Department Chair, Performing Arts: Daniel Sheehan
Department Secretary: Pamela Coles
Room: W-225
Phone: (201) 879-7021
Our Mission
The Theatre Arts program at Bergen Community College offers a wide range of performance, technical, and general education courses from beginning to advanced level. The curriculum emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach encouraging collaboration among music, theatre arts, dance, fine arts, broadcasting and cinema studies. The professors, directors, choreographers, designers, distinguished guest artists and technical staff at Bergen are experienced working professionals in their fields. The Theatre Arts program at Bergen offers a rich and varied environment for artistic challenge and growth. Whether you choose to continue your studies after Bergen or go directly into the entertainment field, your experience at Bergen will give you the valuable foundation you need for a life in the theatre. Bergen’s Theatre Arts program offers two unique degrees: the A.F.A.THEATRE (ACTING or GENERAL) degree and the A.A.S.THEATRE.TECH degree that are suited to students with specific educational goals. Both degrees will prepare the student for transfer to a four-year degree or to begin working professionally.
Career Paths
The Associate of Fine Arts degree (A.F.A.) and the Associate of Applied Science degree (A.A.S.) is designed to provide students with the coursework needed to transfer to a four-year institution and pursue a bachelor’s degree in acting, general theatre, and technical theatre. The curriculum provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to pursue a pathway to careers in theatre. Students can take coursework and concentrated options in acting, general theatre and technical theatre. Students are strongly encouraged to consult with Bergen Community College theatre faculty and Career Services as they begin to explore career options.
Transfer Opportunities
Students pursuing the Associates of Arts degree (A.F.A.) and the Associate of Applied Science degree (A.A.S.) can transfer into majors, such as fine and performing arts, theatre arts, acting, and technical theatre production. Many four-year colleges require coursework in fine and performing arts. Students are encouraged to work closely with Bergen Community College faculty and Advising Transfer Services. Students planning to transfer to a four-year institution in NJ can explore the “Transfer Programs” feature on NJ Transfer https://njtransfer.org.