The Associate of Arts degree in theatre at Highland Community College prepares students to pursue their art at a four-year college and/or professional level. The Theatre Arts program trains responsible, culturally competent, and creative theatre artists to be leaders in the field. Students are encouraged to think critically, engage in the global community and explore their artistic passions. Cultural competency and anti-racism are core values of the theatre arts department.
Through experiential learning students may explore:
- Acting
- Cultural Diversity through performance
- Directing and stage management
- Playwriting and devising for the theatre
- Costumes and props
- Technical aspects of theatre – lighting, sound, and set construction
- Playscript interpretation
- Musical Theatre
Possible Career Paths
Theatre provides students with a diverse resume, allowing them to apply their skills to any career! The art builds public speaking skills and confidence, which has allowed Highland graduates to pursue careers in fields such as the media, medicine, public relations, and law. Several alumni now work professionally as actors, designers, and technicians.
Theatre equips students with desired skills including:
- Collaboration
- Creative problem solving
- Emotional intelligence
- Time management
- Initiative
- Adaptability
- Cultural competency
- Anti-racism
- Leadership
Theatre Bachelor’s Degree Completion Pathway
Highland’s theatre program is designed for students intending to pursue a baccalaureate degree. Students have the opportunity to earn an Associate of Arts with an emphasis in theatre then transfer to Western Illinois University to earn a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre – Performance.
View more information on the 2+2 Degree Plan through Western Illinois University, or contact a Highland program expert below.
Majors
Theatre – AA (Program Outcomes)
Degree
Associate of Arts
Theatre Contacts
- Laura Early, Theatre Faculty
- Vicki Schulz, Student Advisor
- Jim Phillips, Dean of Humanities, Social Sciences, and Fine Arts