachelor of Fine Arts, Concentration
Students dive deep into researching other painters’ methods and motivations from the past and present, while creating a body of work inspired by historically significant painters. Projects in Painting and Advanced Painting students narrow their focus while working to develop a personal body of work. In addition to the required painting classes, additional classes are occasionally offered to broaden students’ painting experiences including, Figure Painting, Watercolor, Mural Painting, Independent Study in Painting, and Internship in Painting.
Photography-Art
Bachelor of Fine Arts, Concentration
The photography area at ESU introduces students to black and white darkroom, digital, non-silver processes, 35mm SLR and DSLR cameras, medium format and large format view cameras, and studio lighting. Emphasis is placed on the development of technical foundation, content, creativity, and individual artistic identity. In addition to explorations of the medium through various technical approaches, the history of photography and building a professional resume through exhibition, publication, and scholarship is underscored.
Physical Science
Minor
The study of inanimate natural objects, a minor in physical science includes courses from each of the three subject areas - chemistry, earth science and physics.
Physics Education (Grades 6-12)
Bachelor of Science in Education
Our program is built on a rich heritage of nationally recognized teacher education to prepare chemistry, earth-space science and physics teachers for the 21st century. Our program equips teacher candidates for grades 6-12 to be competitive and marketable to work nationwide and enable them to get a job before they graduate.
Political Science
Minor
Study of legislative, executive and judicial institutions at the national, state and local levels.
Political Science - BA
Bachelor of Arts
Study of legislative, executive and judicial institutions at the national, state and local levels. Alumni find jobs in government relations, law, state and local government offices, and in the for-profit and nonprofit sectors.
Political Science - BS
Bachelor of Science
Study of legislative, executive and judicial institutions at the national, state and local levels. Alumni find jobs in government relations, law, state and local government offices, and in the for-profit and nonprofit sectors.
Pre-Agriculture
Pre Professional Program
Our Pre-Agriculture program will provide you with several options for a career, ranging from animal science to resource management.
Pre-Art Therapy
Pre Professional Program
The Pre-Art Therapy Preparation curriculum track includes a second area of study in psychology. This course of study has been designed to prepare students for admittance to masters graduate programs in Art Therapy.
Pre-Chiropractic Medicine
Pre Professional Program
A Dual Degree Program has been articulated between Emporia State University and Cleveland Chiropractic College, whereby a student takes prescribed courses at ESU, then takes courses for three years at Cleveland. Certain courses are transferred back to ESU, enabling the student to earn a BA degree in Chemistry from ESU and a Doctor of Chiropractic Medicine degree from Cleveland Chiropractic.
Pre-Dentistry
Pre Professional Program
ESU offers a variety of programs that prepare students for dental school. The specific curriculum will be dependent upon the schools of dentistry to which the students may wish to apply.
Pre-Engineering-Intent to transfer to Kansas State University
Pre Professional Program
Specific programs have been developed for students planning to transfer to Kansas State University, the University of Kansas or Wichita State University after spending two years at Emporia State. Students planning to transfer to an out-of-state engineering school should work out programs of study with their advisors.
Pre-Engineering-Intent to Transfer to University of Kansas
Pre Professional Program
Specific programs have been developed for students planning to transfer to Kansas State University, the University of Kansas or Wichita State University after spending two years at Emporia State. Students planning to transfer to an out-of-state engineering school should work out programs of study with their advisors.
Pre-Engineering-Intent to Transfer to Wichita State University
Pre Professional Program
Specific programs have been developed for students planning to transfer to Kansas State University, the University of Kansas or Wichita State University after spending two years at Emporia State. Students planning to transfer to an out-of-state engineering school should work out programs of study with their advisors.
Pre-Law
Pre Professional Program
Emporia State is the only institution in Kansas that offers senior pre-law students the opportunity to take a special orientation course on what to expect in law school. Emporia State pre-law graduates have been accepted at outstanding law schools throughout the country and are now practicing in a variety of fields as lawyers and judges.
Pre-Medical
Pre Professional Program
Pre-medical students are advised to select a major that best matches their interests and fulfills the entrance requirements for medical school. In addition to a strong GPA in the program of study, students must score well on the nationally administered Medical College Admissions Test.
Pre-Medical Technology
Pre Professional Program
Students interested in careers in medical technology or clinical laboratory science are advised to pursue the Bachelor of Science in Biology with a concentration in Microbial and Cellular Biology or Healthcare. After completing the requirements for this degree the student must apply for admission to an AMA accredited School for clinical training.
Pre-Optometry
Pre Professional Program
This program prepares students for optometry school. All students must contact the optometry school of their choice before applying to have the latest prerequisites. Most optometry schools recommend a major in one of the sciences. A major in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology or a major in Biology with a concentration in Healthcare are recommended.
Pre-Pharmacy Program
Pre Professional Program
Under this program, students will receive a BA in Chemistry from Emporia State University and a PharmD from an accredited pharmacy school. The program consists of up to 101 credit hours at ESU pending requirements met by substitutions or demonstrated proficiencies.
Pre-Physical Therapy (Biology)
Pre Professional Program
The physical therapy professional (clinical) training programs at KUMC and WSU are both Doctor of Physical Therapy degree programs. A student must have a bachelor’s degree for admission. Therefore, a student interested in applying to these programs should pursue requirements for a degree at ESU as well as pre-physical therapy course requirements. Students are encouraged to choose a major in Biology with a concentration in Healthcare. The courses are required for admission to professional physical therapy programs at the University of Kansas Medical Center (KUMC) and Wichita State University (WSU).
Pre-Veterinary
Pre Professional Program
This pre-professional program prepares students for application to veterinary school.
Public Administration
Minor
Public Administration students have the opportunity to work in practicums with local and state offices. Political leadership students complete internships in Washington DC, Topeka, and elsewhere, and these opportunities are available to other students as well. Political leadership students may also apply to our accelerated Master’s program, a partnership with another university.
Public Relations
Concentration
Students learn to balance communication theory, research, and application to prepare to manage public relations programs of public and private organizations. Course offerings emphasize writing, critical thinking, creative problem solving, plan implementation and evaluation.
Science Education (Grades 5-8)
Bachelor of Science in Education
Our program is built on a rich heritage of nationally recognized teacher education to prepare chemistry, earth-space science and physics teachers for the 21st century. Our program offers students a quality preparation in science content, research-based best practices, and effective instructional strategies. Students will be ready to embrace the next generation science standards (NGSS) through clinical teaching and community service.
Sociology
Minor
Deepen your understanding of society with minor in Sociology and become an agent of social change with a minor in sociology.
Sociology-BA
Bachelor of Arts
Deepen your understanding of society with a bachelor's degree in Sociology and become an agent of social change. Graduates can go into careers such as Case Management, Family Services, Adoption Officer, Victim Advocate, Data Analyst, Housing Specialist, Immigration Specialist, and more.
Sociology-BS
Bachelor of Science
This Bachelor of Science degree is designed primarily for those students who intend to pursue careers in social service, law enforcement, criminal justice, government agencies, and other related fields, or who want more extensive preparation in the discipline of sociology for advanced degree programs.
Spanish Education (Grades PreK-12)
Bachelor of Science in Education
Language skills necessary to function effectively in the environment native to the language, paired with ESU’s exceptional teaching preparation program to teach Spanish in grades PreK-12.
Spanish Minor
Minor
The Modern Languages minor in Spanish is designed to complement the student’s primary area of study. The coursework allows the student to develop an intermediate proficiency in Spanish by focusing on basic conversational skills for daily conversations and travel. Some classes such as the Spanish for Health Professionals and the Spanish in the Professions courses are designed to complement the nursing, business, and teacher preparation coursework, among many other areas of study.
Spanish-Modern Languages
Bachelor of Arts
Pursuing this degree prepares students for the bilingual reality in which the US is the second largest Spanish Speaking country and is on target to be the largest Spanish speaking country by 2050. With 600 million Spanish Speakers worldwide and over 50 million Spanish Speakers in the US, Spanish is the world’s fourth most spoken language.
Theatre
Minor
Courses in theatre are excellent supplements for students planning careers in education, business, psychology, counseling, public relations, communication, law, and other fields that require the ability to work exceptionally well with other people. The theatre minor is an appropriate choice for students in the humanities or fine arts who wish to deepen their understanding of their major fields, as well as science majors who are seeking a breadth of undergraduate experiences.
Theatre-BA
Bachelor of Arts
The degree Bachelor of Arts with a major in Theatre is a rigorous general education experience as well as an introduction to central elements of theatre performance, production, design, and scholarship. Majors are required to contribute to all productions, either as actors or as members of the crew, provided they meet academic eligibility standards as established by the department.
Theatre-BFA
Bachelor of Fine Arts
Students will be prepared to pursue careers in acting, script, costuming and theatre productions. Majors are required to audition for productions and contribute to all productions, either in the cast or on a crew, provided they meet academic eligibility standards as established by the department.