Theatre, AA

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Associate of Arts Degree in Theatre

Offered at Main and Centerville Campuses

Students who intend to complete an Associate of Arts Degree in Theatre and transfer to a four-year institution should consult with an Indian Hills Academic Advisor and the four-year institution to determine any additional requirements at the four-year institution.

Program Learning Outcomes

This area of concentration provides an excellent foundation for students interested in transfer to a four-year college to earn a baccalaureate degree with a major in theatre and performing arts, communication, speech and theater education. This program equally applies to those students who want to take selected theatre courses to fulfill general education requirements. The curriculum focuses on performance, theatre history, performance theory and design for the theatre.

Experience and participate in a wide and varied range of theatre activities.
Engage in creating and presenting theatrical performances, which include a basic level of technical proficiency.
Become familiar with forms of theatre from a student’s own and different cultures.
Explore different theatre traditions in their historical contexts.
Demonstrate an ability to interpret play texts and other types of performance texts analytically and imaginatively.
Understand the technical aspect of theatre including lighting, sound, and design.
Develop academic skills appropriate for the study and understanding of theatre.
1. Apply appropriate research skills.
2. Analyze scripts.
3. Create written and verbal criticism.
Become reflective and critical practitioners in theatre.
1. Approach decision making in the theatrical process with creative thought followed by critical reflection.
2. Reflect on personal development in theatre through continual self-evaluation.
Develop the confidence to explore, to experiment and to work individually and collaboratively on innovative projects that:
1. Challenge established notions and conventions of theatre
2. Embrace traditional approaches.
Understand the dynamic, holistic and evolving nature of theatre and the interdependencies of all aspects of this art form, including film and media.
Develop professionalism as it pertains to a creative work environment including attention to details, meeting deadlines, and using professional communication.

Career Possibilities

The Associate of Arts Degree in Theatre Transfer Major graduate has three options:

Employment in the performing arts, performance studies, radio/television broadcasting, improvisation, directing, theatre management, stage management, lighting/sound design, costume design and scene design/construction.
Transfer to a four-year institution for advanced studies.
With the appropriate teacher preparation courses, the student can find employment in secondary education.

Preparation for IHCC

Prospective students should have sound writing and critical reading skills. While previous theatrical experience is not required, some background in performance or design will be helpful. The ability to read and analyze dramatic literature is crucial. A theatre major must have a broad understanding of a variety of topics, including literature, music, art, film, psychology and history.

Recommended Courses

Students planning to transfer to a four-year institution are strongly advised to familiarize themselves with the requirements of the theatre program at the college to which they plan to transfer and work with a counselor and the faculty at IHCC to plan a program that meets those requirements.