Theatre
Associate in Arts (Transfer)
Take your training in theatre to a stage, studio, movie set, or cruise ship. The Theatre Associate in Arts curriculum prepares you for performance and technical careers. The program is designed for transfer to a four-year college or university.
4
shows are produced per year in multiple venues
This program helps students to explore possible careers associated with theatre, film and television including, acting, directing, arts management, teaching, and design – scenic, costume, lighting and make-up.
Admissions Office
Practicum courses offer students a minimum of 32 hours of hands-on experience workshop in on-stage and off-stage theatrical production techniques.
The Arts at ICC offers many opportunities for students to gain real-world experience in front of audiences for the benefit of the community.
Actor, Director, Producer, Stage Manager, Screenwriter, Playwright, Set Designer, Make-up Designer, Costumer, Lighting Designer
COMPLETION TIME
24 Months
if Full Time
4 Semesters60 Total Credit Hours
What if I attend part-time?
Our Student Success Advisors help with an academic plan that works for you.
ESTIMATED COST
$9,600
+ supplies & fees
Based on 2024-25
What financial assistance can I receive?
Find the plan right for you by connecting with our Financial Aid office.
AVERAGE CLASS SIZE
20 Students
average per class
Small class sizes mean more individual attention and a higher rate of success.
View the College Catalog to see a complete list of classes for this program.
Meet Our Students and Alumni
“Anyone that attends or participates in the performing arts will live a happier and healthier life.”
Bryan Asbury, Associate Professor, Arts & Behavioral Science
How Do I Get Into the Theatre Program?
The Theatre Associate in Arts program will give you the opportunity to work in all areas of the theatre and gain insight of the theatrical process. Talk to an Admissions representative to learn how to get started.
- Complete our quick admissions application. It’s free and easy!
- Apply for financial aid (FAFSA).
- Apply for ICC Scholarships. Just one easy application for over hundreds of scholarships.
- English and communications classes, and experience in theatrical productions will best prepare you for this program.
- Students in other programs are able to audition to participate in theatre productions, creating a rich community of performers and theatrical technicians.
What Can I Expect As a Theatre Student?
- Gain a strong understanding of what it takes to put on a theatrical production — from the actor to the lighting designer, and more.
- Opportunities to be a part of four annual theatrical productions.
- Careers in theatre can take you from hometown community theatre to theme parks to cruise ships.
- Upon completion of the Theatre Associate in Arts degree, ICC graduates have transferred to four-year schools including Illinois State University, Bradley University, and Millikin University.
How Am I Going to Manage This?
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What if I am working while going to school?
We have you covered. Many of our students are working adults who balance life and school. We have great resources on campus to help keep you going!
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What are my options for funding my education?
Do this first: fill out and file your FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Even if you don’t want federal aid, this document is used by many scholarship and grant programs to evaluate aid packages.
Look for scholarships and grants first because usually they don’t have to be paid back. The ICC Foundation sponsors some scholarships, and grants may be available from Illinois or federal programs. Other organizations also offer scholarships, and we can help you research those opportunities.
Federally guaranteed student loans can be a smart way to fund college. Think about your transfer plans and what your career looks like. Some sources recommend that you cap your borrowing at the level of what you (realistically!) can expect to earn at your first job after college. So, research careers and pay, too.
Of course, savings, jobs, and work-study are key parts of your budget. Your employer may offer tuition reimbursement. Find the tools to make a complete plan for paying for school.