The certificate in stage management consists of a balanced combination of courses that provides a wide range of knowledge in management, sociology and theatre, as well as practical training essential for a stage management professional. In addition to the classroom requirements, students are assigned to stage management positions in School of Performing Arts productions that reflect increasing responsibilities throughout the plan of study. The program is structured to prepare the student for work in commercial and regional theatre. It also provides a strong basis for learning a variety of artistic skills and management tools essential for employment opportunities in other entertainment areas such as touring, dance, opera, event management and industrials. Workshops, seminars and lectures by guest professionals provide an essential component in the program progression.
Admission
To enroll in the certificate, students must receive approval from the certificate faculty advisor or the program coordinator of design and technical theatre.
Program Requirements
| Course | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| THEA 272 | Stage Management | 3 |
| THEA 375C | Directed Projects - Stage Management (Earned by completing an assistant stage manager or stage manager applied assignment for a School of Performing Arts production. Certificate earners are required to serve as an ASM and SM on separate shows; these cannot be earned in the same semester.) | 6 |
| THEA 380C | Practicum: Management (Earned by completing a management role assignment in the performing arts (not SM or ASM), or by completing an instructor-approved management project.) | 1 |
| SOC 320 | Contemporary Social Problems | 3 |
| COMM 328 | Teamwork, Leadership and Group Communication | 3 |
| Total Credit Hours | 16 | |
Classes required by the certificate program are taken in combination with the student’s general education and major studies classes. The certificate is open to all students of Wichita State University. Preference in selection for stage manager positions is given to BFA in performing arts - design and technical theatre majors, followed by other majors in the School of Performing Arts, then followed by other university students.
An overall grade point average of at least 2.000 for all courses comprising the certificate program, and no grade below C, is required to earn the certificate.