Communication: Speech and Theatre
Communication: Speech and Theatre
Associate in Arts Degree in Liberal Arts and Sciences (A.A.)

The Communication: Speech and Theatre option of the Liberal Arts and Sciences program prepares students to transfer as juniors into bachelor of arts programs in theatre, speech, and communication. The major offers students a creative edge in the marketable field of communication by exposing them to creative training in the performing arts.

Students planning careers in communications should choose elective subjects which best meet their educational needs. All students should determine the requirements of the institution to which they wish to transfer.

PROGRAM OUTCOMES
  • Independently interpret dramatic literature for performance;
  • Use a variety of acting, movement, and vocal techniques to craft a performance;
  • Conduct research in preparation for performing a role or a prepared or extemporaneous speech;
  • Work collaboratively with administrative, artistic, and production staff;
  • Create successful auditions and/or interviews by preparing materials and exhibiting professional conduct;
  • Develop communicative competencies in physical presentation, vocal variety techniques, and anxiety management skills to deliver prepared or extemporaneous speeches;
  • Develop effective interpersonal and intrapersonal communication skills.

Successful graduates of the Communication: Speech and Theatre option customarily transfer to four-year institutions such as Temple University, Rider University, The College of New Jersey, and Rutgers University, among others.

The program may be pursued part- or full-time. Theatre courses are offered during the afternoon and early evening. Students are required to attend some day classes in order to complete the program. Admission requires a high school diploma or its equivalent.

SEE ALSO:
Communication degree program
Professional Acting certificate program
Theatre degree programs

DEGREE CURRICULUM
2023-2024 Academic Year
 earlier / Archive
COMM.SPCH.THR.AA
CIP 240101

The course sequence below represents a recommended example of how this degree program can be completed in two years, presuming a Fall Term start and satisfaction of all Developmental Studies (foundation courses) requirements and prerequisites. Actual approaches toward completion depend on each student's anticipated transfer institution, career objectives, or other individual circumstances.

Students are encouraged to meet regularly with an academic advisor or Success Coach to consider options, establish plans, and monitor progress.

Code Course (lecture/lab hours) Credits
To Do This Semester
FIRST SEMESTER
ENG 101 English Composition I (3/0) 3

✔ Meet with your faculty advisor to complete an academic plan. Make sure you are aware of any course prerequisites you may need to take, and how long it will take to complete your degree.

✔ Use your online tools: Check your MercerMail daily, utilize features of Office 365, and get to know Student Planning.

✔ Take advantage of Learning Centers or Online Tutoring to support your studies and assignments.

MAT 125 Elementary Statistics I (3/0) 3
THR 101 Introduction to Theatre (3/0) 3
THR 104 Fundamentals of Acting (2/2) 3
  —    — Social Science general education elective
  • ANT 101 and PSY 101 recommended.



3
SECOND SEMESTER
ENG 102 English Composition II (3/0) 3

✔ Transitioning to college can be challenging. Meet with your Success Coach for guidance and support.

✔ Apply for financial aid by May 1.

✔ Contact professors with questions and use their office hours to develop a connection.

✔ Apply for Continuing Student scholarships at www.mccc.edu/m-scholarships.

✔ Begin attending college transfer events and visit campuses. Be sure to visit the Transfer Services and Career Services offices to get to know how the transfer process works and to explore career options.

✔ Plan for how you will complete transfer applications while finishing your classes.

THR 105 Acting II: Principles of Characterization (2/2) 3
THR 210 Theatre History: Classical to Elizabethan (3/0) 3
HIS  — Historical Perspective general education elective
  • HIS 112 and 113 recommended.
3
MAT  — Mathematics elective
  • Select MAT 120 or 126 in consultation with an academic advisor.







3
THIRD SEMESTER
CMN 101 Mass Media (3/0) 3

✔ Keep in contact with each professor and your faculty advisor. Make sure you are on track to graduate.

✔ Complete your applications to desired transfer institutions.

✔ Develop team and leadership skills by getting involved in activities and clubs.

✔ Manage your stress! Take advantage of the MCCC pool, Fitness Center, free yoga and Zumba. Reach out for counseling or other support if you need it. Your Success Coach can connect you with resources.

CMN 112 Public Speaking (3/0) 3
THR 212 Central Voices in World Drama (3/0) 3
HIS  — Historical Perspective general education elective
  • HIS 112 and 113 recommended.
3
  —    — Social Science general education elective
  • ANT 101 and PSY 101 recommended.



3
FOURTH SEMESTER
CMN 141 Introduction to TV Production (2/2)  

✔ Apply for financial aid by May 1.

✔ Talk to your faculty advisor and the Transfer office for advice on how to successfully transition to a new school.

✔ Apply for Graduating Student scholarships at www.mccc.edu/m-scholarships.

  OR 3
CMN 151 Introduction to Radio (2/2)  
DAN 101 Introduction to Dance and Culture (3/0) 3
THR 217 Theatre Production (1/5) 3
  —    — Lab Science general education elective
  • Select from among the course categories of BIO (excluding BIO 114 and 115), CHE, or PHY.
3
  —    — Technology general education elective
  • DMA 144 recommended.
3
  60  

NOTE: Students who forego the courses recommended above should select all other electives in consultation with an academic advisor in order to assure maximum transfer of credits.