Associate in Science, Liberal Studies

Program Description:

Students in the Performing Arts Associate in Science, Liberal Studies program focus on skill acquisition and may choose to transfer to specialized bachelor’s degree programs or nonacademic programs. Students select an option to help define their preferred curricula and to guarantee a solid foundation in the performing arts. The Performing Arts Concentration is also appropriate for students seeking a terminal degree. In the Theater Option, students are introduced to all aspects of the theater industry, including acting, theater history, playwriting, design, musical theater and theater management. 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.

Career and Transfer Outlook:

The Performing Arts Theater Option prepares students for work in the field or transfer to specialized bachelor’s degree programs or nonacademic programs. Graduates are also fully prepared to audition or interview in the highly competitive, professional marketplace, as well as in community theater. Some students, who are already employed in the field, enter the program to build a resume with the MCC Theatre Company. If transferring, students should check the requirements of the transfer institution and meet with career and academic/transfer counselors at MCC for specific program planning.

Helpful Hints:

Students interested in transferring to a bachelor’s degree program should look at the Fine and Performing Arts Theater Option in Liberal Arts and Sciences .

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 Performing Arts Theater Option 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.