Since the 1950s, Santa Monica College has developed a far-reaching reputation for
producing top talent across Theatre Arts and Technical Theatre — from the stage to
the silver screen and beyond. With easy access to Hollywood and Burbank, you are sure
to thrive as you build creative and technical skills.
Our students have been accepted at NYU, Columbia University, and other prestigious
institutions nationally and abroad. Eight of our students were accepted to Juilliard
with 2 waitlisted over 8 consecutive years — with only 20 acceptances nationwide per
year.
As a performance student, you will study a range of acting styles, from Modern Realism
and Shakespeare to Greek, Commedia dell'arte, Comedy of Manners, Brecht, Beckett,
and more. We offer comprehensive training in Musical Theatre performance, and coach
you in Voice and Stage Movement to provide you with well-rounded skills.
Transfer Preparation
Many colleges and universities offer baccalaureate degrees in this field. Students
planning to transfer to a four-year college or university need to know which courses
completed at Santa Monica College will be accepted at the specific college/university.
Please consult a Counselor. SMC has transfer articulation agreements with the many UC and CSU campuses, as well as many private and out-of-state institutions.
Degrees
Associate in Arts for Transfer - Theatre Arts
24 units + General Education Requirements
Upon completion of this program, students will be able to evaluate and appreciate
a theatrical performance by recognizing the inherent components that go into creating
theatre, including the research involved, the collaboration among designers and directors,
the rehearsal process, and the technical skills involved in making a play come to
life.
In addition, students will hone performance, design, analytical, or technical skills
leading to performance in the capacity of at least one of the following: Actor, Director,
Stage Manager, Set/ Light/ Sound/ Costume/ Make-Up Designer, Stage Technician, Reviewer,
Educated Audience Member.
This AS-T degree is geared toward students who want to transfer into an upper-division
baccalaureate program at a California State University (CSU). If you are considering
a transfer to a UC, private, or out-of-state university, please consult a counselor
before applying to transfer, as that institution’s transfer requirements might be
different from those required for the AS-T in Theatre Arts.
Upon completion of this program, students will be able to evaluate and appreciate
a theatrical performance by recognizing the inherent components that go into creating
theatre, including the research involved, the collaboration among designers and directors,
the rehearsal process, and the technical skills involved in making a play come to
life. In addition, students will hone performance, design, analytical, or technical
skills leading to performance in the capacity of at least one of the following: Actor,
Director, Stage Manager, Set/Light/Sound/Costume/Make-Up Designer, Stage Technician,
Reviewer, Educated Audience Member.