Bachelor of Creative Arts Public Forum

Theatre students, Chris Horne (left) and Adele McDowell (right) with Head of the School of Creative Arts, Dr Janet McDonald.

Creative Arts teachers, prospective students and members of the local arts community are invited to hear about exciting changes to the University of Southern Queensland's creative arts programs on Wednesday 25 June 2008.

Dean of Arts at USQ Professor Peter Goodall said the forum will focus on the Bachelor of Creative Arts (BCA), which will commence in 2009.

'As part of the forum, a panel of creative arts staff will talk through the degree structure, the specialist study opportunities that will be available and exchange ideas about the changing nature of the creative arts industries in general.'

Head of Creative Arts Dr Janet McDonald said the new program will keep specific discipline pathways and also provide an interdisciplinary environment to foster hybrid scholar-artists.  The BCA will replace five separate creative arts degrees and majors (music, visual arts, media, multimedia and theatre) from 2009.

'From the market research we have done this is a unique approach. It takes the best of what we currently offer in music, theatre, visual arts and media without losing the artistic and theoretical abilities of our discipline areas.'

Enhancing practical experience is also a feature of the new program.

'The new degree will emphasise connections with industry, so we will have more professionals working with us as tutors and mentors to give students the skills they need as entry-level practising artists,' Dr McDonald said.

Professor Goodall said the forum will also highlight artistic productions, exhibitions and events offered by the University.

'Arts events at USQ have undergone a name change and amalgamation of services,' Professor Goodall said.

'Previously operating under the name of  USQ Performance Centre, Artsworx is now responsible for the public productions of the visual and performing arts, plus managing the Ergon Energy USQ Big Band, the Shakespeare in the Park Festival and the McGregor Summer and Winter Schools.

'Artsworx will continue to deliver a range of high quality and innovative arts events as part of its charter to showcase the skills and talents of emerging artists from the Faculty of Arts and to engage with diverse communities.

'We will continue to encourage greater participation in the arts and increased educational opportunities for young people living in regional areas.'

WHAT: Bachelor of Creative Arts Public Forum
WHERE: USQ Arts Theatre, A Block
WHEN: Wednesday 25 June 2008, 5.30pm for 6.00pm start

Media contact: Amy Cass, USQ Media, +61 7 4631 2092