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Career & Academic Pathways >> Visual & Performing Arts
Contact Information
Jamie Dagdigian (Division Chair)
(831) 645-1317
jdagdigian@mpc.edu
For Additional Info
• Visit MPC Theatre Arts
 • Connect with a Counselor

Program Overview

The Theatre Arts program balances academic study with the practical application of the knowledge, skills, and techniques essential to the theatrical experience.  Alongside rigorous academic study and coursework, Theatre Arts students will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of live productions of plays and musicals from multiple viewpoints in performance, creative, and technical aspects.

Job Outlook

Being a full-time actor is just one of many career paths for those passionate about theatre. In addition to teaching, program graduates can enter fields related to production and stage design, directing, and script writing; manage others’ performing careers as an agent or event producer; and promote theatre as a fundraiser or marketer for an arts organization. By training the mind, body, and voice, Theatre Arts also boosts confidence, enhances interpersonal and public speaking skills, and fosters collaboration – valuable assets for any workplace. 

Potential Careers

*Actors
(may require additional training)

$26,874 - $117,978

Lighting & Stage Technicians

$32,040 - $119,260

*College Drama Instructors
(may require additional training)

$40,070 - $200,730

*Artist Agents/Business Managers
(may require additional training)

$44,530 - $200,580

*Producers & Directors
(may require additional training)

$50,410 - $208,000+

MPC Degrees and Certificates

  • Theatre Arts: Associate in Arts for Transfer (AA-T) 
  • Theatre Arts: Associate in Arts (AA)
  • Theatre Arts: Certificate of Achievement (COA)

Suggested Course Sequence (AA-T)

Year 1

Fall
 Units
 Spring
 Units
ENGL 1A
 3
 ENGL 2
 3
MATH 10 or 16
 4
 THEA 40A-D Production #1
 3
THEA 1
 3
 THEA 15B
 3
THEA 15A
 3
 THEA 4
 3
Area D
 3
 Area D
 3
   US-1 rec.
      US-2 & 3
  
       
Total Fall Units
 16
 Total Spring Units
 15

Year 2

Fall
 Units
 Spring
 Units
SPCH 1, 2, or 3
 3
 THEA 6
 3
Major List A
 3
 Area B2
 3
Major List A
 3
 Area D
 3
Area B1 & Lab
 4
 Area E
3
CSU Elective
 1
 CSU Elective
 3
   THEA 3, 7A, 16A, 19, or 31 rec.
      THEA 3, 7A, 16A, 19, or 31
  
       
Total Fall Units
 14
Spring Year 2 Total
 15

This is a suggested sequence of coursework and is one pathway for students to earn their degree/certificate. This is not an official educational plan. A counselor is able to assist you with creating a personalized education plan based on your academic, career, and personal goals. For more information about counseling and up-to-date program requirements, please visit www.mpc.edu/counseling.