By The Editorial Board
Over the summer, Baylor announced they were lifting the Creative Arts Experience 12-event requirement. Creative Arts Experiences, or CAE, were a 12-credit requirement added to each degree plan. Students could earn these credits by attending things such as plays, symphonies or film showings.
This change was met with differing perspectives — some people embraced it, while others wondered what this meant for the arts. Plays, art exhibits, musicals, film and literature events were often attended because of the necessity for graduation. With this gone, what would happen to the creative environments at Baylor?
Despite not being required, Creative Arts Experiences remain invaluable to a well-rounded education.
And as it turns out, students will still attend these events.
Baylor Theater’s season opened with “Sense & Sensibility” earlier this month and sold out every show. Their upcoming show, “Earth & Sky,” has sold out all six showings prior to opening day on Oct. 20.
In a world where a literacy crisis is becoming increasingly concerning, engaging with the arts benefits the individual and their greater community.
Additionally, a Sept. 2025 piece published by the American Psychological Association showed that interacting with art and practicing creativity positively impacts one’s mental, physical and emotional health. Studies show that “Just 30 minutes of active arts activities daily may lower anxiety and depression and increase life satisfaction.”
Consuming art can help with burnout, overwhelm or loneliness — which are common among college students.
Baylor still offers many opportunities to engage in Creative Arts Experiences and students should continue to take advantage of these.
Attend a play with a group of friends. Walk through the Martin Museum of Art and study history through the exhibits on display or view the student artwork modeled in the hallways of the Hooper-Schaefer Fine Arts Center or between Moody and Jones Libraries. Go to a writer Q&A or look into the film viewings hosted around campus. Check out upcoming music performances and show your support for other students’ accomplishments.
People have expressed emotions, told stories and documented history through art for years and years. It has a profound impact on mental well-being, and it strengthens community and brings people together. Oftentimes, these Creative Arts Experiences are put on by students or showcase their work, and participating in these events supports the student body in doing things they study and love.
Baylor students should continue to seek these experiences out, as they are invaluable to personal development and have become even more special now that they are not a requirement.
