Design and Technical Theatre Certificate of Achievement

Program Description

The Design and Technical Theatre Certificate is designed to prepare students for occupational competency as a theatre technician, designer, or manager in educational, community, and resident theatre venues, as well as theme parks, television, and motion picture studios. Theatre technicians may work on set construction, theatrical carpentry, scenery, sound, lighting, costumes, makeup, props, and special effects.

The pathway below represents an efficient and effective course taking sequence for this program.  Individual circumstances might require some changes to this pathway.  It is always recommended that you meet with an academic counselor to develop a personalized educational plan.

Division

Arts & Humanities

Department

Theatre Arts

Career and Academic Pathway (CAP)

Arts, Communication, Design

Program Learning Outcomes

  1. Define and distinguish between commonly used theatrical terms applied to design and the technical elements of theatre production.

  2. Demonstrate and use basic skills in creating and organizing a design project from concept to execution.

  3. Demonstrate proficiency in the skills required for a technical theatre crew.

  4. Analyze a play script to create a costume design concept.

  5. Use makeup to interpret an author’s characterization.

  6. Identify, define, and describe terminology commonly associated with theatrical lighting design and execution.

Program Map

GE General Education
O Available Online
Program Requirement
P Program Prerequisites

1st Semester

15 units
THART 100
Introduction to the Theatre
This course focuses on the relationship of theatre to various cultures throughout history, and on the contributions of significant individual artists. This course introduces students to elements of the production process including playwriting, acting, directing, design, and criticism. Students will also survey different periods, styles, and genres of theatre through play reading, discussion, films, and viewing and critiquing live theatre, including required attendance of theatre productions.

Course Details:

  • Transfers to CSU
    • THART 120
    Acting Fundamentals I
    This course provides an introduction to basic acting theory and technique. Students will develop performance skills, including relaxation, interpretation of text, memorization, stage movement, and vocal production.

    Course Details:

  • Transfers to CSU
    • THART 132
    Lighting Design Fundamentals
    This course involves the study and execution of stage lighting with emphasis on equipment, control, color and their relationship to design.

    Course Details:

  • Transfers to CSU
    • THART 136
    Introduction to Theatre Design
    This course offers a survey of scenery, lighting, sound, costumes, makeup, properties, theatrical equipment, and construction techniques. Information is applicable to all theatrical applications.

    Course Details:

  • Transfers to CSU
    • THART 139
    Fundamentals of Costume Design
    Students will study costume history, design, and basic construction techniques as an introduction to basic theatrical costuming. Fabrics and their various uses will be investigated.

    Course Details:

  • Transfers to CSU

    • 2nd Semester

    12 units
    THART 160x4
    Technical Theatre in Production
    Students will gain practical experience in the application of production responsibilities in any of the following: stage management, house management, construction, scenery, properties, costume, lighting, sound, and running crews.

    Course Details:

  • Transfers to CSU
    • THART 165
    Stage Makeup
    This course is an introduction to the theory, design, and application of makeup for the stage.

    Course Details:

  • Transfers to CSU
    • THART 131
    Sound for Stage and Screen
    This course is an introductory course in the equipment and techniques used in theatrical and studio sound design, utilizing hands-on and computer training methods.

    Course Details:

    THART 135
    Directing Fundamentals
    This course provides an introduction to the theory, process and development of directorial skills for the stage.

    Course Details:

    1. Departmental Advisory: THART 120