AMDA Course Catalog

Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION...................................................................................................................................................................... 1 VISION AND MISSION ............................................................................................................................................................ 2 AMDA NEW YORK CAMPUS ................................................................................................................................................... 3 NY Campus Life ....................................................................................................................................................................... 3 NY Student Housing ................................................................................................................................................................ 3 AMDA LOS ANGELES CAMPUS ............................................................................................................................................... 4 LA Campus Life ........................................................................................................................................................................ 4 LA Student Housing ................................................................................................................................................................. 4 ADMISSIONS .......................................................................................................................................................................... 5 Application Checklist ............................................................................................................................................................... 5 Auditions for Admission .......................................................................................................................................................... 5 International Students ............................................................................................................................................................ 6 Evaluation of Prior Credit ........................................................................................................................................................ 7 PERFORMANCE OPPORTUNITIES............................................................................................................................................ 8 AMDA PROGRAMS ............................................................................................................................................................... 10 Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree Programs (4 Years) ................................................................................................................. 11 Conservatory Programs (2 Years).......................................................................................................................................... 12 AMDA Conservatory Alumni/BFA Option ............................................................................................................................. 12 Program Specifications and Curricular Tables ...................................................................................................................... 13 Los Angeles Campus: Bachelor Of Fine Arts Degree (4 Year) Acting........................................................................... 13 Los Angeles Campus: Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree (4 Year) Musical Theatre ........................................................... 15 Los Angeles Campus: Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree (4 Year) Performing Arts ............................................................ 17 Los Angeles Campus: Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree (4 Year) Dance Theatre .............................................................. 19 Los Angeles Campus: Conservatory Certificate (2 Year) Studio .................................................................................. 21 Los Angeles Campus: Conservatory Certificate (2 Year) Integrated ........................................................................... 22 Los Angeles Campus: Conservatory Certificate (2 Year) Dance Theatre ..................................................................... 23 New York Campus: Conservatory Certificate (2 Year) Studio ..................................................................................... 24 New York Campus: Conservatory Certificate (2 Year) Integrated ............................................................................... 25 New York Campus: Conservatory Certificate (2 Year) Dance Theatre ........................................................................ 26 Course Offerings and Descriptions Los Angeles Campus ................................................................................................... 27 Acting Department ........................................................................................................................................................ 27 Musical Theatre Department ......................................................................................................................................... 32 Dance Department......................................................................................................................................................... 34 Critical Studies Department ........................................................................................................................................... 36 Course Offerings and Descriptions New York Campus ...................................................................................................... 39 Integrated Program [Acting, Musical Theatre and Dance] ............................................................................................ 39 Studio Program [Acting for Film, Stage and Television]................................................................................................. 42 Dance Theatre Program [Dance for Stage, Film and Television] ................................................................................... 47 LEARNING FACILITIES ........................................................................................................................................................... 52 Classroom .............................................................................................................................................................................. 52 Library ................................................................................................................................................................................... 52 FINANCIAL PLANNING .......................................................................................................................................................... 52 Cost of Attendance ............................................................................................................................................................... 52 Financial Aid .......................................................................................................................................................................... 53 Tuition Refund Information .................................................................................................................................................. 54 ACADEMICS ......................................................................................................................................................................... 56 Grading Procedures .............................................................................................................................................................. 56 Academic Regulations ........................................................................................................................................................... 57 ABOUT US ............................................................................................................................................................................ 64 AMDA Accreditation & Approvals ......................................................................................................................................... 64 Campus Services ................................................................................................................................................................... 65
INTRODUCTION
AMDA is a unique performing arts college and conservatory located in New York City and Hollywood. We have full four-year Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree Programs and two-year Conservatory Programs in Acting, Musical Theatre, Dance Theatre and Performing Arts. We have a campus in the heart of New York Citys Upper West Side right next to Broadway and Lincoln Center, and we have a Los Angeles campus right in the center of Hollywood. Our students come from every state in the United States, plus many other countries throughout the world. Our programs are designed to support each students creative path. Whether its becoming an actor for stage, film and television, a singer and performer in musical theatre or contemporary music, a dancer on Broadway or in music videos, a stand-up/improv artist, a producer or theatre company director --- your dream can be pursued at AMDA.
Campus locations
AMDA New York Campus New York City 211 West 61 Street New York, N.Y. 10023 (212) 787-5300 (800) 367-7908 AMDA Los Angeles Campus Hollywood 6305 Yucca Street Los Angeles, CA 90028 (323) 603-5900 (800) 367-7908
You can even study at both campuses. See www.amda.edu for additional information.
Programs of Study
Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree Programs: Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree - Acting Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree - Musical Theatre Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree - Performing Arts Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree - Dance Theatre Two Year Conservatory Programs: Acting for Stage, Film and Television [Studio Program] Acting, Dance and Musical Theatre [Integrated Program] Dance Theatre
Welcome to AMDA!
Experience inspiration every day, find your own voice, find your path, and share with us your vision!
VISION AND MISSION

Our Vision and Mission AMDA is committed to providing an unsurpassed performing arts education to a diverse community of creative artists. AMDA seeks to be both the school and the stage, where students are given the support and the freedom to find their voices, and to design and create their own unique artistic vision. We want our students to develop the skills, confidence, imagination and power to contribute to their communities as artists, entrepreneurs, visionaries, lifelong learners and conscientious citizens of the world. To achieve this, AMDA provides a rigorous, performance-based education and training experience that inspires excellence, and prepares artists with an appreciation for the universal power of transformation through art. Above all, we want to teach our students that passion, joy and celebration are the hallmarks of a successful life.
AMDA NEW YORK CAMPUS

Theres a reason New York City never sleeps. The constant buzz of Americas largest city doesnt just come from the lights of Broadway; it comes from the bohemian heritage of the West Village, the jazz and vibrancy of Harlem and the arias soaring from the Met. Performers from every country and discipline are drawn to Manhattan to pursue their dreams. Now its your turn. When you attend AMDA New York, Broadway is your backyard. Our students are a vital part of the creative community here and the city itself sets the scene for an innovative learning experience. An AMDA education is more than just studio training; its a backstage pass to New York Citys performing arts scene. Every day, hundreds of films, television shows, dance concerts, symphonies, performance art pieces and plays are produced just steps from campus. Youre more likely to find more AMDA alumni on Broadway stages than graduates from any other performing arts college --- you could be next.
NY Campus Life
Nestled beside the bright lights of Broadway on Manhattans Upper West Side, AMDA New Yorks location is split between a studio campus on West 61st Street, and the Ansonia, a historic Beaux-Arts landmark. AMDA New York has state-of-the-art performance venues, spacious rehearsal rooms, and one of the countrys most comprehensive performing arts libraries. Students choose to live in our residence halls because theyre unique, affordable and conveniently located near our Upper West Side campus.
NY Student Housing
We offer two residence options: the Stratford Arms and the Amsterdam. These Upper West Side residence halls provide students a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to reside the Big Apple! All units come furnished with 24-hour security and a variety of amenities to allow students the ability to experience the best that Manhattan has to offer. Each residence hall has common areas, laundry facilities, a computer center, and rehearsal spaces, and a fully equipped kitchen. Students can shop for delicious and healthy food options at some of the Upper West Sides famous grocers, including Zabars, Citarella and Fairway. Stratford Arms Affectionately known to AMDA students as the Strat, this historic brick hotel has been converted into classic New York City studio housing. Built in 1928, the ten-story elevator building is located on West 70th Street, just a short stroll from classes. In addition to a spacious outdoor patio, the Stratford Arms is located one block from historic Central Park. The Amsterdam Located on a tree-lined street at the intersection of West 85th and Broadway, the Amsterdam Residence is a six-story neo-classical building complete with keystone and column details. This desirable neighborhood is known as the setting for many films and television programs on any given day. Students take advantage of this charming area by enjoying a day at the Natural History Museum, a picnic in Central Park or free Philharmonic Concerts. The Amsterdam Residence is also just a short walk to Riverside Park on the Hudson with walking paths and restaurants along the way.
AMDA LOS ANGELES CAMPUS

Its no surprise that Los Angeles is considered the entertainment capital of the world. From searchlights sweeping the skies over the latest red carpet award ceremony to the world-class musicians cutting tracks at Capitol Studios, Los Angeles pulses with an unshakable sense that something big is always happening probably because it is. For generations, artists from around the world have been drawn to Hollywood to pursue their creative passions. Join them on your own path to success. When you attend AMDA Los Angeles, you become a part of Hollywoods creative community; the studios, theatres and landmarks are your inspiration. Hundreds of films, television shows and live performances take place here each day. With Hollywood as your classroom, youll get behind-the-scenes access to industry leaders and many major film, television and recording studios. To get to class, you stroll down the Walk of Fame, each star proof-positive that this is a town where dreams come true.
LA Campus Life
Situated just north of the legendary intersection of Hollywood and Vine, AMDAs Los Angeles campus spans two beautiful acres in the heart of Hollywood. Anchored by the historic Vine Tower, the campus includes multipurpose spaces, classrooms, dance studios, combat rooms, voice studios, and such amenities such as a full-service caf, student lounges, an outdoor piazza, free Wi-Fi and a performing arts library. Youll also find abundant rehearsal rooms and performing spaces. Our unique and affordable student residences are located on or adjacent to campus, in full view of the famed Capitol Records Building and the Hollywood sign. You get all the glamour and character of a Hollywood residence, along with the security and lifestyle youd expect from a private campus.
LA Student Housing
AMDA Los Angeles offers a variety of housing options for students who want to live on campus. All units come furnished with 24-hour security. Franklin Building The loft-style spaces in our five-story neoclassical building feature exposed brick, hardwood floors and oversized French windows with impressive Hollywood views. All units have been newly renovated and include full contemporary kitchens. Youll have use of a fitness center, computer lab, study room, Zen garden, private gated parking lot and a laundry room. Bungalows Situated around a landscaped courtyard, our authentic Craftsman bungalows are bright, spacious and truly Californian. Each furnished bungalow features oak hardwood floors, crown molding, huge windows and a faux fireplace. Bungalows include a separate dining area and efficiency kitchen. Yucca Street Apartments Two-bedroom furnished flats include oak hardwood floors, large bay windows and plenty of extra space. Surrounded by palm trees and featuring an enclosed courtyard, these classic Los Angeles apartments come with separate living and dining rooms, efficiency kitchens and on-site laundry. Ivar Residence Hall This residence hall is situated in a renovated Hollywood recording studio. Spacious furnished rooms surround an expansive common space designed for rehearsing, studying or just hanging out. Youll share an oversized kitchen with full amenities. Allview Apartments This residence provides contemporary student living in the heart of Hollywood. Student rooms are furnished and include a full-sized refrigerator. Additionally, the residence includes a spacious garden courtyard, laundry facilities and a student lounge. Vine Street Apartments These apartments include hardwood floors, large windows and efficiency kitchens. Vine Street residents also enjoy a courtyard patio, a student activity room and laundry facilities.
ADMISSIONS
Are you ready to pursue your dreams? You are just a few short steps away from beginning your professional career at AMDA. All application and admission information/materials can be found at www.amda.edu to schedule an audition and apply online. Then review the checklist below to make sure your application is complete.
APPLICATION CHECKLIST
Complete an Online Application The online application is your first step in the process to be considered for admission. If you are unable to complete the application online, you may print an application from the website, or contact the Admissions Office to request an application by mail. Pay the Application Fee The application reviewing fee is $50 (payable in U.S. funds only) and is nonrefundable. After completing your online application, you will be prompted for your credit card information. If unable to pay by credit or debit card, you may submit a check with a written application. Checks should be made out to the American Musical and Dramatic Academy. Submit Application Essays Each applicant must submit responses to three essay questions. You can submit the application essays online when you complete the application or you may submit your essays to the AMDA campus where you plan to begin studying. Go to http://www.amda.edu/admissions/how-to-apply to download the form. Please skip this step if you submitted your essays electronically when you completed your online application. Request Recommendations Download two AMDA Recommendation Forms at http://www.amda.edu/admissions/how-to-apply. Complete the upper portion of each form and give it to two references. Acceptable references include teachers, directors, guidance counselors or anyone familiar with your work and potential as an actor, singer or dancer. Make sure your references mail the form to the AMDA campus where you plan to begin studying. Complete the Signature Page Form and mail it to the AMDA campus where you plan to begin studying. Request Official Transcripts Send an official transcript or transcripts from your high school and (if applicable) college. Official transcripts from every educational institution that you listed in your application must be forwarded to AMDA. Contact your guidance counselor or transcript office and tell them to send your transcript(s) to the AMDA campus where you plan to begin studying. Reviewing all Documents Prior to Signing As a prospective student, you are encouraged to review this catalog prior to signing an enrollment agreement. You are also encouraged to review the School Performance Fact Sheet, which must be provided to you prior to signing an enrollment agreement. The Performance Fact Sheet data is specific to the AMDA Los Angeles campus and provided to prospective AMDA Los Angeles students only.
AUDITIONS FOR ADMISSION

You must audition for admission to AMDA. An appointment is required for all auditions, which are held at AMDA periodically. We also hold regional auditions annually throughout the United States and abroad. Please go to www.amda.edu/auditions to schedule an audition.
Audition Requirements
DANCE STUDENTS: Applicants will be taught two contrasting combinations. Applicants will also be asked to present a solo piece (60-90 seconds in length) in the style of their choice. The combinations taught, and the prepared solo piece, may include (but are not limited to) any variety of style, such as: Classical Ballet, Modern, Jazz, Tap, Contemporary or Broadway. To be fully prepared, please bring all appropriate dance shoes and attire. Applicants must provide a CD accompaniment for the solo piece.
ACTING STUDENTS: The performance of two, two-minute contrasting monologues (Contemporary or Classical). MUSICAL THEATRE STUDENTS: The performance of one, two-minute monologue (Contemporary or Classical) and two minutes or 32 bars of a song from the Musical Theatre or Classical Repertoire. Applicants are required to bring sheet music in their key to the audition, and should be prepared to meet with an accompanist provided by AMDA. Please indicate where you start and end your song on your sheet music. The Acting or Musical Theatre audition performance should not exceed 4 minutes in total. Monologues should be from published plays. Original materials may not be used. The use of props during your audition is not permitted, with the exception of one chair.
International Students
International students are a vital part of our culture. Students from around the world come to AMDA each year with a shared passion to excel and a common aspiration to become the foremost artists of their generation. We're sensitive to their needs and help them to make the most of their experience. AMDA representatives will work with the international student to guide them through the process of applying for an F-1 Student Visa. AMDA is authorized under Federal law to enroll nonimmigrant students. Requirements for F1 International Students F-1 nonimmigrant student status carries responsibilities as well as privileges. Failure to comply with the U.S. requirements for these categories is considered a violation of U.S. law, invalidates the F-1 status, cancels privileges of the status, and may lead to deportation. AMDA is required by law to make regular reports to the U.S. government concerning student status. While the Admission and Education Departments provide many services to assist students in maintaining their legal status, it is ultimately the students responsibility to maintain legal status. To maintain legal status, an international student must: 1. Be a full time student 2. Maintain a current visa 3. Report any change of name or address 4. Obey all U.S. laws Applying to AMDA as an International Student International students should complete either an e-app or a paper application, pay the application fee, and schedule an audition. In addition, the person should begin putting together all necessary admissions documents required of international applicants. Please keep in mind that international applicants have additional documents that must be presented with the standard admission application in order to be considered for admission - TOEFL Scores or its English Proficiency equivalent as well as Translated and Evaluated Transcripts. All students attending AMDA are required to speak English; AMDA does not provide English language training courses. An English Proficiency interview may be required. Financial Aid and Scholarships for International Students International students are eligible for scholarships where the funds for the scholarship come directly from the school. They are not eligible for any scholarships, grants, or loans which are subsidized by the US government. AMDA sets aside certain money specifically for academically high achieving international applicants. Please check with your admissions representative for more information. International students should keep in mind that when applying for an F-1 student visa, they will need to demonstrate full funding for tuition, housing and living expenses. Students who are not U.S. Citizens should investigate what scholarships, outside of the AMDA system, are available to them via the Internet. For nonimmigrant alien students already within the U.S., the best source for obtaining detailed descriptions and requirements of available monies is at a local/state library. Likewise, there are special search engines that help students facilitate the process with online applications through companies such as FASTWEB (www.fastweb.com). The Institute of International Education (www.iie.org), NAFSA: Association of International Educators (www.nafsa.org) as well as Rotary International (www.rotary.org) may also be useful in identifying scholarship opportunities.
Evaluation of Prior Credit

Students prior college coursework will be evaluated for possible Critical Studies (General Education) transfer credit upon receipt of official transcripts from all previous schools attended. Courses in Performance Immersion are ineligible for transfer evaluation. Students are requested to have all official transcripts mailed directly to AMDA. AMDA will maintain written record of previous education/training evaluated. Students will be notified in writing and credit will be reflected on the official transcript. International Baccalaureate transfer courses may be submitted for evaluation of transfer course status provided an official transcript record document is submitted to AMDA. Courses which fall under the General Education course category will be evaluated for transfer credit based on HIGH LEVEL (HL) course designation and a score of five (5) and above may be accepted towards AMDAs Bachelor of Fine Arts Degrees. Courses listed under the category of Standard Level (SL) will not be considered for evaluation. Students who have tested through the Collegeboards Advanced Placement Program (AP) or College Level Examination Program (CLEP) may submit official exam/scoring documentation for evaluation of transfer course(s) towards the BFA Program. Documentation must be received directly from the Collegeboard. AP scores earned must be a score of 3 or higher to be accepted. CLEP scores must be a score of 50 or higher to be accepted. AMDA has not entered into an Articulation or Transfer Agreement with any other college or university.
PERFORMANCE OPPORTUNITIES
Every student at AMDA will perform. Each semester AMDA offers a variety of performance opportunities. Many of these opportunities provide students the chance to create and develop their own projects. Certain BFA courses even provide a chance to perform as part of the designed course work.
Production Projects
Examples: BFA Play, BFA Musical, Songbook, Shakespeare Project, Dance Workshop Participation is permitted by audition only. Students selected or cast and approved to participate will commit to a full rehearsal and/or development process designed to culminate in one or more public performances. Productions may range from Plays and Musicals previously produced on Broadway or other established venues, or, originally compiled works selected to suit the students presenting the strongest auditions. Designed as extra-curricular activities, these projects are also available for credit. Commitment to the entire process is required for all participants.
Special Opportunity Projects
Students will create, develop, enact, and/or present a variety of skills and abilities. All students may present themselves for consideration; however, participation is competitive and ultimately determined through a defined selection process. All projects are designed to be created and developed entirely by the student. AMDA provides access to rehearsal/presentation space and minimal coordination with the Production Department as needed for advertising performances and assuring safety. Examples: Caf Series Individuals or small groups present prepared acts in a caf/cabaret style environment. Auditions are scheduled, then conducted and viewed by a panel consisting of 2 or more members of the faculty and administration. Final selections are posted on student boards. Students receive one rehearsal in the designated performance space on the day of performance; this rehearsal is conducted by an appointed AMDA representative. Project 15 Students present full or partial works based on projects driven by their passion and creativity. Students are provided pitch forms to submit information regarding their proposed project. A panel consisting of 2 or more members of the faculty and/or administration then reviews the submissions and determines projects which are selected to interview. Interviews with the student leaders of selected projects are conducted by the panel and a decision is then made regarding which projects to select as finalists. Appointments are then set to view the entire performance-ready project from each finalist. The panel then selects the projects that will be given a green light to move forward to a public presentation. Vision Projects Students present full-length works or projects based upon a fully realized plan and vision. Students are provided pitch forms to submit information regarding their proposed fully-realized project. A panel consisting of 2 or more members of the faculty and/or administration then reviews the submissions and determines projects selected to interview. Interviews with the leaders of selected projects are conducted by the panel and a decision is then made regarding which projects to select as finalists. Appointments are then set to view a portion of the project and/or all materials necessary for a comprehensive assessment from each finalist. The panel then selects the project(s) that will be given a green light to move forward to a public presentation. (NOTE: Vision projects may receive faculty mentorship and/or additional support as deemed necessary by AMDA administration). Workshops (Slam Poetry, Songwriting, Hip Hop, etc.) A number of extracurricular workshop offerings are provided each semester, based upon student interest, in subject areas which have included: Slam Poetry, Songwriting, Hip-Hop, Stand-Up Comedy, Shakespeare, Pocket Filmmaking, New Media, TV Promos, etc. These workshops are offered outside of the normal class hours and are open to all students. Many of these workshops culminate in one or more public performances or screenings of the material developed.
Examples: Artistic Project: Theatre Viewing, Technical Project: Crew/ASM, Business Project: Producing Support Projects are divided into 3 different options: Artistic Project, Technical Project, and Business Project. These are projects/activities that have some customization options (schedules, credit loads, Performance Immersion or Critical Studies assignation); students may register to participate for varying amounts of credit or participate as an extra curricular activity. Participants will be given a Student Agreement which will outline the specific schedule and task assignments to be fulfilled within the process; commitment to the entire process (per agreement) is required for all participants.
Support Projects
Course Presentations
Many advanced level courses (sometimes beginning in the 4th semester and onward) in the three major disciplines (Acting, Musical Theatre, Dance Theatre), will culminate in a final presentation onstage before an audience of AMDA community members (students, faculty, staff, alumni, family/friends) and invited guests. These performances are a required component of these courses in Acting, Musical Theatre & Dance Theatre. These core courses currently include the following: One-Acts, Ensemble Acting, Classical Repertoire, Directing: The Actors Experience, Directing: The Directors Experience, Musical Theatre Ensemble Combinations, Performing and Producing Cabaret, Musical Theatre Roles and Readings, Choreography: The Dancers Experience, Choreography: The Choreographers Experience, and Dance Company Production.
8th Semester Industry Event
Students in their 8th or final semester of the BFA program may audition for this production experience. Selected participants will present a two-person scene and either a monologue or song to invited industry guests. Guests are usually a mixture of agents, managers, directors, producers, and/or casting directors. In the 8th semester, BFA students may create unique, self-produced project(s). Instructors challenge students to be as creative as possible while still operating within disciplined guidelines and boundaries, as relates to production, technical, budgetary, or artistic elements associated with each project. The goal is for a successful journey from inception to a physically-realized pitch presentation of the key elements in their project.
8th Semester Projects
Course Demonstrations
All of AMDAs Performance Immersion Courses (Acting, Musical Theatre, Dance, Film/TV, Voice Production & Speech, Improv, Stage Combat, and Individual Voice) include a Course Demonstration as part of the curriculum. Students are observed and evaluated performing coursework in a classroom setting before the department supervisor and/or an audience of departmental faculty, administrative staff, and invited guests. This ensures that all students, in all disciplines, perform within every semester in a setting where their work and progress can be evaluated.
Select Demonstrations
Based upon the performance work viewed throughout the semester and within course Demonstrations, each faculty member within the six departments/divisions (Acting, Musical Theatre, Dance, Stage Combat, Individual Voice and Voice Production & Speech) nominate one piece of exceptional student work to be presented to faculty and staff. Department supervisors and coordinators screen the nominations and make a final selection. The selected outstanding achievements are then presented on stage to the AMDA faculty and staff on the last day of the semester.
Performance Disclaimer
AMDA does not guarantee that students will be cast in a featured role and/or solo number in any AMDA Performance. A students demonstrated level of performance skills and standard casting factors (i.e. type, etc.) will determine that students casting. In many cases, students will participate in duet, trio or group numbers/scenes rather than solos.
AMDA Programs
AMDA offers two paths of study: four-year BFA programs and two-year conservatory programs. Within each program, students may study different disciplines within the performing arts. For the 2011 / 2012 academic year, the following are offered:
Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree - Acting Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree - Musical Theatre Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree - Performing Arts Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree - Dance Theatre
Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree Programs
Two Year Conservatory Programs
Acting for Stage, Film and Television [Studio Program] Acting, Dance and Musical Theatre [Integrated Program] Dance Theatre
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Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree Programs (4 Years)

The Four-Year BFA Degree Programs combine rigorous conservatory-level artistic training with the intellectual and personal development of a traditional four-year degree. Specifically designed for the performing artist, each program develops the knowledge, skills, awareness, and competencies needed to excel as an actor, singer, and/or dancer. The programs provide a common body of knowledge necessary for performing artists and include specific skill and competency development for each specialization. The curriculum for each degree program includes Critical Studies courses in the historical, technological, and theoretical foundations of the performing arts and Critical Studies courses that further develop skills needed for learning, inquiry, and critical thinking. AMDAs BFA and Conservatory Programs offer students the opportunity to study at both the New York and Los Angeles campuses during their enrollment. Additional details can be obtained from the Admission Office. Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting AMDAs Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting is designed to provide artistic training in acting for stage, film, and television along with providing the tools needed to prepare for a professional career as an actor. Every semester includes core Performance Immersion courses in acting for stage and/or acting for the camera. Additional performance immersion courses and elective offerings include training in voice production and speech, dialects, movement, stage combat, and improvisation. Critical Studies courses provide academic coursework designed specifically for the performing artist. Every class is immediately relevant to the life and success of a working actor. Advanced courses focus on career preparation, industry networking, and audition techniques. Senior courses in entrepreneurship allow students to create performance opportunities, build business plans and explore the role of the producer/creative artist. Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre AMDAs Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre integrates the disciplines of musical theatre, acting, voice and dance. This comprehensive approach prepares students for a professional career in musical theatre. Distinctive training includes core performance immersions in acting, musical theatre, and dance, plus individual voice lessons and musicianship. Additional performance immersion courses and elective offerings include training in on-camera acting, voice production and speech, stage combat, and improvisation. Critical Studies course work and academics are designed specifically for the performing artist, with the objective of relevance to sustaining a career. Advanced courses focus on career preparation, industry networking, and audition techniques. Senior courses in entrepreneurship will allow students to create performance opportunities, build business plans and explore the role of the producer/creative artist. Bachelor of Fine Arts in Performing Arts AMDAs Bachelor of Fine Arts in Performing Arts is designed for the student who wants to explore a variety of performance areas. Early semesters may include foundation work in acting, musical theatre, singing, dance, improvisation, and/or stage combat. Future semesters offer the opportunity to build a curriculum that will provide an enhanced experience within given performance areas, while still continuing to build upon a broad-based performing arts foundation. Critical Studies courses provide academic coursework designed specifically for the performing artist, where every class is immediately relevant to the life of a working actor, singer and/or dancer. Advanced courses focus on career preparation, industry networking, and audition techniques. Senior courses in entrepreneurship allow students to create performance opportunities, build business plans and explore the role of the producer/creative artist. The overall program is designed to enable the graduate to successfully compete within the ever-changing demands of the performing arts world. Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance Theatre AMDAs Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance Theatre immerses the student in a curriculum that provides an intensely strong foundation for a career in a multitude of professional dance performance opportunities. Training is demanding and rigorous. An emphasis on classical technique is complimented by focused studies in a variety of dance styles and disciplines. Coursework expands training beyond dance which may include acting, voice, improvisation, and other essential performance skills. Critical Studies courses provide academic coursework designed specifically for the performing artist. Every class is immediately relevant to the life and success of a working dancer. Advanced courses focus on career preparation, industry networking, and audition techniques. Senior courses in entrepreneurship allow students to create performance opportunities, build business plans and explore the role of the producer/creative artist.
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Conservatory Programs (2 Years)

The two-year certificate programs offer intensive, practical instruction that provides a solid foundation for a successful career in the performing arts. Students learn the essential competencies for production and performance and develop the skills and technique that serve as the foundation of their professional career in the performing arts. Students who complete these programs may choose to pursue their career in the performing arts or may be motivated to enroll in one of the four BFA degree programs. One year of the Conservatory Program can be taken at one campus and the second year can be taken at the other campus. Integrated Program [Acting, Dance and Musical Theatre] This program offers training in acting, singing, and dance to prepare the student for a career in professional theatre. The first year of training focuses upon the development of technique with special emphasis on individual work. The second year focuses upon the utilization of the acquired techniques as the student develops performance and audition pieces. Studio Program [Acting for Stage, Film and Television] This program offers training to prepare the student for a career as a professional actor. The first year of training focuses upon the development of technique with special emphasis on individual work. The second year focuses upon the utilization of the acquired techniques as the student develops performance and audition pieces. Dance Theatre Conservatory Program This program offers a strong foundation for those seeking professional dance performance opportunities in their career. Training is demanding and rigorous. An emphasis on classical technique is complimented by focused studies in a variety of dance styles and disciplines. Coursework expands training beyond dance to include acting, voice, improvisation, and other essential performance skills.
AMDA Conservatory Alumni/BFA Option

Degree Program Option for AMDA Conservatory Graduates
Graduates of the two year Conservatory/Professional Training Programs may choose to further develop their knowledge and skills through two additional years of study. Alumni are automatically eligible for the program having completed the 60 credits for the conservatory programs. Students begin the BFA curriculum at the Performance Immersion level combined with the Critical Studies and Critical Studies courses resulting in a well-rounded education and well-developed competencies to excel as a professional in the performing arts.
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Program Specifications and Curricular Tables

The following curricular tables reflect the most current AMDA programs.
Los Angeles Campus: Bachelor Of Fine Arts Degree (4 Year) Acting

Bachelor of Fine Arts: ACTING, LA
Supportive Courses in Major Theatre Area: Acting Theatre, Dance or Music 31 50 41.67% 25.83% 30 - 40% Combined 20 - 30% Combined total of at least 65%
Sample Curriculum
Critical Studies/ General Studies 30 25.00% 25 - 35% Elective Courses 10 8.33% 10 - 15%
(Page 1)
Total Program Credit Hours* 121.5 101.25% 100%
Degree Program Title: Length of Program: Curriculum Program: Program Supervisors:
Bachelor of Fine Arts - Acting 8 Semesters (15 Weeks/Semester) 121 Credits (%based on 120) David Martin, Barry Finkel
*NAST Guidelines (% is calculated based on 120 credits)
First Semester
Course EN101 AC120 VP140 FL120 SC100 AC122 FL180 Course Title English Composition for the Actor Acting I: Foundations Voice Production and Speech I: Foundations Acting for the Camera I Stage Combat I: Unarmed Improvisation I: Foundations Film Survey for the Actor I Category Critical Studies Acting Acting Acting Supportive Supportive Supportive Credit/ Course 3.0 3.5 2.0 2.0 1.5 1.5 1.5 Critical Studies 3.0
First Semester
Performance 3.5 2.0 2.0 1.5 1.5 1.5 Supportive Elective
First Semester Total Credits
15.0
3.0
5.5
6.5
0.0
Year One
Second Semester
Course TR108 TR211 TR206 AC121 AC125 FL121 VP141 SC180 AC123 Course Title Theatre Roots (Choose 1 from below) Theatre History: Inception History of the American Musical 1875-1943 Great Plays: Ibsen, Strindberg, Chekhov Acting II: Scene Study Acting Techniques Acting for the Camera II Voice Production and Speech II: Techniques Stage Combat II: Single Sword Improvisation II: Techniques Category Critical Studies Credit/ Course 3.0 Critical Studies 3.0
Second Semester
Performance Supportive Elective
Acting Acting Acting Supportive Supportive Supportive
3.5 2.0 2.0 1.5 1.5 1.5
3.5 2.0 2.0 1.5 1.5 1.5
Second Semester Total Credits
15.0
3.0
7.5
4.5
0.0
Total First Year Program Credits

Third Semester
Creative Writing Acting III: Advanced Scene Study Acting for the Camera III Acting Styles VP241/VP242 Voice Production & Speech III & IPA DN150 Dance and Movement for the Actor 1 Performance Immersion (Choose 1 from below) Survey of Film II FL280 Stage Combat III: Sword/Rapier/Dagger SC280 Improv III: Advanced Techniques AC223 Course EN201 AC227 FL202 AC221 Course Title Category Critical Studies Acting Acting Acting Supportive Supportive Elective
30.0
Credit/ Course 3.0 3.5 2.0 2.5 1.5 1.0 1.5
6.0
Critical Studies 3.0
13.0
Third Semester
Performance 3.5 2.0 2.5
11.0
Supportive
0.0
Elective
1.5 1.0 1.5
Third Semester Total Credits
15.0
3.0
8.0 Fourth Semester
2.5
1.5
Year Two
Fourth Semester
Course SCI213 SCI201 CE203 CE211 AC322 AC230 AC225 DN170 FL280 SC382 MT338 Course Title Sci/Tech (Choose 1 from below) Scenic Design Kinetic Anatomy for the Actor Creative Exploration (Choose 1 from below) Cultures of Fear and the Horror Film Film and Society Acting for Ensemble Shakespeare Audition Techniques for TV and Stage Dance and Movement for the Actor II Performance Immersion (Choose 1 from below) Survey of Film II Advanced Stage Combat Ensemble Singing for the Actor Category Critical Studies Credit/ Course 3.0 Critical Studies 3.0
Performance
Supportive
Elective
Critical Studies
3.0
3.0
Acting Acting Supportive Supportive Elective
3.5 2.0 1.0 1.0 1.5
3.5 2.0 1.0 1.0 1.5
Fourth Semester Total Credits
15.0
6.0
5.5
2.0
1.5
Total Second Year Program Credits
30.0
9.0
13.5
4.5
3.0
13
Los Angeles Campus: Bachelor Of Fine Arts Degree (4 Year) Acting
(continued)
Bachelor of Fine Arts: ACTING, LA

Fifth Semester
Course Title Course Category EN301/ Playwriting/Screenwriting or TV/Screenwriting Critical Studies EN302 Theatre Roots (Choose 1 from below) Critical Studies Symbolism Expressionism TR217 TR215 History of Contemporary Am. Musical 1943-Present TR205 Great Playwrights of the Modern Theatre 1945-75 One-Acts AC228 Acting Directing: The Actor's Experience AC323 Acting Industry Workshop AC310 Supportive AC340 Exploring Film Genres Supportive Performance Immersion (Choose 1 from below) Elective Survey of Film for the Actor III ( 1.5 credits )* FL380* Monologues ( 1.0 credits ) AC335 Choreography for the Actor (1.5 credits)* DN400* Credit/ Course 3.0 3.0
Sample Curriculum
Fifth Semester
Critical Studies 3.0 3.0 Performance
(Page 2)
Supportive Elective
3.5 2.0 1.0 2.0 1.0
3.5 2.0 1.0 2.0 1.0
Year Three
*Fifth Semester Total Credits Sixth Semester

Course TR216 TR212 TR213 FL419 FL300 AC321 DN106 AC229 AC301 VP400 SC380 Course Title Theatre Roots (Choose 1 from below) African American Theatre A Decade of Pulitzer Playwrights Theories of Theatre New Media Advanced Film Projects Classic Repertoire Alexander Technique TV Genres Performance Immersion (Choose 1 from below) Advanced Improv Dialects: Directed Studies Advanced Stage Combat Category Critical Studies
15.5
6.0
5.5 Sixth Semester
3.0
1.0
Credit/ Course 3.0
Performance
Supportive
Elective
Acting Acting Acting Acting Supportive Elective
2.0 2.0 3.5 1.0 2.0 1.5
2.0 2.0 3.5 1.0 2.0 1.5
Sixth Semester Total Credits
15.0
3.0
8.5
2.0
1.5
Total Third Year Program Credits

Seventh Semester
Course CE400 AC325 AC324 AC403 FL310 Course Title Entrepreneurship in the Performing Arts Directing: The Director's Experience Exploring Contemporary Theatre Advanced Techniques & Scene Applications Advanced Audition for Camera Performance Immersion (Choose 2 from below) Advanced Improv AC301 Dialects: Directed Studies VP400 Advanced Stage Combat SC380 Category Critical Studies Acting Acting Acting Supportive Elective
30.5
Credit/ Course 3.0 3.5 3.5 1.0 1.0 3.0
9.0
14.0
5.0
Supportive
2.5
Elective
Seventh Semester
1.0 3.0
Seventh Semester Total Credits
15.0
3.0
8.0 Eighth Semester
1.0
3.0
Year Four
Eighth Semester
Course CE202 CE204 CE206 AC401 AC443 FL402 AC402 AC301 VP400 SC380 Course Title Creative Exploration (Choose 1 from below) History of International Cinema History of Independent Cinema Great Directors: Hitchcock, Fellini, Bergman Acting Audition Portfolio Acting Senior Projects Short Films Industry & Networking Performance Immersion (Choose 1 from below) Advanced Improv Dialects: Directed Studies Advanced Stage Combat Category Critical Studies Credit/ Course 3.0 Critical Studies 3.0
Performance
Supportive
Elective
Acting Supportive Supportive Supportive Elective
1.0 4.0 3.0 3.0 1.5
1.0 4.0 3.0 3.0 1.5
Eighth Semester Total Credits
15.5
3.0
1.0
10.0
1.5
Total Fourth Year Program Credits
30.5
6.0
9.0
11.0
4.5
* Depending on Elective selection in 5th semester, some students may complete the program with one-half credit more than reflected in this table.
Total Program Credits (Sample)
121.0
30.0
49.5
31.5
10.0
14
Los Angeles Campus: Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree (4 Year) Musical Theatre
Bachelor of Fine Arts: MUSICAL THEATRE, LA
Supportive Major Theatre Courses in Area: Acting Theatre, Dance or Music 23.5 61.5 51.25% 19.58% At least 50% Combined 20 - 25% TH & D Combined total of at least 50%
Sample Curriculum
Critical Studies/ General Studies 30 25.00% 20 - 25% Elective Courses 6 5.00% 5%
(Page 1)
Total Program Credit Hours* 121 100.83% 100%
Degree Program Title: Bachelor of Fine Arts - Musical Theatre Length of Program: 8 Semesters (15 Weeks/Semester) Curriculum Program: 121 Credits (%based on 120) Program Supervisors: David Martin, Scott Conner
*NAST Guidelines (% is calculated based on 120 credits)
First Semester
Course EN101 MT130 MT131 AC120 DN150 DN* MT132 IV101 Course Title English Composition for the Actor Musical Theatre I: Technique Musical Theatre Techniques on Film Acting I: Foundations Dance and Movement for the Actor 1 Ballet Musicianship I Voice: Foundations Category Critical Studies Musical Theatre Musical Theatre Musical Theatre Musical Theatre Musical Theatre Supportive Supportive Credit/ Course 3.0 3.5 1.0 3.5 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 Critical Studies 3.0
First Semester
Performance 3.5 1.0 3.5 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 Supportive Elective
15.0
3.0
10.0
2.0
0.0
Year One
Second Semester
Course TR108 TR211 TR206 MT134 MT133 AC125 VP140 DN170 DN* MT235 IV102 Course Title Theatre Roots (Choose 1 from below) Theatre History: Inception History of the American Musical 1875-1943 Great Plays: Ibsen, Strindberg, Chekhov Musical Theatre II: Styles Musical Theatre Styles on Film Acting Techniques Voice Production and Speech I: Foundations Dance and Movement for the Actor II Dance (Choose 1): Ballet, Tap, Jazz Musicianship II Voice: Technique Category Critical Studies Credit/ Course 3.0 Critical Studies 3.0
Second Semester
Performance Supportive Elective
Musical Theatre Musical Theatre Musical Theatre Musical Theatre Musical Theatre Musical Theatre Supportive Supportive
3.5 1.0 2.0 2.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0
3.5 1.0 2.0 2.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0
15.5
3.0
10.5
2.0
0.0

Third Semester
Course EN201 MT233 AC121 VP141 FL120 DN* IV201 Course Title Creative Writing Musical Theatre III: Scenes Acting II: Scene Study Voice Production and Speech II: Techniques Acting for Camera I Dance (choose 1): Ballet, Tap, Jazz Individual Voice: Technique Category Critical Studies Musical Theatre Musical Theatre Musical Theatre Musical Theatre Musical Theatre Supportive
30.5
Credit/ Course 3.0 3.5 3.5 1.5 2.0 1.0 1.0
6.0
20.5
Third Semester
Performance 3.5 3.5 1.5 2.0 1.0
4.0
Supportive
0.0
Elective
1.0
15.5
3.0
11.5 Fourth Semester
1.0
0.0
Year Two
Fourth Semester
Course Title Sci/Tech (Choose 1 from below) Scenic Design SCI213 Kinetic Anatomy for the Actor SCI201 Creative Exploration (Choose 1 from below) Cultures of Fear & the Horror Film CE203 CE211 Film and Society MT336 Musical Theatre IV: MT Harmonics AC227 Acting III: Advanced Scene Study VP241/VP242 Voice Production & Speech III & IPA IV202 Individual Voice: Technique Course Category Critical Studies Critical Studies Critical Studies Credit/ Course 3.0 Critical Studies 3.0
Performance
Supportive
Elective
3.0
3.0
Musical Theatre Musical Theatre Supportive Supportive
3.0 3.5 1.5 1.0
3.0 3.5 1.5 1.0
15.0
6.0
6.5
2.5
0.0
15
Los Angeles Campus: Bachelor Of Fine Arts Degree (4 Year) Musical Theatre
(continued)
Bachelor of Fine Arts: MUSICAL THEATRE, LA

Fifth Semester
Course Title Course Category EN301/ Playwriting/Screenwriting or TV Screenwriting Critical Studies EN302 Theatre Roots (Choose 1 from below) Critical Studies TR217 Symbolism Expressionism TR215 History of Contemporary Am. Musical 1943-Present TR205 Great Playwrights of the Modern Theatre 1945-75 MT240 MT: Audition Preparation Musical Theatre AC335 Monologues Musical Theatre FL121 Acting for the Camera II Musical Theatre DN* Dance (Choose 1): Ballet, Tap, Jazz Musical Theatre IV301 Individual Voice: Technique Supportive AC310 Industry Workshop Supportive Credit/ Course 3.0 3.0
Sample Curriculum
Fifth Semester
(Page 2)
Elective
Supportive
3.0 1.0 2.0 1.0 1.0 1.0
3.0 1.0 2.0 1.0 1.0 1.0
Year Three
Fifth Semester Total Credits Sixth Semester

Course TR216 TR212 TR213 MT335 DN* DN106 AC225 MT300 IV302 AC122 VP400 SC100 Course Title Theatre Roots (Choose 1 from below) African American Theatre A Decade of Pulitzer Playwrights Theories of Theatre MT Cabaret Dance (choose 2): Ballet, Tap, Jazz Alexander Technique Audition Technique TV & Stage Advanced Musicianship: Sight Singing Individual Voice: Technique Performance Immersion (Choose 2 from below) Improvisation I: Foundations Dialects: Directed Studies Stage Combat I Category Critical Studies
15.0
6.0
7.0 Sixth Semester
2.0
0.0
Credit/ Course 3.0
Performance
Supportive
Elective
Musical Theatre Musical Theatre Musical Theatre Musical Theatre Supportive Supportive Elective
3.0 2.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 3.0
3.0 2.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 3.0
15.0
3.0
7.0
2.0
3.0

Seventh Semester
Course CE400 MT433 AC403 DN300 DN* IV401 FL202 Course Title Entrepreneurship in the Performing Arts MT: Roles and Readings Advanced Techniques & Scene Applications Dance Combinations Dance (choose 1): Ballet, Tap, Jazz Individual Voice: Technique Acting for the Camera III Performance Immersion (Choose 2 from below) AC123 Improv II: Techniques VP400 Dialects: Directed Studies SC180 Stage Combat II: Single Sword Category Critical Studies Musical Theatre Musical Theatre Musical Theatre Musical Theatre Supportive Supportive Elective
30.0
Credit/ Course 3.0 3.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 2.0 3.0
9.0
14.0
Performance 3.0 1.0 1.0 1.0
4.0
Supportive
3.0
Elective
Seventh Semester
1.0 2.0 3.0
Year Four
Seventh Semester Total Credits Eighth Semester

Course CE202 CE204 CE206 MT401 MT443 AC401 IV402 AC402 Exploring Contemporary Theatre and Film Creative Exploration (Choose 1 from below) History of International Cinema History of Independent Cinema Great Directors: Hitchcock, Fellini, Bergman Musical Theatre Audition Portfolio Musical Theatre Senior Projects Acting Audition Portfolio Individual Voice: Technique Industry & Networking Category Critical Studies
15.0
3.0
6.0 Eighth Semester
3.0
3.0
Credit/ Course 3.0
Performance
Supportive
Elective
Musical Theatre Supportive Supportive Supportive Supportive
3.0 4.0 1.0 1.0 3.0
3.0 4.0 1.0 1.0 3.0
15.0
3.0
3.0
9.0
0.0

* DN - dependent on level
30.0
6.0
9.0
12.0
3.0
121.0
30.0
61.5
23.5
6.0
16
Los Angeles Campus: Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree (4 Year) Performing Arts
Bachelor of Fine Arts: PERFORMING ARTS, LA
Supportive Major Theatre Courses in Area: Acting Theatre, Dance or Music 32.5 47.5 39.58% 27.08% 30 - 40% Combined 20 - 30% Combined total of at least 65%
Sample Curriculum
Critical Studies/ General Studies 30 25.00% 25 - 35% Elective Courses 11.5 9.58% 10 - 15%
(Page 1)
Degree Program Title: Length of Program: Curriculum Program: Program Supervisors:
Bachelor of Fine Arts - Performing Arts 8 Semesters (15 Weeks/Semester) 121.5 Credits (%based on 120) David Martin, Scott Conner
*NAST Guidelines (% is calculated based on 120 credits) Based on Acting

Guidelines as NAST does not provide PA guidelines.
First Semester
Course Title Course EN101 English Composition for the Actor AC117 Acting Fundamentals
MT125 /232
First Semester
Category Critical Studies Performing Arts Performing Arts Performing Arts Performing Arts Performing Arts Performing Arts Supportive Supportive Supportive Credit/ Course 3.0 2.0 3.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.5 Critical Studies 3.0 Performance 2.0 3.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.5 Supportive Elective
MT Fundamentals w/ sing tech (3 credits) Dance and Movement for the Actor I Jazz Ballet Musical Theatre Techniques on Film Musicianship I Alexander Tech
Film Survey for the Actor I
DN150 DNJ* DNB* MT131 MT132 DN106 FL180
Year One

Course Title Theatre Roots (Choose 1 from below) Theatre History: Inception History of the American Musical 1875-1943 Great Plays: Ibsen, Strindberg, Chekhov Acting Techniques MT Fundamentals w/ sing tech (3 credits) MT II Styles on Film Voice Production and Speech I: Foundations Choose 2: Ballet, Tap, Jazz Dance and Movement for the Actor II
Film survey II - Great performances
15.5
3.0 Second Semester
9.0
3.5
0.0
Second Semester
Category Critical Studies Credit/ Course 3.0
Course TR108 TR211 TR206 AC125 MT125 / 232 MT133 VP140 DN* DN170
FL280
Performance
Supportive
Elective
Performing Arts Performing Arts Performing Arts Performing Arts Supportive Supportive
Elective
2.0 3.0 1.0 2.0 2.0 1.0

1.5
2.0 3.0 1.0 2.0 2.0 1.0 1.5
15.5
3.0
8.0
3.0
1.5

Third Semester
Course EN201 MT233 AC121 FL120 VP141 MT232 DN* Course Title Creative Writing Musical Theatre III: Technique Acting II: Scene Study Acting for the Camera I Voice Production and Speech II: Techniques Singing Technique class Performance Immersion (Choose 1 from below) Ballet, Tap, or Jazz Category Critical Studies Performing Arts Performing Arts Performing Arts Supportive Supportive Elective
31.0
Credit/ Course 3.0 3.5 3.5 2.0 1.5 1.0 1.0
6.0
17.0
Third Semester
6.5
Supportive
1.5
Elective
1.5 1.0 1.0
15.5
3.0
9.0 Fourth Semester
2.5
1.0
Year Two
Fourth Semester
Course Title Sci/Tech (Choose 1 from below) Scenic Design SC213 Kinetic Anatomy for the Actor SCI201 Creative Exploration (Choose 1 from below) Cultures of Fear & the Horror Film CE203 CE211 Film and Society MT336 Musical Theatre IV: MT Harmonics AC227 Acting III: Advanced Scene Study VP241/VP242 Voice Production & Speech III & IPA Performance Immersion (Choose 1 from below) DN400 Choreography for the Actor MT338 Ensemble Singing for the Actor Course Category Critical Studies Critical Studies Critical Studies Credit/ Course 3.0 Critical Studies 3.0
Performance
Supportive
Elective
3.0
3.0
Musical Theatre Musical Theatre Supportive Elective
3.0 3.5 1.5 1.0
3.0 3.5 1.5 1.0
15.0
6.0
6.5
1.5
1.0
17
Los Angeles Campus: Bachelor Of Fine Arts Degree (4 Year) Performing Arts
(continued)
Sample Curriculum
Fifth Semester
Bachelor of Fine Arts: PERFORMING ARTS, LA

Fifth Semester
Course Title Course EN301/ Playwriting/Screenwriting or TV Screenwriting EN302 Theatre Roots (Choose 1 from below) TR217 Symbolism Expressionism TR215 History of Contemporary Am. Musical 1943-Present TR205 Great Playwrights of the Modern Theatre 1945-75 MT240 MT: Audition Preparation FL121 Acting for the Camera II DN* Dance (Choose 1): Ballet, Tap, Jazz AC323 Directing: The Actor's Experience AC310 Industry Workshop Category Critical Studies Critical Studies Credit/ Course 3.0 3.0
(Page 2)
Elective
Supportive
Musical Theatre Musical Theatre Musical Theatre Supportive Supportive
3.0 2.0 1.0 2.0 1.0
3.0 2.0 1.0 2.0 1.0
Fifth Semester Total Credits
Year Three
15.0
6.0
6.0 Sixth Semester
3.0
0.0
Sixth Semester
Course TR216 TR212 TR213 MT335 DN* AC335 AC225 AC229 MT300 AC122 VP400 SC100 Course Title Theatre Roots (Choose 1 from below) African American Theatre A Decade of Pulitzer Playwrights Theories of Theatre MT Cabaret Dance (choose 1): Ballet, Tap, Jazz Monologues Audition Technique TV & Stage TV Genres Advanced Musicianship: Sight Singing Performance Immersion (Choose 2 from below) Improvisation I: Foundations Dialects: Directed Studies Stage Combat I Category Critical Studies Credit/ Course 3.0 Critical Studies 3.0
Performance
Supportive
Elective
Musical Theatre Musical Theatre Musical Theatre Supportive Supportive Elective
3.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 2.0 1.0 3.0
3.0 2.0 1.0 1.0 2.0 1.0 3.0
15.0
3.0
7.0
3.0
3.0

Seventh Semester
Course CE400 MT433 AC403 DN300 DN* FL202 Advanced Improv" Slam Experience Entrepreneurship in the Performing Arts MT: Roles and Readings Advanced Techniques & Scene Applications Dance Combinations Dance (choose 2): Ballet, Tap, Jazz Acting for the Camera III Performance Immersion ( Choose 2 from below) AC123 Improv II: Techniques VP400 Dialects: Directed Studies SC180 Stage Combat II: Single Sword Category Critical Studies Musical Theatre Musical Theatre Musical Theatre Musical Theatre Supportive Elective
30.0
Credit/ Course 3.0 3.0 1.0 1.0 2.0 2.0 3.0
9.0
13.0
6.0
Supportive
3.0
Elective
Seventh Semester
2.0 3.0
Year Four

Course CE202 CE204 CE206 MT401 AC401 AC402 MT443 AC301 VP400 SC280 Advanced Improv: Slam Experience Creative Exploration (Choose 1 from below) History of International Cinema History of Independent Cinema Great Directors: Hitchcock, Fellini, Bergman Musical Theatre Audition Portfolio Acting Audition Portfolio Industry & Networking Acting or Musical Theatre Senior Projects Performance Immersion (Choose 1 from below) Improv III: Advanced Improv Dialects: Directed Studies Stage Combat III: Sword/Rapier/Dagger Category Critical Studies
15.0
3.0
6.0 Eighth Semester
2.0
3.0
Credit/ Course 3.0
Performance
Supportive
Elective
Musical Theatre Supportive Supportive Supportive Elective
3.0 1.0 3.0 4.0 1.5
3.0 1.0 3.0 4.0 1.5
15.5
3.0
3.0
8.0
1.5

* DN - dependent on level
30.5
6.0
9.0
10.0
4.5
122.0
30.0
54.5
26.5
11.0
18
Los Angeles Campus: Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree (4 Year) Dance Theatre
Bachelor of Fine Arts: DANCE THEATRE, LA
Supportive Courses in Major Theatre Area: Acting Theatre, Dance or Music 27 62 51.67% 22.50% At least 50% Combined 20 - 25% TH & D Combined total of at least 50%
Sample Curriculum
Critical Studies/ General Studies 30 25.00% 20 - 25% Elective Courses 5 4.17% 5%
(Page 1)
Degree Program Title: Bachelor of Fine Arts - Dance Theatre Length of Program: 8 Semesters (15 Weeks/Semester) Curriculum Program: 120.5 Credits (%based on 120) Program Supervisors: David Martin, Barry Finkel, Marina Benedict
*NAST Guidelines (% is calculated based on 120 credits) Based on MT Guidelines as

NAST does not provide Dance guidelines.
First Semester
Course Title Course EN101 English Composition for the Actor DN 111-114 Core Techniques DNB* Ballet DNM* Modern DNJ* Jazz DN102 Dance Theatre Project AC117 Acting Fundamentals DN100 Survey of Dance: World Cultures Category Critical Studies Dance Theatre Dance Theatre Dance Theatre Dance Theatre Dance Theatre Supportive Supportive Credit/ Course 3.0 4.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.5 2.0 1.5 Critical Studies 3.0
First Semester
Performance 4.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.5 2.0 1.5 Supportive Elective
15.0
3.0
8.5
3.5
0.0
Year One
Second Semester
Course TR108 TR211 TR206
DN 111-114
Second Semester
Category Critical Studies Credit/ Course 3.0 Critical Studies 3.0 Performance Supportive Elective
DNB* DNM* DNJ* DN102

AC125 MT125/ 232**
Course Title Theatre Roots (Choose 1 from below) Theatre History: Inception History of the American Musical 1875-1943 Great Plays: Ibsen, Strindberg, Chekhov Core Techniques Ballet Modern Jazz Dance Theatre Project Acting Techniques (2 credits) or MT Fundamentals w/ sing tech (3 credits)**
Dance Theatre Dance Theatre Dance Theatre Dance Theatre Dance Theatre Supportive Supportive
4.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.5 2.0 1.5
4.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.5 2.0 1.5
DN101 Survey of Dance: Pop Cultures
Second Semester Total Credits**
15.0
3.0
8.5
3.5
0.0

Third Semester
Course Title Course EN201 Creative Writing DN 111-114 Core Techniques DNB* Dance: Ballet DN* Dance (choose one): Jazz or Modern DN102 Dance Theatre Project VP140 Voice Production and Speech I: Foundations FL120 Acting for the Camera I DN* Dance (choose one): Tap, Contemporary, Hip-Hop Category Critical Studies Dance Theatre Dance Theatre Dance Theatre Dance Theatre Supportive Supportive Elective
30.0
Credit/ Course 3.0 4.0 1.0 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.0 1.0
6.0
17.0
Third Semester
7.0
Supportive
0.0
Elective
2.0 2.0 1.0
15.5
3.0
7.5 Fourth Semester
4.0
1.0
Year Two
Fourth Semester
Course SCI213 SCI201 CE203 CE211 DN102
DN 111-114
DNB* DN* DN* MT132 MT338**
Course Title Sci/Tech (Choose 1 from below) Scenic Design Kinetic Anatomy for the Actor Creative Exploration (Choose 1 from below) Cultures of Fear & the Horror Film Film and Society Dance Theatre Project Core Techniques Dance: Ballet Dance (choose 1): Jazz or Modern Dance (choose 1): Tap, Contemporary, Hip-Hop Performance Immersion (Choose 1 from below) Musicianship I (1.0 cr) Ensemble Singing for the Actor (1.5 cr)**
Category Critical Studies
Credit/ Course 3.0
Performance
Supportive
Elective
Critical Studies
3.0
3.0
Dance Theatre Dance Theatre Dance Theatre Dance Theatre Elective Elective
1.5 4.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0
1.5 4.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0
Fourth Semester Total Credits**
15.5
6.0
7.5
0.0
2.0
Total Second Year Program Credits
31.0
9.0
15.0
4.0
3.0
19
Los Angeles Campus: Bachelor Of Fine Arts Degree (4 Year) Dance Theatre
(continued)
Bachelor of Fine Arts: DANCE THEATRE, LA

Fifth Semester
Course Title Course EN301 / Playwriting/Screenwriting or TV Screenwriting EN302 Theatre Roots (Choose 1 from below) TR217 Symbolism Expressionism TR215 History of Contemporary Am. Musical 1943-Present TR205 Great Playwrights of the Modern Theatre 1945-75 DN405 Choreography: The Choreographer's Experience I DN* Dance (choose 2): Ballet Jazz, Modern DN102 Dance Theatre Project DN306 Dance Company DN* Dance (choose 1): Tap, Hip-Hop, Contemporary Category Critical Studies Critical Studies Credit/ Course 3.0 3.0
Sample Curriculum
Fifth Semester
(Page 2)
Elective
Supportive
Year Three
Dance Theatre Dance Theatre Dance Theatre Dance Theatre Elective
2.0 2.0 1.5 3.0 1.0
2.0 2.0 1.5 3.0 1.0
Fifth Semester Total Credits Sixth Semester

Course TR216 TR212 TR213 DN301 DN102 DN405 DN* DN306 AC310 DN* Course Title Theatre Roots (Choose 1 from below) African American Theatre A Decade of Pulitzer Playwrights Theories of Theatre Dance for Camera I Dance Theatre Project Choreography: The Choreographer's Experience II Dance (choose 2) : Ballet, Jazz, Modern Dance Company Industry Workshop Dance (choose 1): Tap, Hip-Hop, Contemporary Category Critical Studies
15.5
6.0
8.5 Sixth Semester
0.0
1.0
Credit/ Course 3.0
Performance
Supportive
Elective
Dance Theatre Dance Theatre Dance Theatre Dance Theatre Dance Theatre Supportive Elective
2.0 1.5 2.0 2.0 3.0 1.0 1.0
2.0 1.5 2.0 2.0 3.0 1.0 1.0
15.5
3.0
10.5
1.0
1.0

Seventh Semester
Course Title Course CE400 Entrepreneurship in the Arts DN306 Dance Company DN* Dance Guided Electives (choose 4 from below): Ballet, Jazz, Modern, Tap, Hip-Hop, etc Peformance Immersion (Choose 1 from below) MT130 Musical Theatre I (by audition) AC121 Acting II: Scene Study Performance Immersion (Choose 1 from below) AC122 Improvisation I: Foundations Voice Production and Speech II: Techniques VP141 SC100 Stage Combat I: Unarmed Category Critical Studies Dance Theatre Supportive Supportive
31.0
Credit/ Course 3.0 3.0 4.0 3.5
9.0
19.0
Performance 3.0
1.0
Supportive
2.0
Elective
Seventh Semester
4.0 3.5
Elective
1.5
1.5
Year Four

Course CE202 CE204 CE206 DN443 DN402 AC402 DN* Course Title Creative Exploration (Choose 1 from below) History of International Cinema History of Independent Cinema Great Directors: Hitchcock, Fellini, Bergman Dance Senior Project Dance Audition Techniques Industry and Networking Dance Guided Electives (choose 4 from below): Ballet, Jazz, Modern, Tap, Hip-Hop, etc Category Critical Studies
15.0
3.0
3.0 Eighth Semester
7.5
1.5
Credit/ Course 3.0
Performance
Supportive
Elective
Dance Theatre Supportive Supportive Elective
4.0 1.0 3.0 4.0
4.0 1.0 3.0 4.0
15.0
3.0
4.0
4.0
4.0

* *Depending on Elective selection , some students may complete the program with more credits than reflected in this table. * DN - dependent on level
30.0
6.0
7.0
11.5
5.5
122.0
30.0
58.0
23.5
10.5
20
Los Angeles Campus: Conservatory Certificate (2 Year) Studio

STUDIO CONSERVATORY PROGRAM, LA
Performance Courses Non-Degree Program Title: Length of Program: Curriculum Program: Program Supervisors: Studio Conservatory Program 4 Semesters (15 Weeks/Semester) 1800 Clock hours David Martin, Barry Finkel Supportive Courses
Sample Curriculum
Elective Courses Total Program Clock Hours
1800.0
N/A
N/A
1800.0
First Semester
Course AC120C FL120C VP140C SC100C AC122C FL180C TR108C DN150C AC124C Course Title Acting I: Foundations Acting for the Camera I Voice Production and Speech I: Foundations Stage Combat I: Unarmed Improvisation I: Foundations Film Survey for the Actor I Theatre History I: Inception Dance & Movement for the Actor 1 Play Reading Category Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Clock Hours/Week 7.0 4.0 4.0 3.0 3.0 3.0 3.0 2.0 3.1 Clock Hours/Course 98.0 56.0 56.0 42.0 42.0 42.0 42.0 28.0 44.0
Year One
First Semester Clock Hours Second Semester

Course AC121C AC125C FL121C VP141C SC180C AC123C FL280C TR109C DN170C Course Title Acting II: Scene Study Acting Techniques Acting for the Camera II Voice Production and Speech II: Advanced Techniques Stage Combat II: Single Sword Improvisation II: Techniques Film Survey for the Actor II Theatre History II Dance and Movement for the Actor II Category Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Clock Hours/Week 7.0 4.0 4.0 3.0 3.0 3.0 3.0 3.2 2.0
450.0
Clock Hours/Course 98.0 56.0 56.0 42.0 42.0 42.0 42.0 44.0 28.0
Second Semester Clock Hours
450.0
Total First Year Program Clock Hours

Third Semester
Course AC227C AC221C FL202C VP241C VP242C AC229C FL380C AC223C MT338C SC280C DN400C Course Title Acting III: Advanced Scene Study Acting Styles & Practicum Acting for the Camera III Voice Production & Speech III: Advanced Techniques Voice Production and Speech: IPA Audition Tech for TV and Stage Film Survey for the Actor III Studio Actor's (Choose 1 from below) Improv III: Advanced Techniques Ensemble Singing for the Actor Studio Actor's (Choose 1 from below) Stage Combat III: Sword/Rapier/Dagger Choreography for the Actor Category Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Clock Hours/Week 7.0 7.2 4.0 2.0 1.0 2.0 3.0 3.0
900.0
Clock Hours/Course 98.0 100.0 56.0 28.0 14.0 28.0 42.0 42.0
Year Two
Performance Immersion
3.0
42.0
Third Semester Clock Hours Fourth Semester

Course AC330C Showcase FL300C AC406C AC331C VP400C SC380C Advanced Film Projects Advanced Scene Study Career Preparation Dialects: Directed Studies Advanced Combat: Combat Battles Course Title Category Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Clock Hours/Week 32 hours/6 weeks 12 hours/9 weeks 5 hours/9 weeks 5 hours/12 weeks 2.5 hours/9 weeks 2.5 hours/9 weeks
450.0
Clock Hours/Course 192.0 108.0 45.0 60.0 22.5 22.5
Fourth Semester Clock Hours
450.0
Total Second Year Program Clock Hours
900.0
Total Program Clock Hours
1800.0
21
Los Angeles Campus: Conservatory Certificate (2 Year) Integrated

INTEGRATED CONSERVATORY PROGRAM, LA
Performance Courses Non-Degree Program Title: Length of Program: Curriculum Program: Program Supervisors: Integrated Conservatory Program 4 Semesters (15 Weeks/Semester) 1826 clock hours David Martin, Scott Conner Supportive Courses
Sample Curriculum
1826.0
N/A
N/A
1826.0
First Semester
Course MT130C MT131C AC120C VP140C MT132C DN150C DNB C* DNT C* DNJ C* IV100C Course Title Musical Theatre I: Technique Musical Theatre Techniques on Film Acting I: Foundations Voice Production and Speech I: Foundations Musicianship I Dance & Movement for the Actor 1 & Practicum Dance: Ballet Dance: Tap Dance: Jazz Voice: Foundations Category Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Clock Hours/Week 7.0 2.0 7.0 4.0 2.0 3.2 2.0 2.0 2.0 1.0 Clock Hours/Course 98.0 28.0 98.0 56.0 28.0 44.0 28.0 28.0 28.0 14.0
Year One

Course MT134C MT133C MT135C AC121C FL120C VP141C DN170C DNB C* DNT C* DNJ C* IV200C Course Title Musical Theatre II: Styles Musical Theatre Styles on Film Musicianship II Acting II: Scene Study Acting for the Camera I Voice Production and Speech II: Foundations Dance and Movement for the Actor 2 Dance: Ballet Dance: Tap Dance: Jazz Voice: Technique Category Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Clock Hours/Week 7.0 2.0 2.0 7.0 4.0 3.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 1.0
450.0
Clock Hours/Course 98.0 28.0 28.0 98.0 56.0 42.0 28.0 28.0 28.0 28.0 14.0
476.0

Third Semester
Course MT233C MT234C AC227C FL121C VP241C VP242C DN300C DNB C* DNT C* DNJ C* IV200C Course Title Musical Theatre III: Scenes Musical Theatre III Ensemble Acting III: Advanced Scene Study Acting for the Camera II Voice Production and Speech III: Advanced Techniques VPS: International Phonetic Alphabet Theatre Dance Dance: Ballet Dance: Tap Dance: Jazz Individual Voice: Technique Category Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Clock Hours/Week 7.0 2.0 7.0 4.0 2.0 1.0 2.2 2.0 2.0 2.0 1.0
926.0
Clock Hours/Course 98.0 28.0 98.0 56.0 28.0 14.0 30.0 28.0 28.0 28.0 14.0
Year Two
Third Semester Clock Hours Fourth Semester

Course MT328C MT406C AC331C AC406C VP400C DN303C AC119C IV400C Course Title Showcase Musical Theatre Auditions Career Preparation Advanced Scene Study Dialects: Directed Studies Dance Audition Techniques 1 Introduction to Improv Individual Voice: Technique Category Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Clock Hours/Week 31 hours/6 weeks 10 hours/9 weeks 5 hours/12 weeks 2.5 hours/9 weeks 2.5 hours/9 weeks 5 hours/9 weeks 2.5 hours/ 5weeks 1 hour/ 14 weeks
450
Fourth Semester Clock Hours Total Second Year Program Clock Hours
* DN C - dependent on level
450.0
900.0
1826.0
22
Los Angeles Campus: Conservatory Certificate (2 Year) Dance Theatre

DANCE CONSERVATORY PROGRAM, LA
Performance Courses Non-Degree Program Title: Length of Program: Curriculum Program: Program Supervisors: Studio Conservatory Program 4 Semesters (15 Weeks/Semester) 1800 clock hours David Martin, Barry Finkel, Marina Benedict Supportive Courses
Sample Curriculum
1800.0
N/A
N/A
1800.0
First Semester
Course Title Course AC117C Acting Fundamentals DN 111-114c Core Techniques DNB C* Ballet DNM C* Modern DNJ C* Jazz DNT C* Tap or other assigned specialty style DN102C Dance Theatre Project PR100C Practicum: Survey Dance World Cultures DN100C Survey of Dance: World Cultures (lecture/lab) VP140C Voice Production and Speech I: Foundations Category Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Clock Hours/Week 4.0 8.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 3.0 2.2 3.0 4.0 Clock Hours/Course 56.0 112.0 28.0 28.0 28.0 28.0 42.0 30.0 42.0 56.0
Year One

Course
AC121C / MT125C/ MT232C**
DN 111-114c
450.0
Course Title Acting II: Scene Study** or MT Fundamentals + Sing Tech
Category Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion
Clock Hours/Week 6.0 3.0 8.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 3.0 3.0 1.1
Clock Hours/Course 84.0 42.0 112.0 28.0 28.0 28.0 28.0 42.0 42.0 16.0
VP141C Voice Production and Speech II: Techniques Core Techniques DNB C* Dance: Ballet DNM C* Dance: Modern DNJ C* Dance: Jazz DNT C* Dance: Tap DN101C Survey of Dance: Pop Cultures (lecture/lab) DN102C Dance Theatre Project PR101C Practicum: Dance Th Project
*Acting Techniques will result in one addition clock hour per week
450.0

Third Semester
Acting for the Camera I Alexander Technique Stage Combat I Choreography: The Dancer's Experience DN 111-114c Core Techniques DNB C* Dance: Ballet DNJ C* Dance: Jazz DN C* Dance: choose TWO specialty elective: Tap, Modern, hipDN102C Dance Theatre Project & Practicum /PR300C Course FL120 DN106C SC100C DN405C Course Title Category Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Clock Hours/Week 4.0 2.0 3.0 4.0 8.0 2.0 2.0 4.0 3.0
900.0
Year Two
Third Semester Clock Hours
450.0
Fourth Semester
Course
DN 111-114c
Course Title Core Techniques Dance: Ballet Dance: Jazz Dance: choose TWO specialty elective: Tap, Modern, hipCareer Preparation Dance Combos Dance for the Camera I Dance Theatre Final Project
DNB C* DNJ C* DN C* AC331C DN300C DN301C

DN102C / PR400C
Category Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion
Clock Hours/Week 8.0 2.0 2.0 4.0 2.5 2.0 4.0 3.0 4.5
DN443C Dance Senior Project
450.0

*DN C dependent on level
* *Depending on Elective selection , some students may complete the program with more clock hours than reflected in this table.
900.0
1800.0
23
New York Campus: Conservatory Certificate (2 Year) Studio
24
New York Campus: Conservatory Certificate (2 Year) Integrated

INTEGRATED CONSERVATORY PROGRAM, NY
Performance Courses Non-Degree Program Title: Length of Program: Curriculum Program: Program Supervisors: Integrated Conservatory Program 4 Semesters (15 Weeks/Semester) 1,837 Clock Hours David Martin, Mark Riherd, Elaine Petricoff Supportive Courses
Sample Curriculum
1837.0
N/A
N/A
1837.0
First Semester
Course 1100 1200 1300 1320 1340 1400 1500 1511 1521 1531 1600 Course Title Performing Arts Practicum I Acting I Musical Theatre I Musical Theatre Film Lab I Musicianship I Voice Production and Speech I Dance I:Theatre Dance Dance I: Tap Dance I: Jazz Dance I: Ballet Individual Voice I* Category Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Clock Hours/Week 1.7 6.0 7.0 1.0 2.0 4.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 1.0 Clock Hours/Course 25.5 90.0 105.0 15.0 30.0 60.0 30.0 30.0 30.0 30.0 20.0
Year One

Course 2100 2200 2300 2320 2340 2400 2500 2511 2521 2531 2600 Course Title Performing Arts Practicum II Acting II Musical Theatre II Musical Theatre Film Lab II Musicianship II Voice Production and Speech II Dance II: Theatre Dance Dance II:Tap Dance II: Jazz Dance II: Ballet Individual Voice II* Category Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Clock Hours/Week 1.7 6.0 6.5 1.0 1.5 4.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 1.0
465.5
Clock Hours/Course
25.5 90.0 97.5 15.0 22.5 60.0 30.0 30.0 30.0 30.0 20.0
450.5

Third Semester
Course 3100 3200 3300 3400 3500 3511 3521 3531 3600 Course Title Performing Arts Practicum III Acting III Musical Theatre III Voice Production and Speech III Dance III: Theatre Dance Dance III: Tap Dance III: Jazz Dance III: Ballet Individual Voice III* Category Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Clock Hours/Week 1.7 6.5 9.0 4.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 1.0
916.0
458.0
Year Two
Fourth Semester
Course 4101 4201 4200 4260 4262 4265 4266 4300 4310 4500 4511 4521 4544 4600 4710 Course Title Career Preparation Acting IV: Advanced Scene Study Drama Performance Showcase** Acting for Film and Television Workshop Audition Techniques Improvisation I: Foundations Monolouges for Auditions*** Musical Theatre Performance Showcase** Musical Theatre Preparation for Auditions*** Dance IV: Theatre Dance*** Dance IV: Tap*** Dance IV: Jazz/Ballet*** Dance Combinations for Auditions*** Individual Voice IV* Audition Preperation Seminar Category Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Clock Hours/Week 5 hrs / 2 weeks 6 hrs / 4 weeks 27.5 hrs / 5 weeks 2 hrs / 4 weeks 2 hrs / 4 weeks 2 hrs / 4weeks 4 hrs / 5 weeks 27.5 hrs / 5 weeks 6 hrs / 5 weeks 2 hrs / 5 weeks 2 hrs / 5 weeks 2 hrs / 5 weeks 2 hrs / 5 weeks 1.0 2 hrs / 1 week Clock Hours/Course 10.0 24.0 145.0 8.0 8.0 8.0 22.0 145.0 35.0 12.0 11.0 11.0 12.0 20.0 2.0
463.0
921.0
*Individual Voice classes are shown as regular weekly hours. Calculations include one Saturday Master Class equaling 4 additional hours plus 1 hour voice demonstration. ** Showcase hours per week are shown as regular hours. Calculations include Production Week and Saturday Technical Rehearsals equaling 7.5 additional hours. ***Class hours shown per week are shown as regular hours. Calculations include Panel Week and/or Final Demonstrations that add additional hours.
1837.0
25
New York Campus: Conservatory Certificate (2 Year) Dance Theatre

DANCE CONSERVATORY PROGRAM, NY
Performance Courses Non-Degree Program Title: Length of Program: Curriculum Program: Program Supervisors: Dance Conservatory Program 4 Semesters (15 Weeks/Semester) 1,843.5 Clock Hours David Martin, Mark Riherd, Harry Wooliver Supportive Courses
Sample Curriculum
1813.5
N/A
30.0
1843.5
First Semester
Course DT1200 DT1400 DT1500 DT1510 DT1520 DT1540 DT1550 DT1690 Course Title Acting I: Foundations Voice Production and Speech I Dance I: Theatre Dance Dance I: Tap Dance I: Jazz Core Technique I: Modern & Ballet Dance History & Application I Vocal Performance: Beginning Technique Category Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Clock Hours/Week 6.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 12.5 2.5 2.0 Clock Hours/Course 90.0 30.0 30.0 30.0 30.0 187.5 37.5 30.0
Year One

Course DT2300 DT2200 DT2500 DT2510 DT2520 DT2530 DT2540 DT2550 DT2600 Course Title Musical Theatre I Acting II: Scene Study Dance II: Theatre Dance Dance II: Tap Dance II: Jazz Theatrical Gymnastics I Core Technique II: Interm. Ballet and Modern Technique Dance History and Application II Individual Voice I* Category Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Clock Hours/Week 4.0 3.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 12.5 2.5 0.5
465.0
462.5

Third Semester
Course DT3300 DT3500 DT3510 DT3520 DT3530 DT3400 DT3540 DT3550 DT3600 Course Title Musical Theatre II Dance III: Theatre Dance Dance III: Tap Dance III: Jazz Theatrical Gymnastics II Voice Production and Speech II Core Technique III: Adv. Ballet and Modern Technique Dance History and Application III Individual Voice II* Category Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Elective Option Elective Option Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Clock Hours/Week 6.5 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 12.5 2.5 0.5
927.5
455.0
Year Two
Fourth Semester
Course DT4100 DT4200 DT4201 DT4262 DT4266 DT4310 DT4320 ST4400 DT4510 DT4520 DT4540 DT4544 DT4600 DT4700 DT4710 Course Title Dance Theatre Showcase** Student Choreography Workshop** Acting III: Scene Study Cold Readings*** Monolouges for Auditions*** Musical Theatre Preparation for Auditions*** Music Audition Preperation Intermediate Voice Production and Speech Dance IV: Tap*** Dance IV: Jazz*** Core Technique IV: Adv. Ballet and Modern Technique*** Dance IV: Combinations**** Individual Voice III* Career Preperation Audition Preperation Seminar Category Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Performance Immersion Clock Hours/Week 27.5 hrs / 5 weeks 6 hrs / 6 weeks 2hrs / 5 weeks 2 hrs / 4 weeks 4 hrs / 4 weeks 4 hrs / 9 weeks 2 hrs / 9 weeks 2 hrs / 8 weeks 2 hrs / 8 weeks 2 hrs / 8 weeks 10 hrs / 9 weeks 2 hrs / 4 weeks 0.5 5 hrs / 2 weeks 2 hrs / 1 week Clock Hours/Course 145.0 43.5 10.0 11.0 19.0 39.0 18.0
16.0
15.0 15.0 94.0

11.0
12.5 10.0 2.0
461.0

*Individual Voice classes are shown as regular weekly hours. Calculations include one Saturday Master Class equaling 4 additional hours plus 1 hour voice demonstration. ** Showcase/Workshop hours per week are shown as regular hours. Calculations include Prod. Week and Saturday Tech. Rehearsals equaling 7.5 additional hours. ***Class hours shown per week are shown as regular hours. Calculations include Panel Week and/or Final Demonstrations that add additional hours.
916.0
1843.5
26
Course Offerings and Descriptions Los Angeles Campus

Courses are subject to change each semester
COURSE DESCRIPTION BY SUBJECT/ DEPARTMENT Acting Department

Acting I: Foundations 3.5 credits AC120 Students will bring to life characters and stories within a given text. Through life-study observation and improvisation techniques, students will actualize natural human behavior within rehearsed scenes. Techniques for demonstrating the who, where, when and what in role preparation will be developed. The goal is to develop performances that are infused with passion, dedication and respect. Acting II: Scene Study 3.5 credits AC121 In this fundamental scene study course, students will explore how to physically incorporate truthfulness, economy, specificity and spontaneity into their performance. Students will grow as performers; they will learn how to take risks while also maintaining simplicity and appropriateness in acting choices. Students will continue to apply acting techniques and expand th their performance skill set while working with selections from 20 -century American drama. (Prerequisite: Acting I) Acting Techniques 2 credits AC125 This course is designed to create a supportive, committed, professional and creative environment in which students strive to master acting techniques. Building on the work from Acting I, students refine techniques for portraying human behavior through believable characterization. In addition, students engage in sensory work, trust and improvisation exercises, and other methods of freeing the imagination. (Prerequisite: Acting I) Acting Styles 2 credits AC221 Students will explore and compare different styles of acting (including Ancient Greek, Shakespearean, Comedy of Manners, Commedia dell'arte and Absurdist), that incorporate heightened language, physical elements and broader circumstances than we experience in every day life. Students will complete the class with greater knowledge of important historical dramatic styles and texts. (Prerequisite: Acting II) Audition Techniques for TV & Stage 1 credit AC225 Students will learn how to effectively and professionally present themselves at auditions. Techniques for effective cold readings and call-back experiences will also be included. Using a wide cross-section of scripts, students will participate in a series of simulated audition experiences. (Prerequisite: Acting III) Acting III: Advanced Scene Study 3.5 credits AC227 This upper-level acting course offers students an in-depth approach to scene study. Students will work to commit fully to a characters environment and physicality by analyzing and performing monologues from modern plays, duet scenes (from Shakespearean to modern), and group scenes in the American realistic genre. Through cultivating a greater sense of independence, power and expressiveness, students will work to create honest and compelling moments on stage. (Prerequisite: Acting II) OneActs 3.5 credits AC228 Students will be fully immersed in the art and appreciation of the one-act play form. The course begins with a conversation about what makes a one-act different from a full length play, and what unique dramatic possibilities can be accomplished within this shorter form. This work leads to a full rehearsal process and culminates with a performance for an invited audience. (Prerequisite: Acting III)
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TV Genres 2 credits AC229 This course emphasizes the on-camera acting process within television sitcoms, hour-long dramatic shows and commercials. Students will learn the requirements necessary to work on professional television sets. Video record and playback of acting exercises and actual teleplay and commercial copy promote an interactive learning environment. Students will benefit by rehearsing, recording, viewing playback, discussing and improving their work with critique from the instructor. (Prerequisite: Acting for the Camera III) Shakespeare 2 credits AC230 Working as an ensemble, students will be immersed in the dissection of historical, textual and analytic aspects of Shakespeares works. Students will learn to appreciate his use of imagery, language, depth of character and plot development. During this course, each student will prepare at least one monologue and one scene for critical analysis. (Prerequisite: Acting II) Industry Workshop 1 credit AC310 Students will gain a foundation for the business of acting. Included will be valuable information regarding agents, managers, unions, casting directors and other practical business aspects of a career in the performing arts. Headshots/resumes, interviews, auditions, mailings and cold readings will also be explored. Classic Repertoire 3.5 credits AC321 This course is designed to familiarize students with a vast classical repertoire including, but not limited to the Greek dramatists, Shakespeare, Calderon, Moliere, Racine, Ibsen and Chekhov. Students will gain performance experience with the classics, thereby broadening their acting foundation and increasing their marketability within the industry. This course may include a performance for an invited audience. (Prerequisite: Acting III) Ensemble Acting 3.5 credits AC322 In this course students will concentrate on the dynamics of ensemble acting. Through existing and original texts, actors will explore a concentrated and expedited rehearsal-to-performance project. Condensed rehearsal processes, varying theatrical periods and assorted acting styles may be included as part of the exploration. (Prerequisite: Acting III) Directing: The Actors Experience 2 credits AC323 This course provides students an opportunity to serve as actors in student-directed projects. The actors role will require students to focus on acting elements as they may be seen through the eyes of the director. Communication skills, ethics and establishing positive professional reputations are key elements. This course may culminate in a performance for an invited audience. (Prerequisite: Acting III) Directing: The Directors Experience 3.5 credits AC325 This course provides students an opportunity to examine the art of stage direction and develop a personal directorial vision. Students begin with essentials such as design sense, blocking, time management and effective communication with actors. Students in both the Directors Experience and Actors Experience modules of this course will participate as actors within students directorial projects. This course may culminate in a performance for an invited audience. (Prerequisite: Directing: The Actor's Experience) Monologues 1 credit AC326 With an emphasis on building a repertoire of audition material, students will develop varied and contrasting monologues; texts may range from classical to contemporary, comedic to tragic. (Prerequisite: Acting III) Voice Acting 1 credit AC328 This is an introductory course designed for students interested in animation voice talent. The course will investigate the acting skills, vocal skills and techniques required to pursue a career in the voice acting and animation industries. (Prerequisite: Voice Production and Speech I and Acting II)
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Exploring Film Genres 2 credits AC340 This acting class (with an on-camera element), provides students an in-depth study of acting styles related to a variety of film genres. Screwball Comedy, Romantic Comedy, Westerns, Detective/Crime, Film Noir and Period Drama are among the genres covered. (Prerequisite: Acting III) Career Preparation AC331C This final semester course is designed to fortify all previous training and empower the new artist with abundant resources for entering the professional entertainment work force. Included will be valuable exploration of: headshots, resumes, business cards, reels, on-line presence, contact database and a portfolio of audition material. (Upper level standing required) Audition Portfolio 1.5 credits AC401 Student will hone their acting skills through a variety of monologues and partnered scenes, all explored as preparation for professional acting auditions. Material selection will include consideration of the actors type, marketability within casting, and diversity of range. Upon completion of this course students will be able to attend theatrical auditions with confidence and professional preparedness. Work explored in this class will also provide options for consideration in the Industry Event course. Industry and Networking 1.5 credits AC402 This final semester course is designed to fortify all previous training and empower the new artist with abundant resources for entering the professional entertainment work force. Included will be valuable exploration of: headshots, resumes, business cards, reels, on-line presence, contact database and a portfolio of audition material. (Upper level standing required) Advanced Techniques and Scene Applications 1.5 credits AC403 Bringing a heightened awareness of all previous training, students will discover new acting techniques while continuing to master those previously explored. These techniques will assist the actor in achieving more focused, detailed and nuanced characterizations. (Prerequisite: Acting III) Alexander Technique 1 credit DN106 A practice for more than 100 years, and beloved by performing artists of all disciplines, the Alexander Technique is a practical educational method that teaches awareness and prevention of unnecessary and harmful muscular tension in the body. The technique promotes ease and efficiency of movement, enhanced balance and coordination, improved vocal and respiratory functioning, and a more reliable sensory perception. VOICE PRODUCTION AND SPEECH Voice Production and Speech I: Foundations 2 credits VP140 Students will be trained in a series of practical exercises, including relaxation, breath, production of tone, range of voice, elongation of breath and tone, and clarity of speech. These exercises assist in developing healthy, natural and careersustaining vocal technique, and help students fully realize the potential and variety in their own voices. Voice Production and Speech II: Techniques 1.5 credits VP141 Students are introduced to diphthongs and the 13-vowel scale. Students will be trained in vocal exercises with simple and combined consonants, as well as introduced to the use of rhythm in verse. As students continue to focus on relaxation as the basis for healthy, productive and impulsive vocalization and speech, they will master the Standard American Pronunciation (SAP) dialect for use with classic texts. (Prerequisite: Voice Production and Speech I) Voice Production and Speech III: Advanced Techniques and IPA 1.5 credits VP241 Training continues in Standard American Pronunciation with an emphasis placed on breath connection and tone placement. This semester culminates in group and individual projects in which students explore texts through various exercises designed to allow greater freedom of vocal expression. IPA: This course is an additional component to VPS III in which students are introduced to the International Phonetic Alphabet as it pertains to understanding and performing a dialect. Received Pronunciation or High British and other dialects will be explored. (Prerequisite: Voice Production and Speech II)
29
Dialects: Directed Studies 1.5 credits VP400/VP400C Students delve into advanced and specified dialect work designed to increase the actors casting potential. Coursework includes advanced use of IPA symbols in addition to the reinforcement of voice production, warm-ups and a comprehensive vocal technique. Dialects explored in class are subject to prior dialect success, student abilities and teacher assignment. (Prerequisite: Voice Production and Speech III) FILM AND TELEVISION Acting for the Camera I 2 credits FL120 This course explores fundamental methods and techniques for acting in film. Students are introduced to the vocabulary used in the industry. Through scene study and monologue work on-camera, students will also learn how to hit a mark, work within a frame, play according to the size of shot, understand continuity and match their own performance from one angle to another. Acting for the Camera II 2 credits FL121 This course explores playing to the camera, shooting out of sequence and blocking for film and television. Emphasis is placed on truthful acting within the medium of the camera. Students will spend time both in front of the camera and behind it, working with actual film and television scripts from multiple genres and formats. The course will include live tapings of selected scenes and monologues. (Prerequisite: Acting for the Camera I) Film Survey for the Actor I: The History of Entertainment in the 20 and 21 Centuries 1.5 credits FL180 Students view works of the most notable actors, directors, writers and cinematographers of the dawn of the 20th Century. Starting with Show People, the last silent film from MGM, this course provides students with an overview of Hollywood history through its greatest films, documentaries and the instructor's own televised interviews with key industry figures. Acting for the Camera III 2 credits FL202 Devoted to developing an advanced understanding of on-camera acting techniques, this course will include acting as it relates to commercials, computer-generated imagery and advanced scene work. Expanding on the vocabulary used in previous semesters work, this course will utilize more complex camera shots, equipment, character work and professional best practices involved with acting for the camera. (Prerequisite: Acting for the Camera II) Film Survey for the Actor II: The Performer in Film 1.5 credits FL280 Building on the historical overview provided by FL180, this course offers a comprehensive study of the greatest film careers of the 20th and 21st Centuries. Through feature films, documentaries and the instructor's own televised interviews with film stars, students will explore the lives of film's greatest personalities. The careers of Billy Wilder, Frank Capra, Stanley Kramer, Alfred Hitchcock, Bette Davis, Jack Lemmon, James Dean, Marilyn Monroe and Orson Welles, along with many others, are explored. (Prerequisite: Film Survey for the Actor I) Film Project 3.5 credits FL300/FL300C This course leads the acting student further into the on-camera process with a film production experience. Students create scripted film scene, and then serve as both crew and actor within each others scenes. The film projects will be edited within the semester and each actor will be featured in at least one scene. (Prerequisite: Acting for the Camera III) Film Survey for the Actor III: The Art of the Motion Picture 1.5 credits FL380 In this final Film Survey course, students will examine the artistry behind filmmaking. Building on the foundation provided in FL180 and FL280, students will explore the history, progression and styles of movies with an emphasis on direction, writing and cinematography. (Prerequisite: Film Survey for the Actor II) Short Films 3 credits FL402 Using techniques, skills and insight from previous courses, students will create an original short film from start to finish. Each student will be responsible for conceptualizing, writing and directing their individual work and also serve as actors and crew for their classmates' short films. (Upper level standing required)
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PocketMedia Storytelling 2 credits FL420 The class offers students a chance to be a part of the new media culture where anyone, anywhere, can create, distribute and view film using a variety of emerging technologies and in particular pocket-media devices such as cellular phone and flip camera despite obstacles surrounding sound and video quality. This course serves as a platform for students to exercise their creativity and possibly make the transition from a performer to content creator/ performer. No prior filmmaking experience is expected; the first aim of this class is to inform students with fundamentals of filmmaking such as script writing, preproduction planning, directing actors, cinematography and editing. Audition for the Camera 1 credit FL421/FL421C This course puts the student in front of the camera, using existing and original scripts to audition students for roles in film, sitcoms, soaps and commercials. Success in this course depends on the students mastery of the technical, practical and artistic skills necessary to this very specific type of performance. Techniques for rapid script and character analysis are introduced; the process from submission to screen test is examined; and aspects of dress, appearance, demeanor and protocol are discussed. (Upper level standing required) IMPROVISATION Improvisation I 1.5 credits AC122/AC122C This course is designed to enhance and strengthen the students range, imagination and physical choices. Students will have the opportunity to develop and master basic improvisational skills that focus on facing performance anxiety, developing creativity, listening on stage, learning to trust oneself and ones partner, and supporting other performers on stage. Improvisation II 1.5 credits AC123 Course work includes further development of kinesthetic and sensory awareness with advanced exercises in concentration and point of focus. While students work on problem-solving, moment-to-moment interaction and spontaneity, special emphasis is placed on character development. Students will learn to create and play a myriad of well-rounded characters, and to discover strong, clear storylines. (Prerequisite: Improvisation I) Improvisation III 1.5 credits AC223 This course introduces students to a range of improvisation games and techniques, including non-verbal scenes, sensory improvisation exercises, repetition exercises, verbal improvisation techniques and scene work with improvisation foundations. The student is taught to play honestly within a visceral environment and to interact spontaneously with the needs and responses of fellow actors. (Prerequisite: Improvisation II) Advanced Improvisation: The Slam Experience 1.5 credits AC301 Building upon techniques learned in Improvisation I-III, a variety of games will be explored and ultimately selected for use in constructing an Improv Slam. Students are challenged to solidify their improvisation techniques in order to entertain an audience who will actively provide ideas and suggestions within the performance. STAGE COMBAT Stage Combat I: Unarmed 1.5 credits SC100 Students will be introduced to the concentrated study of basic and advanced unarmed stage combat techniques. The focus of study will be to develop the students awareness of body, movement and partnering, as well as the safe and effective techniques to create a process from which to execute a choreographed unarmed fight scene. Stage Combat II: Single Sword 1.5 credits SC180 Students will be introduced to the art of single swordplay through the mechanics and techniques of footwork and choreography, as well as the history and development of the Western European Rapier. Through the continued study of the basic principles of stage combat, students will train to develop the concentration and focus required to execute a dramatic moment of illusionary violence with the sword. (Prerequisite: Stage Combat I)
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Stage Combat III: Broadsword, Rapier & Dagger 1.5 credits SC280 Advanced stage combat techniques are developed through the study and use of broadsword, rapier and dagger. Students will focus on applying all previously studied principles of stage combat and execute choreographed fights incorporating scenes from dramatic literature. (Prerequisite: Stage Combat II) Advanced Combat IV: Combat Battles 1.5 credits SC380 A variety of specialty and advanced combat training experiences will be offered through workshops, classes, showcase and film production work. In the past these have included work with knives, whips, shields, mass battles, martial arts, firearms and fighting for film. (Prerequisite: Stage Combat III) Advanced Combat: SAFD Skills Proficiency Test 1.5 credits SC381 In this advanced course, students interested in national recognition for their stage combat training will be taught by certified teachers and adjudicated by a nationally recognized Fight Master with the Society of American Fight Directors (SAFD). This national recognition for their stage combat training is possible through the Skills Proficiency testing process offered by the SAFD and hosted by AMDA. (Prerequisite: Stage Combat III) Advanced Combat: Environmental Combat 1.5 credits SC382 Advanced conditioning and training in theatrical combat skills including: Advanced Unarmed & Martial Arts techniques, Found Objects, Breakaways, Low Falls and Tumbling, Blood Effects, etc. Students will work toward a final presentation of portions of this work in environmental specific areas.
Musical Theatre Department

Musical Theatre I: Techniques 3.5 credits MT130 This course will introduce students to The Approach to a Song, a practical, step-by-step method to develop essential skills to integrate acting and singing techniques. The method, the foundation for students musical theatre study at AMDA, integrates both coursework and performance application. The repertoire for the course includes music from 1975 to present day. Musical Theatre Techniques on Film 1 credit MT131 In this companion course to Musical Theatre I, students will explore the importance of musical theatre history and research as it applies to their performances and approach to a song. During the course, students will view a variety of film clips and listen to narration that includes work of outstanding performers and interviews with writers, producers and historians. Musicianship I 1 credit MT132 This course is designed to help students understand and translate musical values from the page to the stage. Based on prior musical training, students are placed in the appropriate performance level. Students are trained in the fundamentals of notation, keys and musical terminology. More advanced students examine harmony, musical structure, melody shapes and relationships of words to music. Musical Theatre Styles on Film 1 credit MT133 This companion course to Musical Theatre II provides a thorough overview of the history of the American musical theatre from 1875-1975. From minstrelsy, vaudeville, burlesque and revue, to the Golden Age of musical theatre and modern-day poperetta and the rock musical, the course explores the history of the musical theatre through lecture, discussion and multi-media recordings. (Prerequisite: Musical Theatre Techniques on Film) Musical Theatre II: Styles 3.5 credits MT134 The repertoire and focus of study in this course includes styles of musical theatre from 1875-1975, such as Gilbert and Sullivan, Vaudeville, Operetta, The Jazz Age, Tin Pan Alley, and the emergence of plot-driven musicals from Showboat on. Students will prepare and perform the material in the proper style of the period in which the musical was written, while approaching the material with relevance to the modern audience. (Prerequisite: Musical Theatre I)
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Musicianship II 1 credit MT135 Each student continues the development of musicianship skills at his/her own level in order to understand music more deeply, communicate it more effectively to audiences and bring it to life easily from the page. Students work in tonal patterns using solfge and explore rhythm patterns and meter through chanting and movement. Students will study other topics including song form, note identification, and major and minor modes. (Prerequisite: Musicianship I) Musical Theatre III: Scene Study 3.5 credits MT233 Students will work with scene partners and explore various scenes featuring duets, trios and small groups. Students will learn how to make the authors voice come alive in structure and characterization and how to make the transition from speaking to singing in an honest and believable way. A director, choreographer and a musical director work together with the students to prepare a final project for a live audience. (Prerequisite: Musical Theatre II) Musical Theatre Ensemble 1.5 credits MT234/MT234C This course trains students to effectively perform in a musical theatre ensemble. Students will focus on singing harmony, dancing as part of an ensemble and building a character within the ensemble. Additionally, students will experience how the musical director-choreographer and director collaborate during the rehearsal and performance process. Students will learn to take direction from a creative team and make adjustments. (Prerequisite: Musical Theatre II) Advanced Musicianship: Sight Singing 1 credit MT238 Focusing on specific exercises and techniques that integrate previous coursework in musicianship, students at the advanced level will examine music theory and sight-seeing. Students will study tonal patterns using solfge and explore rhythm patterns and meter through chanting and movement. Students also develop skills in vocal transcription through hearing and identification (Prerequisite: Musicianship II) Musical Theatre IV: Audition Preparation 3 credits MT240 Designed to prepare students for professional musical theatre auditions, the class focuses on performance skills needed to succeed in todays job market. Selection of a broad range of repertoire, and preparing a book of usable material for all styles and genres of musical theatre auditions will be the goal for each student. A mock audition may be presented for faculty and invited industry guests. (Prerequisite: Musical Theatre III) Ensemble Combinations 3 credits MT334 Students work with a director and choreographer to create characters for an effective musical theatre performance within a professional ensemble. Skill areas include exploring vocal choices through acting, singing harmony, movement and choreography, and building a character. Repertoire is chosen from shows that are frequently produced allowing the student to prepare for future ensemble auditions. (Prerequisite: Musical Theatre IV) Cabaret Performance 3 credits MT335 Students explore and combine a variety of performance skills to create their own cabaret experience. Crafting of special material, patter, character development, musical arrangements, microphone technique, song selection and marketing are all part of the process. (Prerequisite: Musical Theatre IV) Ensemble Singing for the Actor 1 credit MT338/MT338C Students work with a director and choreographer to create characters for an effective professional musical theatre performance within a musical ensemble. Students will explore vocal choices through acting, singing harmony, movement and choreography, and building a character. Repertoire is chosen from shows that are frequently produced, allowing the student to prepare for future ensemble auditions. (Prerequisite: Acting I) Roles and Readings 3 credits MT433 Students will choose material from musical theatre productions of the 20th- and 21st- centuries and study its historical relevance. Students will then stage their material in a creative workshop manner. Students will have the opportunity to add new material to their already extensive repertoires. (Prerequisite: Musical Theatre IV)
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Musical Theatre Audition Portfolio 1.5 credits MT401 Student will hone their acting skills through a variety of monologues and partnered scenes, all explored as preparation for professional acting auditions. Material selection will include consideration of the actors type, marketability within casting, and diversity of range. Upon completion of this course students will be able to attend theatrical auditions with confidence and professional preparedness. Work explored in this class will also provide options for consideration in the Industry Event course. INDIVIDUAL VOICE Individual Voice: Singing Techniques 1 credit IV100/ IV100C In this course, students will learn to produce free sound without constriction and build a healthy voice through consistent vocal habits. Careful attention is given to assessing the health of the voice, releasing tension and physical constrictions, and establishing vocal range, breath management, focus, placement and resonance, diction, clear tone, and correct posture. Students will also learn to sing pure vowels. As students progress through the course, the difficulty and range of material will increase. (Repeated for credit each semester)
Dance Department
Survey of Dance 1.5 credits DN100 A survey of the purposes, functions and manifestations of American dance forms from the beginning of the Twentieth century to the present. Relationships are examined between dance and general cultural developments in the United States in each decade of this century. Topics covered include: the forerunners and pioneers of modern dance; avant-garde and post-modernists; and artists of jazz, tap, Broadway, movies, and the current media. Dance Theatre 3 credits DN102 Designed especially for the Dance Theatre student, unique and expansive works will be explored every semester. Various choreographic styles and techniques will be explored. A performance of selected class work may be presented for an invited audience. In later semesters, this course will focus on principles essential to that of a dance company (Dance Company Project) and may also provide the opportunity for Student-choreographed works. Body Conditioning 1 credit DN104 Through rigorous and intensive exercises, students will focus on improving and developing their physical instrument. A concentration in building ones flexibility, strength, endurance and stamina will be key components in this training. Body Warmup 1 credit DN105 Through breathing, stretching and alignment exercises, students will develop techniques for preparing and maintaining a healthy body. Based on the demands commonly experienced within rehearsal and training, a variety of warm-up techniques will be used. Yoga, Pilates, Floor Barre and Center Barre are some of the techniques used in this class. Dance & Movement for the Actor I 1 credit DN150 In this course, emphasis is placed on the development of professional attitudes, as well as on students ability to take and respond to direction. A strong focus is given to the development of physical awareness, flexibility and precision as it relates to movement for the stage. Exercises will include work on spatial relationships, posture, rhythmic accuracy and energy. Dance and Movement for the Actor II 1 credit DN170 This course continues the work initiated in PED. Students will focus on continuing to develop physical awareness, flexibility and precision. Work will expand to other dance forms that may include polka, waltz, partnering, court dance and country dance. (Prerequisite: Dance & Movement for the Actor I)
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Theatre Dance 1 credit DN300/ DN300C Absorb choreography, adapt to different styles and apply individual performance techniques. Through samplings of dance combinations from the Musical Theatre repertoire, students will be challenged by increasing their ability to perform in an array of styles. Ballet, tap, jazz and other dance forms may be explored within original and re-invented choreographic works. (Prerequisite: Dance and Movement for the Actor II) Choreography & Combos for the Actor 1 credit DN400 This course is designed with the actor in mind as it explores a variety of dance styles, techniques and periods. Combinations may include swing, jazz and contemporary dance styles ranging from the 1920s to today. Attention is placed on phrasing and an advanced use of spatial awareness, posture and body alignment will be emphasized. (Prerequisite: Dance and Movement for the Actor) Dance Workshop DNW100 Dance Workshop is open to all current AMDA students who wish to participate in the process of working with choreographers in the development of original works. Students will participate in the development of pieces created by current AMDA faculty and visiting artists. Each semester, proposals for original works of student choreography are reviewed for inclusion in the workshop. Each student choreographer selected is paired with a faculty mentor and is guided through the process of creating an original piece. BALLET Dance: Ballet 1 credit DNB151 / DNB153 / DNB155 Beginner This course is an introduction to the fundamentals of ballet technique and vocabulary. Emphasis is placed on learning the elementary positions, characteristics and movements of this highly stylized art form. Students develop an awareness and control of posture and body alignment. Intermediate This course is a continuation of ballet technique training with an emphasis upon increasing technical proficiency, performance skills and aesthetics. Students develop an increased awareness and control of posture and body alignment Advanced This course offers advanced ballet training with a greater emphasis upon perfecting technique, performance skills, ballet vocabulary and varied styles. Students acquire an advanced awareness and control of effective posture and body alignment. TAP Dance: Tap 1 credit DNT151 / DNT153 / DNT155 Beginner This course is a beginning exploration into rhythms and steps basic to the art form of tap dancing. Training includes musicality and performance skills as well as techniques. Students acquire an awareness and control of posture and body alignment. Intermediate This course will continue tap technique training with increased attention placed on musical phrasing and the use of space. More emphasis will be placed on increasing tap vocabulary and performing duet and solo work. Students develop an increased awareness and control of posture and body alignment. Advanced This course offers advanced tap training with a greater emphasis upon perfecting tap technique and performance skills. An emphasis will be placed on relating to music, space and style. Students develop an advanced awareness and control of posture and body alignment. JAZZ Dance: Jazz 1 credit DNJ151 / DNJ153 / DNJ155 Beginner This course is an introduction to the fundamental mechanics of movement in the jazz style. Emphasis will be placed on the development of jazz techniques, performing skills and spatial relationships. Students develop an awareness and control of posture and body alignment. Intermediate This course offers a continuation of jazz technique training with increased attention placed on phrasing and the use of space. Students acquire an increased awareness and control of posture and body alignment. Advanced This course offers advanced jazz training with a greater emphasis upon perfecting jazz technique and style. Performance skills and audition skills are highlighted. Students develop an advanced awareness and control of effective posture and body alignment.
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MODERN Dance: Modern 1 credit DNM151 This course explores fundamental movement mechanics as related to the modern dance style. Emphasis will be placed on the development of specific techniques, performing skills, and spatial relationships. Students will acquire and develop an awareness and control of posture and body alignment. Stretch, strength, centered and off-centered movement will be explored. As the course progresses, the student will develop a greater knowledge and skill in classic modern techniques.
Critical Studies Department

ENGLISH English Composition for the Actor 3 credits EN101 Balancing the requirements of standard written English with subject matter that is relevant to the performing artist, this course will help students achieve confidence and competency in the written word. Students will learn how to create a focused and unified thesis, compelling content and supporting details. Students will also study a variety of rhetorical and organizational modes, grammar and mechanics, and accepted formats and documentation. Creative Writing 3 credits EN201 This course offers performing artists a dynamic workshop in which to explore, develop, structure and present their written expression. By reading inspired examples of creative written works and comparing the fundamental structures and styles of various texts, such as personal narratives, short stories, poetry, non-fiction, theatre scripts and screenplays, students will write and present their own material based on a variety of formats. (Prerequisite: English Composition for the Actor) Playwriting and Screenwriting 3 credits EN301 This course is designed to explore the fundamentals of Playwriting and Screenwriting while allowing students to develop their skills in creating compelling characters, dialogue and plot. This course will survey the basic elements of dramatic structure and the parallels and differences between the two art forms of playwriting and screenwriting. (Prerequisite: English Composition for the Actor) Writing for TV & Film 3 credits EN302 Writing for Television and Film is designed to explore the fundamentals and techniques used in writing for the large and small screen. Both of these genres are deeply structural in nature and mastery of their formats will open a world of creative understanding and opportunity. Through a series of classroom discussions, readings, writing exercises and viewing assignments, students will develop a detailed knowledge of structure, story and character development, culminating in the pitching of an original episode for an existing series and a spec script as well as a scene from a film screenplay. (Prerequisite: English Composition for the Actor) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY Kinetic Anatomy for the Actor 3 credits SCI201 Students will gain a fundamental knowledge and understanding of human skeletal and muscular anatomy, as well as basic concepts of exercise physiology and leverage. These lessons will be complimented by a movement lab in which students will gain a greater sense of physical coordination and awareness. Students will learn to refine their characterization skills and the physical aspects of their performances. CREATIVE EXPLORATION History of International Cinema 3 credits CE202 Important currents of world cinema, emphasizing European schools, will be explored along with connections to filmmakers from Africa to India. While highlighting important directors, the course is structured around world cinema's thematic and stylistic inheritance; movements such as Expressionism, Surrealism, Poetic Realism, Neo-Realism and the French New Wave (including its connection to Post Modernism), may be considered.
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Cultures of Fear and the Horror Film 3 credits CE203 Horror and fear play seminal roles in the construction of cultural mythos and practice. In this course we will examine the construction and application of central themes in the scope of international horror cinema and how they reveal salient aspects of cultural similarities and differences including: gender, sexuality, violence and socio-political climates. Students will contextualize the films via texts drawing from anthropology, film studies, basic film production and culture theory. History of the Independent Film 3 credits CE204 This course will examine the independent film movement in America from 1970-2000. Each week, a monumental independent film will be discussed and critiqued. The aesthetics, styles and shooting strategies of the selected films will be explored within class. The class will also examine the cultural and historical events that coincide with the production of the selected independent films. Film Study: Silent Films 3 credits CE205 From the first thirty-second spectacular films, which thrilled audiences because they had never seen a picture moving before, through the creative geniuses who invented the language of film, this course will explore the birth of cinema in the years 1899-1929. We will witness the work of everyone from the legendary Sarah Bernhardt to the brilliant John Barrymore. Above all, we will recognize that everything we do today in cinema is only a variation upon what was first created at the dawn of the medium. Great Directors: Alfred Hitchcock, Federico Fellini, Ingmar Bergman 3 credits CE206 This course will examine the films of three of the most important and influential directors in the history of the medium. British filmmaker Alfred Hitchcock singlehandedly revolutionized the suspense and psychological thriller genres with films like Vertigo, Psycho, North by Northwest and The Birds. Italian director Federico Fellinis dream-inspired art-house films (8 , La Strada and Satyricon) have had a major impact upon both international cinema and pop culture. And Swedish filmmaker Ingmar Bergman, often hailed as the Shakespeare of Cinema, explored existential themes of mortality, madness and faith in critically acclaimed films like The Seventh Seal, Persona and Through a Glass Darkly. These three directors will provide a foundation to explore filmmaking as an art form. Entrepreneurship and the Performing Arts 3 credits CE400 The purpose of this course is to help each student achieve an individualized understanding of entrepreneurship. Students will learn how to create new artistic ventures, as well as have the opportunity to envision a career in (or related to) the arts based upon their own creative and professional interests. In addition to other assignments, students will be expected to complete a Project Portfolio, including a business plan, project budget and plan of action. THEATRE ROOTS Masterpieces of Greek and Roman Drama 3 credits TR105 By embarking upon an intellectual odyssey through the ancient world this course will examine the Greek and Roman playwrights whose works initiated Western drama by reconstructing the cultural milieu where these great dramatists lived and wrote. Through discussion and text analysis, students will also explore period audiences, staging trends and technology, along with the role of theatre in society. Theatre Roots: Inception 3 credits TR108 This humanities course provides an artistic, intellectual, historical, sociopolitical and overall cultural context for the major playwrights and theatrical traditions. Significant dramatists are studied and numerous works from Egyptian Ritual of 2500 BCE to the Spanish Golden Age of1640 CE are read, discussed and analyzed; the cultural framework of each period is examined. Film and video clips display performance traditions as well as theatre architecture, make up, costuming and performance styles. Oral presentations and attendance at play performances supplement the coursework. Theatre Roots: Theatre History II 3 credits TR109 In this course, students will trace the development of contemporary Western theatre by examining dramatic texts from 19th century realism to the present. Emphasis is placed on the influence of Ibsen, Chekhov, and Strindberg. Students will explore the conventions of each period, compare acting styles, and analyze the role of politics, economics, and philosophy in developing theatre.
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Great Playwrights: Eugene ONeill, Tennessee Williams, August Wilson 3 credits TR201 This course will explore the life, historical relevance and major work of these three key American playwrights via readings, discussion, performance projects and filmed versions of various plays. The period covered will extend from Eugene O'Neill's fundamental contributions to American theatre in the 1920s-40s, through Tennessee Williams groundbreaking work in poetic realism in the 1940s-60s, to August Wilson's major contributions to American theatre in his exploration of the AfricanAmerican experience in the twentieth century. Adaptations: Short Fiction and Drama 3 credits TR204 This class will focus on great short fiction that transformed into films and theatre. Students will read writers both classic and contemporary, and analyze how their work has been adapted into plays and films. If you ever wondered what inspired the films Brokeback Mountain or All About Eve, or shows like Cabaret, Ballad of the Sad Caf and others, youll find out here. Along the way, youll read classic stories by key writers like Anton Chekhov, James Joyce, Carson McCullers, Christopher Isherwood and Lillian Hellman. Great Playwrights of the Modern Theatre: 19451975 3 credits TR205 This class introduces students to nine of the most important playwrights of the modern era and nine of their most influential and indispensable plays. Political, poetic, philosophical, fantastic and darkly comic, these writers profoundly changed the way we experience theatre today, and these examples of their work form a compelling portrait of our challenging times. Henrik Ibsen, August Strindberg, Anton Chekhov 3 credits TR206 This course is an in-depth exploration of three key playwrights (Henrik Ibsen, August Strindberg and Anton Chekhov) whose groundbreaking plays in the late 19th century led to the birth of modern drama. Works will be examined in the context of the periods sweeping innovations in politics, technology, philosophy, art and literature. History of American Musical Theatre 3 credits TR211 This course is a select, yet comprehensive study of the American Musical Theatre covering the time period of 1875-1943 which includes the dawning of the Golden Age of Musical Theatre. Contemporary Musical Theatre History 3 credits TR215 To give students a thorough understanding of the modern history of musical theatre, specifically from 1943 Present. African American Theatre 3 credits TR216 This course is a survey of works written by African American playwrights either from the six different eras in African American history or works depicting that era. The eras are: African Arrival (1619 1776), Plantation Life & The Civil War (1776 1865), Reconstruction & The Harlem Renaissance (1865 1950), Jim Crow and the Civil Rights Movement (1950 1969), The Black Arts Movement (1970 1985), and The New Millennium (1985 2010). Symbolism & Expressionism 3 credits TR217 At the turn of the 20th century, new ideas which challenged the supremacy of 19th century realism began to emerge and to seriously influence the direction of modern Drama and performance techniques. Symbolism and Expressionism were two of the most important alternative artistic movements to emerge in this period, and they paved the way for most of the th experimental theatre of the 20 century
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Course Offerings and Descriptions New York Campus

Courses are subject to change each semester
AMDA New York Conservatory Programs (2 Year)

Integrated Program [Acting, Musical Theatre and Dance]
FIRST SEMESTER 1200 Acting I 6 hours weekly The student is instructed in performing physical actions with truthfulness, economy, specificity, and spontaneity. Creating physical intentions and using specific locations to emphasize this work. Scene study work is applied with assignments from contemporary American drama. 1300 Musical Theatre I: Techniques 7 hours weekly The primary focus of this course is the development of essential skills and techniques necessary to perform material from musical theatre repertoire. A practical, step-by-step method which encompasses the integration of acting and singing techniques is explored through class work and performance application. Modern repertoire from the 1960's to present day is explored in this course. 1320 Musical Theatre Film Lab I 1 hour weekly In direct collaboration with musical theatre class, students view a series of films and clips of performers creating the original roles in musical theatre. Assignments and classroom discussion enhance the experience in musical theatre class as students apply what they have viewed to their own work. Dance I: 1500 Theatre Dance 1521 Jazz 1511 Tap 1531 Ballet 6 hours weekly, 1.5 hours per class The dance program offers weekly classes in jazz, ballet, tap, and theatre dance. Training includes work on the body in space as it relates to other dancers and to the stage. Emphasis is placed on the development of professional attitudes and conduct as well as taking and responding to direction. The student is placed in beginning, intermediate, or advanced classes according to skill level in each discipline. 1340 Musicianship 1 2 hours weekly Based on prior musical training, the student is placed in levels from beginner to advance. Fundamentals of notation, keys, and musical terminology are taught. The more advanced student examines harmony, musical structure, melody shapes, and relationships of words to music. Additional focus is placed on realizing the intent of the composer and lyricist toward the performance of musical theatre with insight and understanding. 1400 Voice and Speech 1 4 hours weekly The components of the voice are defined and practical exercises are utilized with the goal of developing, health, natural and career sustaining vocal technique. Aspects of this include components of voice, relaxation, breath, production of tone, range of voice, elongation of breath and tone, and the seven long vowels.
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1600 Individual Voice I 1 hour weekly The production of a free, unconstructed sound is the central goal of this course. Careful attention is given to correct posture and breathing, the release of physical constrictions, and to the singing of pure vowels. The student is placed in a small group or a private lesson according to experience. 1100 Performing Arts Practicum I 7 hours weekly minimum Each semester,the student is required to record their performing arts observations and rehearsals. Designed as a companion to document their progress, this practicum will help provide insight to the body and its use as the actor's instrument. Students will keep a weekly log of independent rehearsals and observations outside of class. Under this practicum, students will reflect on in-class activities through the composition of a relevant essay. SECOND SEMESTER 2100 Performing Arts Practicum II 7 hours weekly minimum Each semester the student is required to record their performing arts observations and rehearsals. Designed as a companion to document their progress, this practicum will help provide insight to the body and its use as the actor's instrument. Students will keep a weekly log of independent rehearsals and observations outside of class. Under this practicum, students will reflect on in-class activities through the composition of a relevant essay. 2200 Acting II: Scene Study 6 hours weekly The student is provided with methods to analyze a text, to rehearse scenes, and to bring to life the characters and stories within the text. Techniques for demonstrating the who, what, when, where and why in preparing a role will be developed. Character work will be introduced with exercises such as life-study observation to create natural human behavior in the scenes. 2300 Musical Theatre II: Performance Styles 6.5 hours weekly. Using techniques acquired in the first semester, the student is guided to develop further musical theatre skills through preparation, research, and performance in class. The history and styles of musical theatre are explored through assignments that include Gilbert and Sullivan, operetta, vaudeville, the roaring twenties, the jazzy thirties, and the golden age of integrated book musicals of the forties and fifties. 2320 Musical Theatre Film Lab II 1 hour weekly The student views a variety of films and film clips that demonstrate the different performance styles of the musical theatre repertoire from 1900 to the present. These clips are narrated by a musical theatre faculty member, and discussion of these clips is integrated into the classroom activity of musical theatre class. Dance II: 2500 Theatre Dance 2521 Jazz 2511 Tap 2531 Ballet 6 hours weekly, 1.5 hours per class These courses continue the work of first semester dance classes in theatre dance, jazz, tap, and ballet. Particular attention is focused on dynamics, musical phrasing, the use of space, partnering, solo entrances and exits, performance skills, and being on the mark. The student continues in the assigned level according to skill.
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2340 Musicianship II 1.5 hours weekly Each student continues the development of musicianship skills at his/her own level including work in song form, sight-singing, harmony, keyboard skills, and transposition. 2400 Voice Production and Speech II 4 hours weekly The 13 vowel scale and diphthongs are introduced. Vocal exercises with simple and combined consonants are utilized. The student is introduced to the use of rhythm in verse. Work on breath, placement, and production of tone continues. 2600 Individual Voice II 1 hour weekly This course is a continuation of the first semester, emphasizing the development of technique. At least one song in the classical repertoire is studied. The practice of correct vocal technique is applied to musical theatre songs. By the second semester, each student is assigned an individual voice instructor. THIRD SEMESTER 3200 Acting III: Intermediate Scene Study 6.5 hours weekly The techniques and resources of the acting craft that were explored in the first year are practiced. Monologues from modern plays, duet scenes-both modern and Shakespearean, and group scenes in the American realistic genre are rehearsed in such a way as to strive toward truthful, exciting moments on stage. 3300 Musical Theatre III: Scene Study 9 hours weekly The student explores a series of assigned scenes in which the book of a musical is integrated with its score, focusing on the skills needed to perform in a musical. Duets, trios, and small group scenes are assigned. The student also has the opportunity to work on material of his/her own choosing. Solo work continues throughout the semester. In addition, ensemble work is integrated into the second portion of the semester. A director/ choreographer and musical director work together with the students to prepare a final project that integrates skill areas including choral singing, harmony, sight-singing, staging, choreography, and character study. The project is selected from the major choruses of musical theatre literature. Dance III: 3500 Theatre Dance 3521 Jazz 3511 Tap 3531 Ballet 6 hours weekly, 1. 5 hours per class. The third semester introduces the rehearsal process and audition techniques. Additionally, falls and partnering with lifts are taught. Work continues in dance technique, spatial awareness, and the importance of performance skills regardless of technical ability. Assigned level according to skill is maintained. 3600 Individual Voice III 1 hour weekly Work on the development of vocal technique continues. Material is selected from the early English and Italian repertoires. Difficulty and range increase according to the student's progress. Vocal work on musical theatre songs is continued. 3100 Performing Arts Practicum III 7 hours weekly minimum Each semester the student is required to record their performing arts observations and rehearsals. Designed as a companion to document their progress, this practicum will help provide insight to the body and its use as the actor's instrument. Students will keep a weekly log of independent rehearsals and observations outside of class. Under this practicum, students will reflect on in-class activities through the composition of a relevant essay. FOURTH SEMESTER
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4600 Individual Voice IV 5 hours weekly Work on technique and on the classical and musical theatre repertoires continues with the additional focus on material for presentation 4700 Career Preparation 5 hours per week for two weeks Discussions are held with an agent and/or casting director about the business aspects of being an actor. Interviews, auditions, pictures and resumes, mailings, and similar professional responsibilities and processes are reviewed. Integrated Electives 3 hours weekly The following electives are offered to integrated program students in all semesters unless otherwise noted. Students are encouraged to take the classes listed below; however the following classes are not required for graduation. 1401 Dialects Merging the techniques and components of voice and speech while studying speech patterns from around the world to master regional dialects for the stage. Students delve into specified dialect work designed to increase the actors casting potential. Coursework includes advanced use of IPA symbols in addition to the reinforcement of voice production, warm-ups and a comprehensive vocal technique. Dialects explored in class are subject to prior dialect success, student abilities and teacher assignment. Offered to second, third and fourth semester students. 4080 Caf Performance Series The Caf Performance Series gives students the opportunity to present work from all performing arts genres in an intensely focused caf/cabaret setting. Performances are comprised of individual performance pieces to celebrate all of the performing arts venues and to give students a regular opportunity to perform. 1346 Composition Techniques The focus is for students to explore the composition of their own music. The process allows a student to start with a concept and to see it through to performance. Students are guided and encouraged to write music, lyrics, building harmonies and even perform an original piece by the end of the course. 1401 Sight Singing Review Each student is invited to develop their musicianship skills at their own level from beginner to advanced training at weekly review sessions. Focus is placed on fundamentals of notation; keys and musical terminology are also reviewed. Emphasis is also placed on musical structure, melody shapes and relationships to the words within music.
Studio Program [Acting for Film, Stage and Television]

FIRST SEMESTER 5250 Acting I: Beginning Scene Study 5 hours weekly Working in conjunction with the Techniques and Resources class, this course employs an imaginative and fundamental approach to scene study and performance. Using outstanding scenes from contemporary American realism, the student is taught text exploration. Through rehearsal and in-class coaching, students are shown techniques to make compelling acting choices. 5255 Acting I: Techniques 5 hours weekly The student focuses on the techniques employed to present aspects of human nature through believable characterization. A variety of acting techniques is examined. In addition, the student explores sensory work, acting and trust exercises, and other methods of freeing the imagination. These ideas are utilized in a series of individually coached acting etudes.
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5265 Improvisation I 4 hours weekly This course is designed to enhance and strengthen the student's range, imagination, and physical choices. The student is taught to interact spontaneously with fellow actors and to establish the foundations for a heightened sense of physical freedom. 5800 Stage Combat I 3 hours weekly Basic unarmed stage combat techniques are developed. Stamina-building exercises are central to this course which emphasizes physical conditioning. 5275 Living Masterpieces of the Stage I 2 hours weekly th Dramatic texts from the Greek through medieval and the Elizabethan through the 18 century world of Moliere and the Restoration are explored. Special emphasis is placed on the works of Shakespeare. Numerous plays are read, discussed, and analyzed; the cultural framework of each period is examined. Film and video clips display performance traditions as well as theatre architecture, make-up, and costuming. 5400 Voice Production and Speech I 4 hours weekly The components of the voice are defined and practical exercises are utilized with the goal of developing healthy, natural, and career sustaining vocal technique. Among the aspects covered are components of voice, relaxation, breath, production of tone, range of voice, elongation of breath and tone, and the seven long vowels. 5500 Dance and Movement for the Actor I 3 hours weekly The focus is on the development of physical awareness, flexibility, and precision as it relates to movement for the stage. Exercises will include work on spatial relationships, posture, rhythmic accuracy, and stamina. Elective I 3 hours weekly Students select one elective each semester. Electives may include: 5290 Shakespeare Merging the techniques of acting, movement, and voice and speech, the student performs scenes from Shakespeare. Classic texts are analyzed and the cultural milieus investigated, enriching the students creativity, imagination, and aesthetic judgment. 5690 Singing Technique Introduction to the beginning elements of vocal technique and musicianship. Students explore vocal performance skills while working on a presentation of selected solos, duets and small ensembles. Skill elements will include exploration in depth exploration of breath support and management, vocal onset, resonance, melody, rhythm, and harmony. 5590 Jazz Dance This course offers weekly classes in jazz dance. Training includes work on the body in space as it relates to other dancers and to the stage. Emphasis is placed on the development of professional attitudes and conduct as well as taking and responding to direction while learning new dance combinations. 5100 Performing Arts Practicum I 7 hours weekly minimum Each semester, the student is required to record their performing arts observations and rehearsals. Designed as a companion to document their progress, this practicum will help provide insight to the body and its use as the actor's instrument. Students will keep a weekly log of independent rehearsals and observations outside of class. Under this practicum, students will reflect on in-class activities through the composition of a relevant essay.
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SECOND SEMESTER 6250 Acting II: Intermediate Scene Study 5 hours weekly Working with the Techniques and Resources class, this course demonstrates techniques to sharpen skills in text analysis as they apply to developing a character. Scenes are chosen from earlier American periods, especially the 30's, 40's, and 50's. Rehearsal and performance of these scenes emphasize research into vernacular and stylistic modes of the best American writing during this time. 6255 Acting II: Techniques and Resources 5 hours weekly Building on the work of the first semester, this course continues to examine the craft of acting by emphasizing physical characterization. The student applies techniques that allow him/her to inhabit the role within the given circumstances of the play. It is designed to empower the student to make bold, intelligent, creative, and well researched physical choices. Exercises include vocal characterization, physical improvisation, and acting etudes. 6260 Acting for Film and Television I 4 hours weekly Practical training and experience in acting methods and techniques for film and television are utilized. Scene study and monologue work on camera are included. The working vocabulary used in the industry is introduced. 6265 Improvisation II 3 hours weekly Course work includes further development of kinesthetic and sensory awareness with advanced exercises in concentration and point of focus. The student will be instructed in making strong and intelligent choices within the context of an ensemble and group. Problem solving, moment-to-moment interaction, and spontaneity are emphasized. 6275 Living Masterpieces of the Stage II 2 hours weekly th The reading, analysis, and discussion of numerous pivotal plays from 19 century Realism and Naturalism to the present trace the development of contemporary Western theatre. The texts are placed within their social and cultural frameworks, and the th influence of Ibsen, Chekov, Strindberg, and Stanislavski on the 20 century is emphasized. Museum visits, oral presentations, and film and video clips supplement the readings. 6400 Voice Production and Speech II 4 hours weekly The 13 vowel scale and diphthongs are introduced. Vocal exercises with simple and combined consonants are utilized. The student is introduced to the use of rhythm in verse. Work on breath, placement, and production of tone continues. 6550 Dance and Movement for the Actor II 3 hours weekly Emphasis continues on the development of professional attitudes and conduct as well as taking and responding to direction. The student works for a greater focus of the mind, consciousness of the body, and the ability to move from stillness with greater clarity. Basic dance forms and partnering are introduced. 6100 Performing Arts Practicum II 7 hours weekly minimum Each semester the student is required to record their performing arts observations and rehearsals. Designed as a companion to document their progress, this practicum will help provide insight to the body and its use as the actor's instrument. Students will keep a weekly log of independent rehearsals and observations outside of class. Under this practicum, students will reflect on in-class activities through the composition of a relevant essay.
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THIRD SEMESTER 7250 Acting III: Advanced Scene Study 7 hours weekly The techniques and resources of the acting craft that were explored in the first year are put into practice. Monologues from modern plays, duet scenes-both modern and Shakespearean, and group scenes in the American realistic genre are rehearsed in such a way as to bring about truthful, exciting moments on stage. 7260 Acting for Film and Television II 4.5 hours weekly Working on camera with monologues and group scenes, students identify and explore beat changes, rhythm, conflict, and dimension of character. In addition to offering continued practical training and experience in acting methods and techniques for film and television, the business aspects of the industry are examined with an emphasis on beginning a career in film, television, and commercial work. Elective III 1.5 hours weekly Students select one elective each semester. Electives may include: 7291 Cold Reading Using a wide cross-section of scripts for stage, film, and television, the student practices reading cold for auditions. Techniques for more effective auditions are suggested, and a series of audition interviews is simulated. 7690 Singing Technique Introduction to the beginning elements of vocal technique and musicianship. Students explore vocal performance skills while working on a presentation of selected solos, duets and small ensembles. Skill elements will include in depth exploration of breath support and management, vocal onset, resonance, melody, rhythm, and harmony. 7590 Jazz Dance This course offers weekly classes in jazz dance. Training includes work on the body in space as it relates to other dancers and to the stage. Emphasis is placed on the development of professional attitudes and conduct as well as taking and responding to direction while learning new dance combinations. 7100 Performing Arts Practicum III 7 hours weekly minimum Each semester the student is required to record their performing arts observations and rehearsals. Designed as a companion to document their progress, this practicum will help provide insight to the body and its use as the actor's instrument. Students will keep a weekly log of independent rehearsals and observations outside of class. Under this practicum, students will reflect on in-class activities through the composition of a relevant essay. FOURTH SEMESTER Performance Projects 8200 Drama Showcase 32 hours weekly for five weeks 8800 Stage Combat 4 3 hours weekly for five weeks Advanced techniques with rapiers, broadsword, and dagger are introduced by teaching fights scenes from movies and staged productions. 8400 Advance Voice and Speech 3 hours for 5 weeks Training continues with emphasis placed on consonant work and the connection of breath to sound. This semester culminates in individual work on monologues in preparation of entering the professional audition world.
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8201 Acting 4: Rehearsal Projects 30 hours weekly for five weeks The techniques and resources of the acting craft that were explored over all semesters are incorporated in this course. It includes monologues, duet scenes and group scenes from modern plays, Shakespearean, and the American realistic genre. They are rehearsed in such a way to bring about truthful, exciting moments on stage. 8010 Final Film Project 27.5 hours weekly for five weeks This class puts the student in front of the camera, using actual scripts used to audition actors for roles in film, sitcoms, soaps, and commercials. Students will then participate in all aspects from production, acting and set building that results in being a part of a professional filmed scene. All students leave the program with a professional scene to present to agents. 8262 Cold Readings for Auditions 4 hours per week for five weeks Using a wide cross-section of scripts for stage, film, and television, the student practices reading cold for auditions. Techniques for more effective auditions are suggested, and a series of audition interviews is simulated. 8265 Improvisation 4 4 hours weekly for five weeks Training continues to employs non-verbal scenes, sensory improvisation exercises, repetition exercises, verbal improvisation techniques and scene work with improvisation foundations. The student is taught to play honestly within a visceral environment and to interact spontaneously with the needs and responses of fellow actors. 8266 Monologues for Auditions 18 hours per week for five weeks Examining a wide range of scripts, the student is guided in choosing appropriate material. A contemporary dramatic monologue and a comedic piece are prepared. Suggestions for additional suitable material from Shakespeare to the present are also offered. 8055 Performance Workshop: Conception to Production 27.5 hours weekly for two weeks Under the guidance of a director, the student experiences a professional rehearsal process and participates in a performance project in AMDA's Off-Off-Broadway theatre. 8260 Auditioning for Film and Television 4 hours per week for two weeks This workshop puts the student in front of the camera, using actual scripts used to audition actors for roles in film, sitcoms, soaps, and commercials. Techniques for rapid script and character analysis are introduced; the process from submission to screen test is examined; and aspects of dress, appearance, demeanor, and protocol are discussed. 4700 Career Preparation 5 hours per session for two weeks Discussions are held with an agent and/or casting director about the business aspects of being an actor. Interviews, auditions, pictures and resumes, mailings, and similar professional responsibilities and processes are reviewed. 8100 Performing Arts Practicum IV 7 hours weekly minimum Each semester the student is required to record their performing arts observations and rehearsals. Designed as a companion to document their progress, this practicum will help provide insight to the body and its use as the actor's instrument. Students will keep a weekly log of independent rehearsals and observations outside of class. Under this practicum, students will reflect on in-class activities through the composition of a relevant essay.
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Extracurricular Classes 3 hours weekly The following electives are offered to studio program students in all semesters unless otherwise noted. Students are encouraged to take the classes listed below; however the following classes are not required for graduation. 5401 Dialects and Technique Merging the techniques and components of voice and speech while studying speech patterns from around the world to master regional dialects for the stage. Offered to second, third and fourth semester students. 4080 Caf Performance Series The Caf Performance Series gives students the opportunity to present work from all performing arts genres in an intensely focused caf/cabaret setting. Performances are comprised of individual performance pieces to celebrate all of the performing arts venues and to give students a regular opportunity to perform. 7273 Screenwriting The focus is for students to explore their voice in writing for screen. The process allows a student to start with a concept and to see it through to a performed reading. Students are guided and encouraged to write monologues, scenes or full screenplays by the end of the course. Course only offered to third and fourth semester students.
Dance Theatre Program [Dance for Stage, Film and Television]

FIRST SEMESTER DNC1100 Performing Arts Practicum I 7 hours weekly minimum Each semester the student is required to record their performing arts observations and rehearsals. Designed as a companion to document their progress, this practicum will help provide insight to the body and its use as the actor's instrument. Students will keep a weekly log of independent rehearsals and observations outside of class. Under this practicum, students will reflect on in-class activities through the composition of a relevant essay. Dance 1: DNC1500 Theatre Dance DNC1520 Jazz DNC1510 Tap 4.5 hours weekly, 1.5 hours per class The dance program offers weekly classes in jazz, ballet, tap, and theatre dance. Training includes work on the body in space as it relates to other dancers and to the stage. Emphasis is placed on the development of professional attitudes and conduct as well as taking and responding to direction. The student is placed in beginning, intermediate, or advanced classes according to skill level in each discipline. DNC1540 CORE Technique I: Beginning Ballet & Modern Technique 15 hours weekly Daily warm-up and technique training for dancers to build stamina and strength includes: floor bare, core strengthening, ballet bare, center bare and modern technique. Information regarding nutrition, injury prevention, and overall body preservation will be a component to this course. DNC1550 Dance History and Application I 3 hours weekly Through viewing filmed performances and archival footage, students will explore a chronicle of contemporary dance history. The course content examines a variety of outstanding choreography, dancers and choreographers. This course allows the student to engage in discussions regarding dance inventions and their continued use in dance performance today. After discussion, the students will participate in learning the types of dances that they viewed earlier in class.
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DNC1200 Acting I 6 hours weekly The student is instructed in performing physical actions with truthfulness, economy, specificity, and spontaneity. Physicalizing the intention and using specific locations are also emphasized in this work. Scene study work is applied with assignments from contemporary American drama. DNC1690 Vocal Performance: Beginning Technique 1.5 hours weekly This course is an introduction to the beginning elements of vocal technique and musicianship. Students explore vocal performance skills while working on a presentation of selected solos, duets and small ensembles. Skill elements will include exploration in depth exploration of breath support and management, vocal onset, resonance, melody, rhythm, and harmony. SECOND SEMESTER Dance II: DNC2500 Theatre Dance DNC2520 Jazz DNC2510 Tap 1.5 hours per class weekly These courses continue the work of first semester dance classes in theatre dance, jazz, tap, and ballet. Particular attention is focused on dynamics, musical phrasing, the use of space, partnering, solo entrances and exits, performance skills, and being on the mark. The student continues in the assigned level according to skill. DNC2540 CORE Technique II: Intermediate Ballet and Modern Technique 15 hours weekly Daily warm-up and technique training for dancers to build stamina and strength includes: floor barre, core strengthening, ballet barre, center barre and modern technique. Information regarding nutrition, injury prevention, and overall body preservation will be a component to this course. DNC2550 Dance History and Application II 3 hours weekly Through viewing filmed performances and archival footage, students will explore a chronicle of contemporary dance history. The course content examines a variety of outstanding choreography, dancers and choreographers. This course allows the student to engage in discussions regarding dance inventions and their continued use in dance performance today. After discussion the students will participate in learning the types of dances that they viewed earlier in class. DNC1300 Musical Theatre I: Techniques 7 hours weekly The primary focus of this course is the development of essential skills and techniques necessary to perform material from musical theatre repertoire. A practical, step-by-step method which encompasses the integration of acting and singing techniques is explored through class work and performance application. Modern repertoire from the 1960's to present day is explored in this course. DNC2100 Performing Arts Practicum II 7 hours weekly minimum Each semester, the student is required to record their performing arts observations and rehearsals. Designed as a companion to document their progress, this practicum will help provide insight to the body and its use as the actor's instrument. Students will keep a weekly log of independent rehearsals and observations outside of class. Under this practicum, students will reflect on in-class activities through the composition of a relevant essay.
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THIRD SEMESTER Dance III: DNC3500 Theatre Dance DNC3520 Jazz DNC3510 Tap 1. 5 hours weekly. The third semester introduces the rehearsal process and audition techniques. Additionally, falls and partnering with lifts are taught. Work continues in dance technique, spatial awareness, and the importance of performance skills regardless of technical ability. Assigned level according to skill is maintained. DNC3540 CORE Technique III: Advanced Ballet and Modern Technique 15 hours weekly Daily warm-up and technique training for dancers to build stamina and strength includes: floor barre, core strengthening, ballet barre, center barre and modern technique. Information regarding nutrition, injury prevention, and overall body preservation will be a component to this course. DNC3550 Dance History and Application III 3 hours weekly Through viewing filmed performances and archival footage, students will explore a chronicle of contemporary dance history. The course content examines a variety of outstanding choreography, dancers and choreographers. This course allows the student to engage in discussions regarding dance inventions and their continued use in dance performance today. After discussion the students will participate in learning the types of dances that they viewed earlier in class. DNC2300 Musical Theatre II: Performance Styles 7 hours weekly Using techniques acquired in the first semester, the student is guided to develop further musical theatre skills through preparation, research, and performance in class. The history and styles of musical theatre are explored through assignments that include Gilbert and Sullivan, operetta, vaudeville, the roaring twenties, the jazzy thirties, and the golden age of integrated book musicals of the forties and fifties. DNC1600 Individual Voice I 1 hour weekly The production of a free, unconstructed sound is the central goal of this course. Careful attention is given to correct posture and breathing, the release of physical constrictions, and to the singing of pure vowels. The student is placed in a small group or a private lesson according to experience. DNC3101 Voice and Movement Warmup III: Practice 1 hour per week, classes offered daily Part of being a successful actor is having the tools to warm-up and prepare oneself for auditions or any performance opportunities. This course provides tools that build on each other to allow an actor to vocally and physically prepare themselves for any situation. A student is required to attend one session a week but is offered the opportunity to attend daily classes that involve physical and vocal warm-up techniques. DNC3100 Performing Arts Practicum III 7 hours weekly minimum Each semester, the student is required to record their performing arts observations and rehearsals. Designed as a companion to document their progress, this practicum will help provide insight to the body and its use as the actor's instrument. Students will keep a weekly log of independent rehearsals and observations outside of class. Under this practicum, students will reflect on in-class activities through the composition of a relevant essay.
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FOURTH SEMESTER DNC4263 Advanced Dance: Dance Audition Techniques 15 hours for 5 weeks Students will be presented with strategies for successfully learning and performing dance combinations as they would apply in the environment of a professional dance audition. Students will hone their ability to dance effectively within a pressurized dance audition environment. A variety of styles will be used for the combinations. The use of a guest panel may be used to simulate the rigors of a professional audition experience. Performance Project: DNC9100 Dance Theatre Showcase 32 hours weekly for five weeks for each discipline This course will provide the student with a complete dance production experience. The production may include original works conceived, choreographed and performed by the students. Students will experience varied elements associated with a staged production such as costumes, lighting and set design. DNC9200 Dance: Career Prep and the Dancers Life 8 hours weekly for five weeks This Career Prep course is designed to give dancers a solid foundation for entering the performance industry. Valuable information regarding agents, companies and expanded work venues as they relate to a dancer's opportunity for employment and longevity will be explored. Interviews, auditions, pictures and resumes, mailings, and similar professional responsibilities are included. Industry guests may participate in class Q&A or workshop sessions. DNC9300 Advanced Dance: Techniques for Stage and Camera 12 hours weekly for five weeks In this course, emphasis is placed on the students ability to take and respond to direction. A strong focus is given to the development of physical awareness, flexibility and precision as it relates to finding your spot on the stage or in a camera shot. DNC4406 Choreography: The Choreographers Experience 32 hours for five weeks This course provides students an opportunity to examine the fundamentals of choreography and develop a personal choreographic vision. Students begin with an introduction to the basics: structure, story-telling through movement, use of music, time management, and effective communication with dancers. Students in both the The Choreographers Experience and The Dancers Experience version of this course will participate as dancers within students choreographic projects. This course may culminate in a performance for an invited audience. DN4301 Dance for the Camera I 4 hours weekly for five weeks Students will expand dance skills to encompass the specific rigors involved with movement pieces created for the camera. Key elements will include camera angles, storyboarding, and continuity of performance. Students will benefit by rehearsing, recording, viewing playback, discussing and improving their work with critique from the instructor. DNC4100 Survey of Dance I 4 hours weekly for five weeks Versatility and technical prowess will be challenged as students explore a variety of dance combinations in an array of styles. Genres which may be explored include: Broadway, Contemporary, Ballroom, Partnering, Hip-Hop, Court/Period and Improvisation. DNC4700 Career Preparation 5 hours per session for two weeks Discussions are held with an agent and/or casting director about the business aspects of being an actor. Interviews, auditions, pictures and resumes, mailings, and similar professional responsibilities and processes are reviewed.
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Extracurricular Classes: 3 hours weekly The following electives are offered to integrated program students in all semesters unless otherwise noted. Students are encouraged to take the classes listed below; however the following classes are not required for graduation. DNC4080 Caf Performance Series The Caf Performance Series gives students the opportunity to present work from all performing arts genres in an intensely focused caf/cabaret setting. Performances are comprised of individual performance pieces to celebrate all of the performing arts venues and to give students a regular opportunity to perform. DNC4100 Performing Arts Practicum IV 7 hours weekly minimum Each semester the student is required to record their performing arts observations and rehearsals. Designed as a companion to document their progress, this practicum will help provide insight to the body and its use as the actor's instrument. Students will keep a weekly log of independent rehearsals and observations outside of class. Under this practicum, students will reflect on in-class activities through the composition of a relevant essay.
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LEARNING FACILITIES
Classroom
AMDA classroom facilities consist of column-free dance studios, a variety of acting studios, a multitude of individual voice rooms, black box theatres, and general education classrooms. Classes at the New York campus are held at 211 West 61 Street and also at the Ansonia, located on Broadway at 73 Street. Classes at the Los Angeles campus are held at 6305 Yucca and 1777 Vine Street.
Library
The AMDA Performing Arts Library houses an extensive collection of performing arts materials, including over 75,000 individual pieces of sheet music, 6,000 play scripts, nearly 1,000 piano/vocal scores, 800 songbooks, 900 musical librettos, 300 screenplays, 2,000 audio recordings, 2,000 video recordings, and numerous source materials, biographies, autobiographies, reference sources and additional research materials. All Library patrons must have a valid AMDA ID card to access the Library collections.
FINANCIAL PLANNING
COST OF ATTENDANCE
Tuition and Fees The following is the direct cost of education for one academic year. Each year's price depends on the semester in which the student begins taking courses. Housing costs are subject to change each year. These housing costs are for students living in AMDA's Student Housing. Students who choose to secure housing on their own should expect housing costs to be higher than those listed here. 2011/2012 (2 semesters) Tuition and fees: Housing and fees: Books and supplies: Total Tuition and Housing: Total Program Charges Conservatory $29,960 6,700 * 1,000 * $37,660 * $61,920 * BFA Program $29,960 6,700 * 1,000 * $37,660 * $123,840 *
*Estimated Charges: AMDA reserves the right to adjust tuition, housing, and other fees, if necessary.
Living Expenses Living expenses for the year are estimated to be about $200 per week. This estimate includes the cost of food, transportation, laundry and miscellaneous living expenses. Please remember that this is an estimated average cost, and individual student expenses may be more or less than this amount depending on personal needs and living habits. Students are encouraged to make a budget for their living expenses. Students who would like additional assistance and budgeting resource materials may contact the Financial Aid Office. Books & Supplies Book requirements vary based on the semester and the program of study. Estimated costs for textbooks for the first academic year are approximately $1,000 for the conservatory students (two-year programs) and BFA students (four-year programs). Students will be provided detailed information regarding books and supplies upon acceptance.
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FINANCIAL AID
Financial aid assistance is available to help pay for the students education. Major forms of financial aid include gift aid (grants and scholarships) and self-help aid (loans and work). In order to be considered for most financial aid programs, you must first complete the FAFSA. AMDA awards several million dollars in institutional funding (scholarships and grants) to students each year. Our financial aid packages can encompass institutional, federal, state and private funding programs. Below you will find a complete list of all financial aid programs, including the eligibility criteria for each one. For additional information please refer to our website at www.amda.edu.
Institutional Funding
GRANTS AND SCHOLARSHIPS AMDA Scholarships Institutionally funded merit-based awards given to students based on the results of the audition and application process. Criteria: Audition and application for first-year admission. AMDA Grant Institutionally funded, need-based awards given to students based on the FAFSA. Criteria: Financial need based on results from the FAFSA. AMDA FirstYear Summer Grant Institutionally funded, need-based awards given to students who begin study during the summer semester. Criteria: Results of FAFSA and financial need.
Federal, State and Private Funding

FEDERAL GRANTS & WORK STUDY PROGRAMS Federal Pell Grant Federally funded, need-based grant program. Criteria: Financial need as determined by filing the FAFSA. Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant Federal and institution-funded, school-administered, need-based grant program. Criteria: Available to Pell-eligible students. Cal Grant State funded; California offers a grant to eligible students who are residents and attending the Los Angeles campus. The state determines the criteria for eligibility and award amounts. Criteria: California state residency; attend the Los Angeles campus. Must file the FAFSA prior to March 1 in order to be considered for the entitlement program; based on financial need and high school/college GPA verification. Federal Work Study Federal and institution-funded, school-administered student employment program. Criteria: Financial need; student interest; U.S. citizen or permanent resident. Must file FAFSA form LOAN PROGRAMS Federal Stafford Loans Stafford loans are educational loans that need to be paid back. Loans are guaranteed by the federal government and funded through the United States Department of Education. Criteria: Students must file a FAFSA form to participate in federal loan programs. Federal Parent PLUS Loans Through this government program, a parent or guardian can apply for a non-need-based, low-interest loan. These funds can be applied toward the student's tuition, supplies, housing and other eligible school expenses. Criteria: Credit approval of the parent applying.
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Private/Alternative Loans Parents and students may apply for a range of credit-based, privately funded loans through a bank of their choice. Applicants may borrow up to the cost of the student's attendance less any financial aid as determined by the AMDA financial aid office. Students will have the responsibility to repay the full amount of the loan plus interest, less the amount of any refund, and that, if the student has received federal student financial aid funds, the student is entitled to a refund of the moneys not paid from federal student financial aid program funds. DISCLOSURE AMDA Simple Tuition Lender List Simple tuition provides students and parents with a list of lenders that AMDA recommends for alternative loan options. Please note that you are not limited to using one of these lenders. You are welcome to secure a loan from any lender you wish. The lenders we have chosen to list on our simple tuition site are listed because we feel they are excellent, reputable, lending institutions, which we have a solid history working with. We feel they all provide good customer service, competitive interest rates/fees and excellent repayment options. Please also note that we strongly recommend you use all of your federal student loan eligibility before determining your need for an alternative loan.
TUITION REFUND INFORMATION

Cancellation Policy Students Right to Cancel: You may cancel your enrollment agreement and receive a refund of charges paid through attendance at the first class session, or the seventh day after enrollment, whichever is later by providing a written notice to the Director of Education, AMDA-LA, 6305 Yucca Street, Los Angeles, CA 90028. Refund Policy The Student has a right to a full refund of all charges if she/he cancels the enrollment agreement prior to or on the first day of instruction. In addition, the student may withdraw from a course after instruction has started and receive a pro-rated refund for the unused portion of the tuition and other refundable charges, provided the student has completed 30% or less of the instruction. If the school cancels or discontinues a course or educational program, the school will make a full refund of all charges. Refunds will be paid within 45 days of cancellation or withdrawal. The return of federal funds will be administered in accordance with the United States Department of Education regulations. The amount of the refund shall be the amount the student paid for instruction multiplied by a percentage based on the number of weeks attended, less the $50 non-refundable application fee. This calculation is based on a per semester basis. Withdrawal Policy Withdrawal Policy Acknowledgment: This information is provided to ensure that AMDA students and other individuals who are responsible for paying the students educational expenses are fully aware of the policies regarding withdrawals and refunds and/or credits. AMDA defines withdrawals as voluntary withdrawals, dismissals or suspensions. The student is required to sign a Withdrawal Policy Acknowledgment Form before attending classes. If the student is not financially responsible, the person responsible for the students educational expenses must sign the form in addition to the student. It is AMDAs policy that as of the first day of the semester, students are responsible for charges as follows: 1. If a student withdraws, the student may be eligible for a refund and/or credit of a portion of the tuition paid. There are no credits or refunds for housing fees or housing charges. 2. If the student withdraws, the student should complete the appropriate documents through the Education Office in order to be eligible for a refund and/or credit of a portion of the semesters tuition charge. 3. If the student withdraws, AMDA uses the last date of class attendance as the date of withdrawal. Calculations regarding tuition refunds and/or credits are based on the withdrawal date. 4. In order to be eligible for a refund and/or credit, the amount of payments made to the students account must be greater than the amount due to the school after the withdrawal calculation in accordance with this policy. 5. For the conservatory program, after nine weeks of classes in a semester, there are no tuition refunds. For the BFA program, after five weeks of classes in a semester, there are no tuition refunds. 6. This policy applies to all withdrawals, dismissals and suspensions. Reasons for dismissal from AMDA include but are not limited to:
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a. b. c.
Failure to meet the standards of satisfactory academic progress in the program. (A grade point average that falls below 2.0 in any semester and/or in the cumulative GPA or, for conservatory students, not completing 900 clock-hours within your first year or, for BFA students, not completing two-thirds of attempted credit hours) Failure to fulfill financial obligations in any student accounts, including tuition and housing charges. Failure to meet AMDAs academic standards (such as attendance requirements), and/or professional standards, including personal conduct in school or school-related facilities (i.e., housing). Appraisals of behavior are at the discretion of AMDA staff and/or housing personnel.
AMDA complies with the U.S. Department of Educations policy on the return of Title IV Federal Funds (R2T4). No Title IV funds will be returned to the lender or to the Department of Education if the student withdraws, is dismissed, or suspended after completing 60% (conservatory) or 30% (BFA) of the semester for which the funds were awarded. However, if the student withdraws, is dismissed or suspended before completing 60% (conservatory) or 30% (BFA) of the semester, funds will be returned by the school based on the percentage of the program completed by the student. In the event that the student is responsible for returning funds previously disbursed, AMDA will notify the student of this responsibility. If Title IV funds are returned, resulting in a balance on the students AMDA account, the student is required to pay the school directly. Please review the complete Return of Title (R2T4) policy. Student Tuition Recovery Fund The State of California created the Student Tuition Recovery Fund (STRF) to relieve or mitigate economic losses suffered by students in educational programs who are California Residents, or are enrolled in a residency program attending certain schools regulated by the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education. You may be eligible for STRF if you are a California resident or are enrolled in a residency program, prepaid tuition, paid STRF assessment, and suffered an economic loss as a result of any of the following: The school closed before the course of instruction was completed. The school's failure to pay refunds or charges on behalf of a student to a third party for license fees or any other purpose, or to provide equipment or materials for which a charge was collected within 180 days before the closure of the school. 3. The school's failure to pay or reimburse loan proceeds under a federally guaranteed student loan program as required by law or to pay or reimburse proceeds received by the school prior to closure in excess of tuition and other costs. 4. There was a material failure to comply with the Act or the Division within 30-days before the school closed or, if the material failure began earlier than 30-days prior to closure, the period determined by the Bureau. 5. An inability after diligent efforts to prosecute, prove, and collect on a judgment against the institution for a violation of the Act. You may also be eligible for STRF if you were a student that was unable to collect a court judgment rendered against the school for violation of the Private Postsecondary and Vocational Education Reform Act of 1989. You must pay the state-imposed assessment for the Student Tuition Recovery Fund (STRF) if all of the following applies to you: 1. You are a student in an educational program, who is a California resident, or are enrolled in a residency program, and prepays all or part of your tuition either by cash, guaranteed student loans, or personal loans, and 2. Your total charges are not paid by any third-party payer such as an employer, government program or other payer unless you have a separate agreement to repay the third party. You are not eligible for protection from the STRF and you are not required to pay the STRF fee if either of the following applies: 1. You are not a California resident or are not enrolled in a residency program, or 2. Your total charges are paid by a third party, such as an employer, government program or other payer, and you have no separate agreement to repay the third party. 1. 2.
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ACADEMICS
GRADING PROCEDURES
Grades are assigned as follows: A B C D F P I
*
Excellent Good Average Poor Failure Pass Incomplete
4 points per credit / clock hour 3 points per credit / clock hour 2 points per credit / clock hour 1 point per credit / clock hour * 0 points per credit / clock hour ** 0 points per credit / clock hour *** 0 points per credit / clock hour
Failure of a course will result in academic probation and possible dismissal from program. See Academic Regulations for more information. ** Pass/Fail courses must be passed in order for the student to remain in satisfactory academic standing. See Academic Regulations for more information. *** An Incomplete will be counted as 0 points per credit until the necessary work is made up and a passing grade is assigned. If the work is not made up by a stated date, the I will revert to an F. See Academic Regulations for more information. Grade Point Average AMDA students are required to maintain a GPA of 2.0 or above each semester. Students with a GPA less than 2.0 risk dismissal from the program and will require approval to remain in the program. Students receiving grades of I (Incomplete) and/or F (Fail) must resolve these grades to maintain their academic progress (see policies below under Failure and Incompletes). Students with unresolved failure and/or incomplete grades are ineligible to graduate.
Grade Appeals
Appeals Policy AMDA presumes that all grades assigned by instructors are correct. The responsibility for challenging any grade rests with the student. Basis for Appeal A student who believes that a grade has been assigned inappropriately must be able to demonstrate clerical error in the calculation of the grade, unfairness in the grading process, or capriciousness on the part of the teacher assigning the grade; otherwise the grade assigned by the instructor will be deemed final. Appeals Process 1. The student must meet face-to-face with the teacher within one week of the assignment of the grade. If the teacher is not available for a face-to-face meeting with the student, the student should alert Education Services, who will intervene on the students behalf and explore alternative options, such as a telephone meeting between the teacher and the student, or other communication options such as email or fax. a. If the student and teacher agree on a revised grade, the teacher will submit a revised grade to the Registrar within 2 business days of meeting with the student. b. If the grade dispute is not resolved between the student and teacher, and the student wishes to file a formal appeal, s/he must do so within 3 business days of meeting with the teacher by submitting a formal grade appeal to the Registrar, together with all supporting documentation to substantiate the appeal. c. The students formal appeal must be dated and signed, and include the students name, students section, course name, teacher name, grade assigned, grade desired, and rationale to support specific ground upon which the appeal is based. 2. The Registrars office will review the students request within 2 business days of receipt of a formal appeal. The Registrar will contact the student for any missing information, and the student is expected to provide missing information within 24 hours of the request. 3. After collecting all pertinent information and reviewing the formal appeal and all supporting documentation, the Registrars office will meet with the teacher to review the students performance.
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a. If the teacher agrees to a revised grade, the Registrars office will advise the student and process the revision in the student information system. b. If the teacher upholds the original grade, the Registrar will inform the student, who may then request that the appeal be escalated to the Appeals Committee. All requests for escalation must be in writing, dated and signed by the student. Appeals Committee The Appeals Committee is comprised of the Registrar, the Education Director, and a rotating Department Chair, Program Head, or another senior faculty member. The Appeals Committee will meet to review the students appeal and issue a formal ruling on the grade. All decisions by the Committee are final.
ACADEMIC REGULATIONS Satisfactory Academic Progress

Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP): Federal regulations require the Financial Aid Department to monitor the academic progress of students receiving financial aid. Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) is defined as the successful completion of course work toward an eligible certificate or degree. SAP standards apply to all students but students will be in jeopardy of losing their institutional and federal financial aid eligibility if they fall below AMDA SAP standards. These standards apply to a students entire academic record at AMDA, whether or not financial aid was received for prior terms of enrollment. Academic Requirements and Review Process: The Registrars records are reviewed at the end of each term to determine compliance with the SAP standards for the prior semester. The Financial Office notifies students who have not achieved the established satisfactory academic progress standards by letter of their academic probation or academic ineligibility status. There are three components to these standards: 1. Failure to meet the minimum cumulative grade point average. 2. Minimum grade point average. The SAP standards require a 2.0 cumulative grade point average (CGPA). Some scholarships may require a higher CGPA than the minimum required to remain in good standing. 3. Failure to meet minimum clock-hour or credit-hour requirements. Minimum clock-hours: Students are required to earn 900 clock-hours per academic year (two semesters). In the event that a student should repeat an entire semester, a student would need to earn 900 clock-hours over a period of two consecutive semesters. Exceeding the Duration of Eligibility The certificate course at AMDA is a four-semester program; any student enrolled more than six semesters will lose financial aid eligibility for the duration of his/her program.
Academic Violations
AMDAs rigorous curriculum is demanding. The Education Department makes every effort to support students in their studies and promote their success while at AMDA. The following actions may be taken if, for any reason, a student is not making sufficient academic progress. These actions may also be taken should a student display detrimental behavior to academic progress including, but not limited to, the following: academics, attendance, work ethic, classroom behavior, preparation, inappropriate behavior toward faculty or anything negatively affecting the students progress or the academic progress/performance of other students (including scene partners, performance collaborations, etc.). Academic Warning Academic Warnings are issued by faculty members and should be taken very seriously as an indication of the students failure to comply with standards and regulations. Probation Warning A Probation Warning may be issued when a student has demonstrated the inability to comply with the rules and regulations of AMDA, has had additional absences or incident(s) of misconduct, or is failing to make sufficient academic progress.
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Academic Probation Students on Academic Probation may continue their studies at AMDA so long as there are no additional academic/conduct violations, is making sufficient academic progress, and completes all required coursework for the semester. A student begins Academic Probation from the point they receive notification in writing. The probationary period will minimally extend for the remaining academic semester and for one additional semester. If a student remains in good standing and makes sufficient academic progress during the probationary period, they will automatically return to regular enrollment status for the subsequent semester. Academic Probation can lead to Academic Suspension or Dismissal depending on the nature and circumstances of subsequent violations. Academic Suspension Students who are suspended must immediately leave AMDA and discontinue all activity and contact associated with AMDA facilities, faculty, staff, and students. The student may only be in contact with the designated AMDA official for all business with the institution. The suspension period will begin from the point they receive notification in writing and will minimally be restricted from AMDA property/enrollment for the remainder of that semester and for one additional semester. Students who are suspended are not considered to be in good standing with the institution. Return to AMDA is not guaranteed and, if granted, will be conditional with requirements for return and continued enrollment. Suspension is the last step before dismissal from AMDA. Students who are suspended from AMDA will have a notation on their transcript indicating Suspension Not in Good Standing until such time that the suspension is rescinded. Dismissal Students who do not meet the requirements of previously issued warnings or sanctions may be academically dismissed from AMDA. Once dismissed, students are not eligible for readmission, reapplication, or study of any kind at AMDA NY or LA. Students who are dismissed from AMDA will have a permanent notation on their transcript indicating Dismissal Not in Good Standing. A student may be dismissed from AMDA for reasons including but not limited to the following: Failure to meet the standards of Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) in the program (semester or cumulative GPA may not fall below a 2.0). 2. Receiving a failing grade in any subject. 3. Failure to fulfill financial obligations in any student account including tuition and Housing. 4. Failure to meet AMDAs professional standards and expectations as stated in this Handbook including personal conduct in school and school-related facilities (i.e. housing). Appraisals of such behavior are at the discretion of AMDA staff and/or housing personnel. 5. Failure to meet attendance standards. 6. Failure to comply with AMDAs Outside Audition Policy. 7. Two consecutive semesters on academic or disciplinary probation will result in automatic dismissal. 8. Two semesters of academic suspension (not necessarily consecutive) will result in automatic dismissal. 9. Four consecutive semesters of non-enrollment. Note: If the student is in housing, they are required to vacate immediately upon dismissal. 1.
Withdrawal and Leave of Absence

Withdrawal In the event that a student withdraws, the student is required to meet with the Education Department to initiate the withdrawal process. Students will also meet with additional AMDA departments to complete an exit interview. See Withdrawal Policy Acknowledgement for a full description of financial accountability. It is important to note that students who withdraw are not automatically granted readmission. Any student who withdraws (voluntarily or involuntarily) or takes a leave of absence must apply for readmission (see Readmission Policy below). Voluntary Withdrawal Students may request to withdraw for any reason during an enrolled semester. Students who voluntarily withdraw will receive a prorated refund on tuition payments already received and will be in good standing to return to the Academy for future semesters. Students will not receive credit for withdrawn courses, although, a grade of I (Incomplete) may be assigned if the student is in good standing within the course/s and sufficient academic progress has been made.
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Involuntary Withdrawal AMDA may withdraw a student if: 1. Violation of Probation: Any student who is found responsible for academic or conduct violations while on probation will be withdrawn from courses and the Academy. 2. There are occasions where AMDA may determine that a student is unable to engage in the basic required activities necessary to obtain an education. Such a situation may occur when a student is unable to achieve academic progress. It may also arise when a student impedes the progress of others with their behavior. In the event that such a situation arises, AMDA will conduct an individualized assessment of the student in order to determine whether the student may remain enrolled in the program. A student will have a reasonable opportunity to be heard and respond before a final decision is made. In exigent circumstances, AMDA may take immediate measures to dismiss or withdraw a student. If such an immediate measure is necessary, the student will immediately thereafter be given an opportunity to be heard and to present his or her position and any information the student would like to be considered. If a student is involuntarily withdrawn, they may apply for Conditional Readmission to AMDA (see Readmission Policy below). The student has a right to a full refund of all charges if she/he cancels the enrollment agreement prior to or on the first day of instruction. In addition, the student may withdraw from a course after instruction has started and receive a prorated refund for the unused portion of the tuition and other refundable charges, provided the student has completed 60% or less of the instruction. If the school cancels or discontinues a course or educational program, the school will make a full refund of all charges. Refunds will be paid within 30-45 days of cancellation or withdrawal. The return of Federal funds will be administered in accordance with the United States Department of Education regulations. The amount of the refund shall be the amount the student paid for instruction multiplied by a fraction, the numerator of which is the number of hours of instruction which the student has paid. Withdrawal Impact on Financial Aid Students who enroll for both semesters of an academic year but withdraw during one of the semesters must still fulfill the minimum semester hour requirements of the SAP policy. Students who withdraw in two consecutive terms attended are ineligible for financial aid. Students who withdraw during the SAP probation semester without extenuating circumstances are ineligible for financial aid. Withdrawal Policy Acknowledgment This information is provided to ensure that AMDA students and other individuals who are responsible for paying the students educational expenses are fully aware of the policies regarding withdrawals and refunds and/or credits. AMDA defines withdrawals as voluntary withdrawals, dismissals or suspensions. The student is required to sign a Withdrawal Policy Acknowledgment Form before attending classes. If the student is not financially responsible, the person responsible for the students educational expenses must sign the form in addition to the student. Leaves of Absence Students admitted to AMDA are expected to attend a minimum of two semesters per academic year (there are three full semesters each year). A student who chooses not to enroll or is unable to enroll for more than one semester in an academic year must formally request a Leave of Absence if they intend to maintain their enrollment status. Failure to request a Leave of Absence may result in loss of good standing requiring an application for Conditional Readmission (see Readmission Policy below). It is AMDAs policy that as of the first day of the semester, students are responsible for charges as follows: 1. If a student withdraws, the student may be eligible for a refund and/or credit of a portion of the tuition paid. There are no credits or refunds for housing fees or housing charges. 2. If the student withdraws, the student should complete the appropriate documents through the Education Office in order to be eligible for a refund and/or credit of a portion of the semesters tuition charge. 3. If the student withdraws, AMDA uses the last date of class attendance as the date of withdrawal. Calculations regarding tuition refunds and/or credits are based on the withdrawal date. 4. In order to be eligible for a refund and/or credit, the amount of payments made to the students account must be greater than the amount due to the school after the withdrawal calculation in accordance with this policy. 5. After nine weeks of classes in a semester, there are no tuition refunds and/or credits. 6. This policy applies to all withdrawals, dismissals and suspensions. Reasons for dismissal from AMDA include but are not limited to:
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a. b. c.
Failure to meet the standards of satisfactory progress in the program. (A grade point average that falls below 2.0 in any semester and/or in the cumulative GPA or, for conservatory students, not completing 900 clock-hours within your first year or, for BFA students, not completing two-thirds of attempted credit hours) Failure to fulfill financial obligations in any student accounts, including tuition and housing charges. Failure to meet AMDAs academic standards (such as attendance requirements), and/or professional standards, including personal conduct in school or school-related facilities (i.e., housing). Appraisals of behavior are at the discretion of AMDA staff and/or housing personnel.
AMDA complies with the U.S. Department of Educations policy on the return of Title IV Federal Funds (R2T4). No Title IV funds will be returned to the lender or to the Department of Education if the student withdraws, is dismissed or suspended after completing 60% of the semester for which the funds were awarded. However, if the student withdraws, is dismissed or suspended before completing 60% of the semester, funds will be returned by the school based on the percentage of the program completed by the student. In the event that the student is responsible for returning funds previously disbursed, AMDA will notify the student of this responsibility. If Title IV funds are returned, resulting in a balance on the students AMDA account, the student is required to pay the school directly. Please review the complete Return of Title (R2T4) policy.
Readmission Policy
Readmission is only for students who have previously attended AMDA, did not receive a certificate/degree, and wish to return to continue their studies. Applying for Readmission does not guarantee that you will be readmitted. Circumstances and qualifications change over time, therefore, AMDA does not assume students are similarly qualified or prepared to return for study until the readmission process is completed. Four or more semesters of non-enrollment require an application for Conditional Readmission and may require an audition. To be considered for readmission: 1. All outstanding financial commitments to AMDA must be met. 2. The Application for Readmission must be received at least four weeks prior to the beginning of the desired semester for enrollment. 3. If you attended another institution since leaving AMDA, these courses are not transferable credit toward degree completion at AMDA, but an official transcript must be submitted to the Registrars office with your application. 4. If withdrawal and/or non-enrollment was medical or mental health related, documentation from a medical professional must be submitted with your application verifying medical clearance to return to AMDA. Unconditional Readmission Students who are in good standing with the Academy are eligible for unconditional readmission. This means that as a result of their readmission a student may return to normal academic studies at AMDA and are subject to current tuition and fees, program requirements, and college policies and procedures. Conditional Readmission Students who are not in good standing with AMDA since their departure may apply for Conditional Readmission (except students who were dismissed). Below are some of the categories that qualify as not in good standing: Students who did not complete the coursework for the last semester of enrollment. Students who left due to circumstances of medical or mental health and did not complete the coursework for that semester. Students who left due to Involuntary Withdrawal, Suspension or were on Academic Probation for the last semester they were enrolled. Students not enrolled for more than one consecutive semester with an approved Leave of Absence. A student whos cumulative GPA is below 2.0. If approved for Conditional Readmission to AMDA the following are standard conditions that will apply to every student: Some requirements/conditions may need to be completed prior to readmission. Prior coursework completed with a grade of C or higher will count toward degree completion. Required courses that received a grade below C must be repeated. Readmission is for one semester on a Probationary basis. All conditions set for readmission must be met/maintained for the entire semester. Any violation of academic or conduct policies may cause immediate termination of the Conditional Readmission agreement and result in suspension. All courses in which the student is enrolled must be completed satisfactorily with a grade of C or higher.
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Completion of all conditions/requirements specified above as well as additional conditions specified for each individual student will result in a return to regular student status for the next enrolled semester. Failure to meet any one of the requirements/conditions specified above or any additional conditions specified for each individual student will result in termination of the Conditional Readmission, immediate Dismissal, and the status of Not in Good Standing with AMDA. Any student who fails to complete a semester under Conditional Readmission will no longer be eligible for Readmission to AMDA. Outside Studies Students may not take classes or lessons outside AMDA in any performance-related topic while enrolled at AMDA without permission from the Education Department. Outside dance classes are allowed and may be taken without AMDAs permission.
Attendance Policy and Standards

Attendance Policy Development as a performing arts professional is critically dependent on your attendance and participation in classes. Absence from class or rehearsal is a lost experience, training that cannot be made up in any other context, therefore class attendance is of paramount importance. AMDA students are expected to attend all classes, every day, according to the posted schedule throughout the term. AMDA does not grant approved or excused absences, and attendance is recorded daily. Please note that absences may delay or nullify Title IV funds and other Financial Aid. Any anticipated absence requires the student to complete and submit a Notification of Absence Form. This does not excuse the absence but is a professional courtesy required in any job or performance work. The Notification of Absence Form must be provided to the Education Department in advance of the absence so that applicable faculty may also be notified. Forms are available for students at Reception. Students taking Individual Voice lessons must directly notify their Individual Voice teachers prior to their appointed lesson times if they must miss lessons. Students are responsible for making up missed class work that may require completing additional assignments outside of class. In many cases it is not possible to make up work due to absences. Failure or inability to make up work may result in a grade of F or I in a course and may require repeating a course, thereby delaying academic progress/degree completion. All absences are treated equivalently whether due to illness, outside event, family obligations, or any other reasons. These absences are noted but not excused. Students who wish to attend family events (such as weddings, graduations, etc) or observe religious holidays are strongly encouraged to keep their attendance in excellent order so that those absences will not cause them to be placed on Academic Probation. Special circumstances such as the death of a family member, hospitalization, or a potentially contagious disease will be taken into consideration, however absences will still remain on record and the student is responsible for missed work.
FullTime Enrollment Requirement

FullTime Enrollment (FTE) To maintain full-time enrollment status, AMDA students must be registered for a minimum of: 12 credit hours per semester, for the BFA program, and; 24 clock hours per week, for the conservatory program. For the BFA programs, we consider a students enrollment status full-time with a credit load of 12 - 15 credits per semester; 9-11 credits are considered at three-quarter time, 6-8 credits are considered half-time and 6 credits or less is considered less than half time (part-time). AMDA expects all students to maintain a full-time credit load guides them to a timely program completion and keeps them immersed in their program and associated activities. Our Conservatory program students are required to register for the entire semesters curriculum of 450.0 clock hours for each of their four semesters and are considered full-time. Students approved to enroll for fewer than a full-time course load in any semester during their course of study at AMDA must be aware they may not be making normal academic progress and must accept the consequences of a possible delayed graduation date. Only by special petition to the Director of Education and under the most unusual circumstances may students reduce their academic load below full-time. Students may petition to be part time through the last day to drop classes. After that date students may only withdraw from a class and the enrollment status will not change.
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Transfer Credit
NOTICE CONCERNING TRANSFERABILITY OF CREDITS AND CREDENTIALS EARNED AT OUR INSTITUTION The transferability of credits you earn at the American Musical and Dramatic Academy is at the complete discretion of an institution to which you may seek to transfer. Acceptance of the Bachelor of Fine Arts you earn in Acting, Dance Theatre, Musical Theatre, or Performing Arts or acceptance of the Certificate you earn in Dance, the Integrated Program, or the Studio Program is also at the complete discretion of the institution to which you may seek to transfer. If the credits or degree, diploma, or certificate that you earn at this institution are not accepted at the institution to which you seek to transfer, you may be required to repeat some or all of your coursework at that institution. For this reason you should make certain that your attendance at this institution will meet your educational goals. This may include contacting an institution to which you may seek to transfer after attending the American Musical and Dramatic Academy to determine if your credits or degree, diploma or certificate will transfer.
Students Rights and Privacy

AMDA values the educational experience of the student as central to our purpose and designs all our policies and programs to maintain or improve on that experience. Students who have any concerns, grievances or complaints should immediately bring them to the attention of a faculty or staff member. If informal means are not available to satisfactorily resolve a specific concern, AMDA maintains an internal procedure to receive and resolve formal student concerns. Students may register any personal or curricular concerns with the Education Department or the head of any specific department associated with the concern. AMDA Policy Concerning the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 To comply with the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (the Buckley Amendment), AMDA has established the following policy. Academic and financial aid records may be inspected for accuracy by a currently enrolled student and in the case of a financially dependent student (as determined by federal guidelines) by the responsible parent(s)/guardian(s) and the student. An appointment must be made at least one week in advance of the date an individual wishes to inspect files. Parental financial statements for the dependent student may not be inspected by the student unless parents provide written consent for the student to do so. Information in the students academic file is restricted to the student, parent/guardian of a dependent student, and any individual employed by AMDA who has a legitimate educational interest in it. Release of restricted information to all other individuals requires the students written consent. The school is permitted to release the following directory information without the prior consent or knowledge of the student: name, date of birth, enrollment status, program of study, dates of attendance, whether a certificate has been granted and the date (if any) that it was awarded, previous educational institutions attended, home and campus addresses, telephone numbers, parents names. Students have the right to restrict the disclosure or release of any or all directory information. Requests must be submitted in writing to the Education Department within five days of the beginning of a semester. AMDA considers its students to be mature, responsible adults. We encourage students to take part in shaping their education and in handling all situations that are presented to them. It is an integral part of a students training to develop a responsible attitude when dealing with both personal and professional situations. If a student is over the age of 18, AMDA will not notify parents of any illness, regardless of its nature, without the students approval and consent. However, if the student is deemed financially dependent upon your parents, we may notify them of withdrawals and dismissals, regardless of the students age. General Rights and Responsibilities of Students It is your responsibility to: Review and consider all information about AMDA before enrollment Accurately complete all requested information in a timely manner Understand and comply with all AMDA policies and deadlines Provide all documentation, corrections, and new information required
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Notify AMDA of any changes to your application Read and understand all the forms that you are asked to sign Repay any student loans which you have borrowed Fulfill your financial obligations to AMDA in a timely and complete fashion Attend entrance and exit interviews with the Education Department Notify AMDA of any change of address, name, or attendance status Understand AMDAs refund policy
You have the right to ask AMDA: About instructional programs, facilities, faculty The cost of attendance and the refund policy What financial assistance is available Procedures and deadlines for submitting applications and fees How it selects financial aid recipients How financial need is determined How much of your financial need has been met To explain each type of assistance in your financial aid package The name of its accrediting agency How and when funds will be received About student loan repayment provisions To reconsider an aid package, if a mistake has been made or financial circumstances change How satisfactory progress is determined and measured What it means if your Student Aid Report (SAR) is selected for verification and what documents you will be asked to submit in that process. Grievance Procedures A grievance procedure is provided for the timely and equitable disposition of student complaints alleging unlawful discrimination on the basis of race, creed, color, national or ethnic origin, age, sex (including sexual harassment), marital status, or disability in any educational or employment program, policy, or practice of The American Musical and Dramatic Academy for which a student is otherwise qualified. All students of AMDA may use this procedure. A copy of the full procedure is available in the Education Department. Any AMDA student who believes that he/she has been the victim of discrimination should initially attempt to resolve the matter informally with the Education Department, Director of Administrative Services, or a designated member of the administrative staff. Cases involving discrimination and especially sexual harassment are particularly sensitive and demand special attention to the issue of confidentiality. Dissemination of information relating to any matter of discrimination shall be limited to only those directly involved in the reporting and resolution process to ensure that the privacy of those involved is assured to the furthest extent possible. Every effort will be made to maintain confidentiality in discrimination matters so that members of the AMDA community may use the grievance procedures without fear of reprisal or retaliatory action.
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ABOUT US
AMDA ACCREDITATION & APPROVALS
The American Musical and Dramatic Academy (AMDA) is a private 501(c)(3) not-for-profit educational institution incorporated in the State of New York with a branch campus in Los Angeles, California. AMDA is approved to operate as a post-secondary educational institution in California by the California Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education; and in New York by the New York Stated Education Department. AMDA is an accredited institution of the National Association of Schools of Theatre (NAST).
Accreditation
AMDA is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Theatre (NAST). NAST, founded in 1965, is an organization of schools, conservatories, colleges and universities. It has approximately 162 accredited institutional members. It establishes national standards for undergraduate and graduate degrees and other credentials. Institutional Membership is gained only through the peer review process of accreditation. National Association of Schools of Theatre 11250 Roger Bacon Drive, Suite 21 Reston, VA 20190-5248 Phone: 703-437-0700 www.nast.arts-accredit.org
Approvals
In California Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education AMDA is a private institution that is approved to operate under the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education within the Department of Consumer Affairs of the State of California. Any questions a student may have regarding this catalog that have not been satisfactorily answered by the institution may be directed to the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education at 2535 Capitol Oaks Drive, Suite 400, Sacramento, California, 95833, www.bppe.ca.gov, toll-free telephone number (888) 370-7589 or by fax (916) 263-1897. A student or any member of the public may file a complaint about this institution with the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education by calling (888) 370-7589 toll-free or by completing a complaint form, which can be obtained on the bureau's Internet web site www.bppe.ca.gov. In New York Section 501(c) 3 The American Musical and Dramatic Academy is a non-profit educational institution incorporated in the States of New York and California. The student should be aware that some information in the catalog may change. It is recommended that students considering enrollment check with the school director to determine if there is any change from the information provided in the catalog. In addition, a catalog will contain information on the schools teaching personnel and courses/curricula offered. Please be advised that the State Education Department separately licenses all teaching personnel and independently approves all courses and curricula offered. Therefore, it is possible that courses/curricula listed in the schools catalog may not be approved at the time that a student enrolls in the school or the teaching personnel listed in the catalog may have changed. It is again recommended that the student check with the school director to determine if there are any changes in the courses/curricula offered or the teaching personnel listed in the catalog. Any questions about this catalog that have not been satisfactorily answered by the institution may be directed to the New York State Education Department, Office of Higher Education, Room 977 Education Building Annex, Albany, NY 12234, 518-474-2593, oheweb@mail.nysed.gov.
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Veterans Administration The American Musical and Dramatic Academy is approved to train veterans and other eligible persons. International Students The American Musical and Dramatic Academy is approved to accept International Students eligible under U.S. and State Education Codes for post-secondary admission and who meet application and admission eligibility criteria.
CAMPUS SERVICES
Faculty Since 1964, AMDAs mission has been to provide an ideal environment for performers to thrive. To realize that goal, the school opened its doors to the best and the brightest performing arts professionals in the world. The unrivaled access and industry insight our faculty members provide enables us to graduate business-savvy, working professionals each and every year. Faculty biographies and contact information are listed on AMDAs website at: www.amda.edu/faculty/all/ Education Department The Education Department supervises and coordinates academic programs and all aspects related to the training at AMDA. The staff is available to answer questions regarding schedules, teachers, classes, school procedures, rules and regulations, transcripts and/or enrollment verifications. The Education Department overseas all areas of student services including: graduation, reception, residential life and housing, security, student activities, AMDA merchandise, student employment via Federal Work-Study, international students visa status, and other co-curricular programs. Students should bring all questions, concerns and ideas about their academic experience to the Education Department Staff. Please Note: There are Residential Assistants (RAs) living in each AMDA Housing facility who are also available to assist students. International Student Services During the application process, the Admission Office assists international students with their international student documentation. Once enrolled, the Education Department assists international students with any advisement needed throughout their enrollment at AMDA. Campus Safety and Security The Security Department provides security and safety to all students, faculty, staff and visitors in and around AMDA Buildings. The Security Department is responsible for protecting property in and around AMDA Buildings, recording campus crime statistics in compliance with the Clery Act and maintaining lost and found at campus buildings. Financial Strength There is no pending petition in bankruptcy against AMDA, nor is AMDA operating as a debtor in possession. AMDA has not filed any such petition within the preceding five years, or has had a petition in bankruptcy filed against it within the preceding five years that resulted in reorganization under Chapter 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code. Financial Aid Office The Financial Aid Department administers federal and AMDA financial aid. The Financial Aid Department also houses information regarding scholarships and the Federal Work-Study Program. Contact the Financial Aid Department for information about any of the various aid programs and for application materials necessary to receive financial assistance at AMDA. Student Accounts / Bursar The Student Accounts / Bursars Office is available should questions arise regarding tuition, payment agreements or any concerns relating to financial matters. Students may also discuss effective ways to budget their money. Bursars Offices are located at each campus: NY 212-787-5300 or 800-367-7908, LA: 323-469-3300 or 866-374-5300. Admissions The Admission Department staff travel extensively, helping prospective students understand AMDA and the application process. Students may already be familiar with some of the Admissions staff. AMDAs Admission representatives visit high schools, attend college fairs, host several open house days throughout the year, coordinate auditions on and off campus, and organize new student orientations.
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Veterans Educational Benefits AMDA is an approved school to train veterans and others eligible for benefits. To find out if a student is eligible for VA benefits as a dependent or veteran chapter status, contact the VA directly at (888) 442-4551 or visit the website at: www.gibill.va.gov Production Department The Production Department oversees all technical aspects of performances. The Production Department also arranges for all audio-visual, costume, editing and film production needs. Facilities Department The Facilities Department staff members provide cleaning and repair services to keep AMDA beautiful, clean, and safe. Alumni Office AMDA has a strong tradition of supporting our alumni well beyond graduation. AMDA has an Alumni Office housed in the New York campus which supports both campuses. This office maintains an alumni database with approximately 5,000 names and contact information. Data is collected at each graduation and entered into the database, which is then updated as alumni news becomes known to us. Frequent alumni eBlasts help to keep alumni informed of AMDA activities, and, the newly established Alumni Spotlight magazine keeps the alumni, current students/faculty, and the community informed of the amazing accomplishments of AMDA graduates. Alumni play a critical role in all AMDA activities. Many alumni are active in the recruitment and selection of prospective students by referring talented performers to the admission staff, and participating in national and international audition and selection processes. Numerous AMDA alumni are part of the administration and teaching faculty, present workshops, and serve as Ambassadors in the U.S. and abroad. Activities and news involving AMDA alumni should be sent to the Alumni Office using the link on the Alumni Office webpage at: www.amda.edu/alumni Administration Directory Administrative staff, contact numbers, and emails are listed on AMDAs website at: www.amda.edu/about-amda/administration/ Board of Directors David Martin, President/ Artistic Director of AMDA Jan Martin, Executive Director of AMDA Nancy Sullivan, Chairman of the Board Elisa Lefkowitz Sharon Kelley Steven Dornbusch Molly Ziemienski CATALOG DISCLAIMER AMDA continuously updates information in the Course Catalog making every attempt to maintain current and accurate information. However, all content including course descriptions, faculty listings, program and degree requirements, tuition and fees, and policies/programs described herein are subject to revision, change, addition, and deletion without notice. Catalog Effective 06/01/2011-05/31/2012
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Table of Contents

VISION AND MISSION

AMDA NEW YORK CAMPUS

AMDA LOS ANGELES CAMPUS

AUDITIONS FOR ADMISSION

Evaluation of Prior Credit

Special Opportunity Projects

8th Semester Industry Event

8th Semester Projects

Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree Programs

Two Year Conservatory Programs

Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree Programs (4 Years)

Conservatory Programs (2 Years)

AMDA Conservatory Alumni/BFA Option

Program Specifications and Curricular Tables

Los Angeles Campus: Bachelor Of Fine Arts Degree (4 Year) Acting

Degree Program Title: Length of Program: Curriculum Program: Program Supervisors:

*NAST Guidelines (% is calculated based on 120 credits)

First Semester Total Credits

Acting Acting Acting Supportive Supportive Supportive

3.5 2.0 2.0 1.5 1.5 1.5

3.5 2.0 2.0 1.5 1.5 1.5

Second Semester Total Credits

Total First Year Program Credits

1.5 1.0 1.5

Third Semester Total Credits

8.0 Fourth Semester

Acting Acting Supportive Supportive Elective

3.5 2.0 1.0 1.0 1.5

3.5 2.0 1.0 1.0 1.5

Fourth Semester Total Credits

Total Second Year Program Credits

Los Angeles Campus: Bachelor Of Fine Arts Degree (4 Year) Acting

Bachelor of Fine Arts: ACTING, LA

3.5 2.0 1.0 2.0 1.0

3.5 2.0 1.0 2.0 1.0

*Fifth Semester Total Credits Sixth Semester

5.5 Sixth Semester

Credit/ Course 3.0

Critical Studies 3.0

Acting Acting Acting Acting Supportive Elective

2.0 2.0 3.5 1.0 2.0 1.5

2.0 2.0 3.5 1.0 2.0 1.5

Sixth Semester Total Credits

Total Third Year Program Credits

Seventh Semester Total Credits

8.0 Eighth Semester

Acting Supportive Supportive Supportive Elective

1.0 4.0 3.0 3.0 1.5

1.0 4.0 3.0 3.0 1.5

Eighth Semester Total Credits

Total Fourth Year Program Credits

Total Program Credits (Sample)

*NAST Guidelines (% is calculated based on 120 credits)

First Semester Total Credits

3.5 1.0 2.0 2.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0

3.5 1.0 2.0 2.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0

Second Semester Total Credits

Total First Year Program Credits

Third Semester Total Credits

11.5 Fourth Semester

Musical Theatre Musical Theatre Supportive Supportive

3.0 3.5 1.5 1.0