Theatre Arts

Theatre Arts Department

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

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.

View Requirements

Associate in Arts Degree - Theatre

22 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.