Associate in Arts

Program Description:

Students in the Fine and Performing Arts Concentration Theater Option Associate in Arts, Liberal Arts and Sciences degree program are prepared for transfer to a college, university or conservatory. Students are introduced to the interdisciplinary nature of the theater, in conjunction with a well-rounded liberal arts and science curriculum. Onstage and offstage skills are acquired in the classroom and applied in production with the MCC Theatre Company, which is modeled after a professional, not-for-profit theater. Students who complete a minimum of eight science credits as part of their elective options will satisfy the Commonwealth Transfer Compact, which guarantees credit transfer to Massachusetts state colleges and the University of Massachusetts.

Career and Transfer Outlook:

Most students in the Theater Option continue their studies toward a bachelor’s degree program in performance, production, administration or education. Graduates are also fully prepared to audition or interview in the highly competitive, professional marketplace, as well as in community theater. Some students enter the program to build a resume with the MCC Theatre Company to increase  employment potential while continuing their studies. Students should check the requirements of the transfer institution and meet with career and academic/transfer counselors at MCC for specific program planning.

Note: It is essential for students to work closely with their academic advisor for proper course sequencing. Additional coursework may be required based on college placement testing. The following courses will not satisfy any requirements for graduation: MAT 060, MAT 065, MAT 070, MAT 075, MAT 077, MAT 080.

Helpful Hints:

Students interested in skill acquisition for potential employment should look at the Performing Arts concentration (Theater Option) in Liberal Studies.

Due to the intense nature of theater production, students should plan on a least two semesters at MCC without outside scheduling constraints.

It is strongly recommended that students begin their educational career at Middlesex with foundation-level courses in English and math, along with one or two program requirements.

Program Outcomes:

Graduates of the Fine and Performing Arts Theater Concentration program are prepared to:

• Understand and implement the various artistic and technical aspects required for performance;

• Analyze and understand creative work;

• Demonstrate knowledge of the performing arts in societal and cultural contexts;

• Use the critical vocabulary to evaluate performance;

• Engage in the collaborative and cooperative process of theater;

• Demonstrate effective written and oral communication skills.