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.
The courses have been intentionally placed and should be prioritized in
the order
in which they appear. If you are unable to take all the courses in
a semester, you
should prioritize enrolling in the courses in the order below.
Some courses have
been noted as “Appropriate for Intersession” 
. Should you need (or want) to take
classes
in the summer and/or winter intersessions,
the program recommends these courses as appropriate for the condensed
schedule of
the intersessions.
Some pathways combine a “Certificate of Achievement” and an “Associate
Degree”. If
you are pursuing only the Certificate of Achievement, you are only
required to take
the courses marked “Program Requirement” 
.
All pathways include at least one “Gateway Course” 
which introduces you to the program and/or field of study and helps you
decide if you want to continue with this Academic and Career Path.
Most Associate degrees (though not Associate Degrees for Transfer)
require satisfying the SMC Global Citizenship requirement. If the Program
Requirements do not include a “Global Citizenship course” 
, be sure to select a General Education course that also satisfies Global Citizenship.
The Technical Theatre Program provides rigorous academic instruction, hands-on practical training and experiential learning in several areas of technical theatre production. Through coursework as well as practical work on theatrical productions, students are trained in Stagecraft, Stage Lighting, Stage Sound, Scenic and Prop Construction, Stage Management, Stage Costuming and Stage Make-Up. Students will work with advanced technology and materials in the use of intelligent lighting systems, audio equipment, video projection equipment, stage machinery, set construction, scenic painting, and costume construction and design. Internship, mentorships and entry level job opportunities in the industry are made available to candidates who meet and exceed expectations.
Upon completion of the program, students will:
- Evaluate and appreciate a theatrical performance by recognizing the inherent components of creating theatre, including the research involved, the collaboration among designers and directors, the rehearsal process, and the technical skills involved in making a play come to life.
- Demonstrate design and technical skills leading to performance in the capacity of at least one of the following: Stage Manager, Set/ Light/ Sound/ Costume/ Make-Up Designer, Stage Technician.
Icon Key
-
Gateway Course
-
Program Requirement
-
General Education -
Appropriate for
Intersession
-
Available Online -
Global Citizenship
Semester 1
16 Units
This course provides the student with a general knowledge of theatre and its influence on modern society. Historical growth, basic vocabulary, skills, and crafts of theatre are emphasized. Attendance of theatre productions for which students must purchase tickets is required.
- Area 3: Arts and Humanities
- 3A: Arts
This course covers the history of theatre and dramatic literature with emphasis on the relationship of the theatre to cultural development. Attendance of theatre productions for which students must purchase tickets is required.
- Area 3: Arts and Humanities
- 3A: Arts
This course covers the construction, painting and rigging of stage scenery, properties and effects. It includes the use of construction tools, shop safety and procedures, and an introduction to scenic design. Attendance of theater productions for which students must purchase tickets is required.
3 units total required for program completion
See the full list: Required Elective Course from "Production Workshop" list below
SMC GE Area 1A Course 3 units
SMC GE Area 4 Course 3 units
This course provides an exploration of intellectual, psychological, social and physical factors that impact lifelong learning, well-being and success. Topics include motivation and self-efficacy; critical thinking, academic integrity and active study strategies; health issues and lifestyle choices; relating to others as a global citizen; written and oral communication; time management; career exploration; and educational planning.
Semester 2
15-17 Units
3 units total required for program completion
See the full list: Required Elective Course from "Production Workshop" list below
SMC GE Area 2 Course 3-5 units
Elective Course 1 unit
Semester 3
14 Units
COMM C1000 (formerly COM ST 11) or COM ST 21 recommended for transfer options
See the full list: SMC GE Area 1B Course
SMC GE Area 6 Course 3 units
ENGL C1001 (formerly ENGL 2) recommended for transfer options
Elective Course 3 units
Elective Course 2 units
Semester 4
15 Units
SMC GE Area 5 Course 3 units
additional course from "Program Electives" list recommended
TH ART 41 or 42 recommended
Elective Course 3 units
Elective Course 3 units
Production Workshop (3 units required)
3 Units
This course is intended for students interested in actual training and experience, either in the various backstage areas of technical support or by being involved as a member of a production crew for a Santa Monica College Theatre Arts Dept. production.
This course is intended for students interested in actual training and experience, either in the various backstage areas of technical support or by being involved as a member of a production crew for a Santa Monica College Theatre Arts Department production. Attendance of theatre productions for which students must purchase tickets is required.
This course is intended for students interested in actual training and experience, either in the various backstage areas of technical support or by being involved as a member of a production crew for a Santa Monica College Theatre Arts Department production. Attendance of theatre productions for which students must purchase tickets is required.
Program Electives (10 units required)
10 Units
The course concerns the study and execution of scenic painting techniques. It provides study and training in the use of materials and techniques for painting scenery for theatre, film and television. Attendance at theatre productions for which students must purchase tickets is required. A materials fee will be charged for student supplies.
- Advisory: TH ART 20
This course introduces the student to the theory and practice of modern stage lighting. The properties and control of light are covered, including electricity, color, instrumentation and design. Attendance of theater productions for which students must purchase tickets is required.
This course explores the process of designing projection and lighting for theatrical performances including: visualizing and choosing a concept, drafting a light plot, finding projection content, and focusing and cueing. In-depth programming of lighting consoles and advanced equipment (including moving lights, LEDs, projectors and DMX controlled accessories) will be addressed. Students are also introduced to drafting light plots by hand and with computer software such as Vectorworks, Spotlight, and Lightwright, the basics of using Photoshop, and running projection with Qlab. Attendance of theatre productions for which students must purchase tickets is required.
This course introduces the student to the theory and practice of modern theatrical sound design. The role of sound in theatre is explored with a focus on its unique contribution in supporting the dramatic narrative. Instruction will cover basic sound theory and acoustics, use of contemporary audio equipment, tools, and techniques, and crafting a sound design from concept to completion. Attendance of theatre productions for which students must purchase tickets is required.
Costume construction theory and practice are the essential elements in this course, including a survey of the history of costume. Attendance of theatre productions for which students must purchase tickets is required.
A study of the art and application of stage make-up with practice in the techniques of creating facial characterizations and alterations for specific roles and types. Attendance of theatre productions for which students must purchase tickets is required.
This course is a study and practice of specific techniques in the art of 3D and theatrical styles make-up with emphasis on developing knowledge and skill in its design and practical application. NOTE: Attendance of theatre productions for which students must purchase tickets is required.
This course explores the artistic and organizational techniques and practices required of stage managers. Topics covered include production preparation, safety, rehearsal documentation styles, execution and calling of shows. The course also addresses the necessary collaborations and relationships with other artists and staff.
This course introduces the student to the principles of scenic design as applied to the Theatre. Creative skills such as sketching, drawing, and research will be explored, and techniques in drafting by hand will be covered along with a brief introduction to Vectorworks and Sketchup. NOTE: Attendance of theatre productions for which students must purchase tickets is required.