About
The Foundations of Drama Certificate is composed of courses that rely on experiential-based learning, intended to develop your ability in a combination of acting and technical theatre.
- One- or two-year certificate
- Part-time program
- You can enter this program directly from high school
- You can begin this program off-campus
What you will learn
You can choose courses to create a main focus on acting, a main focus on technical theatre, or to balance the two sides of these theatre disciplines. You will have the confidence to put the skills learned into practice in real-life settings, be it with a theatre collective, or as a skillset to be used by elementary or secondary school teachers.
Foundations of Drama
After completing this certificate, if you are interested in continuing your theatre education at the University of Saskatchewan, you can use the courses taken as part of this certificate to ladder into a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) or Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) program in Drama.
You may receive only one of the Foundations of Drama certificate or the wîcêtowin Theatre certificate.
DRAM 118.3: Acting 1
The essentials of acting through the exploration of body, voice, idea, and imagination.
DRAM 113.3: Technical Theatre II Stage Properties
Introduction to the fundamentals of stage properties construction, materials and techniques. Emphasis will be placed on the practical and aesthetic aspects of producing stage properties for theatre productions. There is a requirement of a minimum of 25 hours of production work beyond the regular class and lab hours. Students should avoid taking any evening classes because of the demands of evening production set-up and rehearsals.
DRAM 213.3 Technical Theatre IV Stage Management
Introduction to the fundamentals of the craft and art of stage lighting, sound production, and theatre stage management. There is a requirement of a minimum of 50 hours of production work beyond the regular class and lab hours. Students should avoid taking any evening classes because of the demands of evening production set-up and rehearsals.
DRAM 219.3: Acting IV Scene Study and Textual Analysis for the Stage
A practical exploration of the table work process of script analysis, supplying the keys to creating a dramatic character. Students will learn how to analyze and interpret the text, while continuing to develop and hone their own creative imagination and impulses.
The Course and Program Catalogue has the complete and official listing of required classes and their descriptions for this program.
Choose a flexible program
In addition to local opportunities to celebrate French and Francophone culture, students are encouraged to participate in any one of many study and work abroad programs, including Explore, the federally-funded five-week French Immersion program in Québec and other provinces.
Gain versatile skills
All our French professors are involved in the Fransaskois community, and enhance their classes with trips to French movies, live theatre, musical events, variety shows, conferences and translation slams.
Facilities
The Department of Drama teaching facility is purpose-built; acting and movement classes have large bright studio spaces with sprung floors and there is a state-of-the-art costume lab, as well as access to Q-lab software. Sound and theatrical design facilities produce high grade theatrical productions and the Greystone Theatre itself is recognized nationally and internationally for its history of stellar and premiere productions including consistent sell-out performances.
Faculty
Many of our faculty have been showcased on both national and international stages.
Careers
Some graduates go on to use their practical experience within theatre companies or collectives, or as a skillset to be used by early/middle years or secondary school teachers:
- Actor
- Stage manager
- Production manager
- Stage designer
- Costume designer
- Lighting designer
Tuition estimates
| Canadian students | International students | |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $746 per 3 credit unit class | $3,611 per 3 credit unit class |
| Student fees | $1,121 per year | $1,121 per year |
Tuition will vary depending on the type and number of classes you take in a year. This estimate reflects a typical amount you could expect to pay per class (2024-2025 Canadian dollar rates).
Student fees are used to fund specific student benefits, including health, vision and dental coverage, a bus pass, recreational programs and fitness centre access. This estimate reflects the price you would pay if you are a full-time student.
The cost of books and supplies varies widely depending on the courses you choose. It is recommended that you budget between $1,500-$2,500 for this program.
Program options
The Certificate in Foundations of Drama is offered by the University of Saskatchewan's College of Arts and Science. You may earn the certificates on their own, concurrently with a degree, or after having already received a degree from here or another institution.
If you are already enrolled at USask, consult your academic advisor regarding enrolling in this program.
The Course and Program Catalogue has the complete and official listing of required classes and their descriptions for this program.
Admission requirements and deadlines
Deadlines
Ready to apply?
If you are a current USask student, consult your academic advisor about enrolling in this program.
To apply to this program as a new student, create an admissions account and apply for admission to any undergraduate program in the College of Arts and Science. When you are ready to submit your application, you will be assessed a non-refundable application fee of $90 CAD. (Effective December 2, the application fee is increasing to $120 CAD.) After you are admitted, declare your plans to the college.
If you are interested in more information about this certificate, please contact student-advice@artsandscience.usask.ca