Acting, Certificate

Program Details

Semester 1

• DRA 130 - Acting I Credits: 3
• DRA 143 - The Business of Acting Credits: 3
• DRA 148 - Voice & Movement Credits: 3
• DRA 180 - Theatre Lab I Credits: 1
• Select 3 credits from Option 1 Credits: 3

Semester 2

• DRA 125 - Introduction to Play Analysis Credits: 3
• DRA 132 - Acting II Credits: 3
• DRA 221 - Audition Technique Credits: 3
• Select 3 credits from Option 1 Credits: 3
• Select 3 credits from Option 2 Credits: 3

Option 1 - Select 6 Credits (Styles)

• DRA 134 - Improvisational Acting Credits: 3
• DRA 139 - Acting for the Camera Credits: 3
• DRA 222 - Performing Shakespeare Credits: 3
• DRA 223 - Performing Musical Theatre Credits: 3
• DRA 228 - Introduction to Voice Acting Credits: 3

Option 2 - Select 3 Credits (Fundamentals)

• DRA 127 - Stage Combat Credits: 3
• DRA 181 - Theatre Lab II Credits: 1
• DRA 199 - Musical Theatre Dance Credits: 3
• DRA 224 - Musical Theatre Auditions Credits: 3
• DRA 231 - Advanced Voice for Actors Credits: 3
• DRA 232 - Advanced Movement for Actors Credits: 3
• DRA 280 - Theatre Lab III Credits: 1
• DRA 299 - Drama Internship Credits: 3
• MUA 101 - Applied Voice Credits: 1

Total Credits Required to Complete this Award - 28

Fixed Costs

Tuition……………………………………………………………………………………..$193.00 per credit

The costs for each program are estimates and subject to change.

Varied Costs

Approximate total cost for the program: $5,729-$6,129**

**Program entry requirements are not included in the total approximate cost.

What Kind of Work Will You Do?

While our focus is to prepare you for a sustainable career as an actor, there are many other valuable skills you will learn while you practice the craft of acting, including:

• Being present and in the moment.
• Performing on stage, in class, and on camera for audiences.
• Communication.
• Empathy.
• Collaboration.
• Self-motivation.
• Organization.
• Ideation and creation.
• Problem solving.
• Turning constructive criticisms into positive outcomes.
• Being goal-oriented.
• Adaptability.

What Skills and Abilities Will You Need?

• Yourself. An actor’s voice and body are their tools.
• An open mind. 
• A courage to create.

What Else Should I Consider about this Program or Career Choice?

• Rehearsals typically take place weekday evenings and performances are on weekends.

Program Competencies

1. Break down foundational, objective skills actors use to create dynamic, effective performances
2. Integrate creative use of the tools actors use in storytelling
3. Perform actions within a story’s imaginary circumstances that are truthful, clear, and dynamic
4. Illustrate an ability to share clear and interesting performances in a variety of acting styles
5. Generate comprehensive audition preparation
6. Incorporate an ability to consistently display an understanding of how to navigate the business of acting in order to sustain a career in the field

AY2025

Nondiscrimination Statement

Des Moines Area Community College shall not engage in nor allow discrimination covered by law against any person, group or organization. This includes in its programs, activities, employment practices, or hiring practices, and harassment or discrimination based on race, color, national origin, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, genetic information (in employment) and actual or potential parental, family or marital status. Veteran status in educational programs, activities, employment practices, or admission procedures is also included to the extent covered by law. Lack of English language proficiency will not be a barrier to admission and participation in career and technical education programs.

Individuals who believe they have been discriminated against may file a complaint through the College Discrimination Complaint Procedure. Complaint forms may be obtained from the Executive Campus Dean’s office, the Executive Academic Deans’ office, the Judicial Officer, or the EEO/AA Officer, Human Resources. ADA questions and concerns may be directed to the Section 504/ADA Coordinator at 2006 S. Ankeny Blvd, Bldg 6, Ankeny, IA 50023, phone 515/964-6857, dso@dmacc.edu. Title IX questions and concerns may be directed to the Title IX Coordinator at 2006 S. Ankeny Blvd, Bldg 1, Ankeny, IA 50023, phone 515/964-6216, Title9@dmacc.edu. Questions or complaints about this policy may be directed to the Director of the Office for Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education, John C. Kluczysnki Federal Building, 230 S. Dearborn Street, 37th Floor, Chicago, IL 60604-7204, phone 312/730-1560, fax 312/730-1576, TDD 800-877-8339 Email OCR.Chicago@ed.gov.

DMACC offers career and technical programs in the following areas of study:
Agriculture, Natural and Environmental Science
Architecture, Engineering, and Construction
Arts, Design, and Visual Communication
Business, Management, and Marketing
Education, Public, and Human Services
Health Science
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Entrance requirements for specific programs can be found at Academic Pathway website.₍₂₀₂₄₎