The Visual and Performing Arts Department at Cal State San Marcos provides
an exciting multidisciplinary approach to the arts which embraces the cultural richness of southern California. A degree in Visual and Performing Arts consists
of a sequence of courses that illuminates and emphasizes the benefits of our
cross-cultural heritage, presented in the framework of a dynamic experiential, theoretical and technological environment. The curriculum encourages interdisciplinary work, collaboration, and student self-direction.

As each student's educational goals and needs are different, The Visual and Performing Arts Department provides the opportunity for VPA majors to be directly involved in the design and pursuit of their education. A core of
courses provides a broad theoretical and experiential introduction to the arts. Students specialize in one area by following "Track" providing a series of appropriate courses. Courses in the track are selected consultation with a
VPA advisor.

Arts & Technology Track
Designed for students who wish to work with digital arts, multimedia, video,
and/or web design. This interdisciplinary track emphasizes various digital
media including music, video and the visual arts.

Music Track
Provides course offerings in composition, music technology, performance
and survey courses of diverse musical cultures. Music track students are
encouraged to explore their own creativity and musical voice.

Theatre Track
Provides courses in acting, theatre production, and research to performance. Survey courses include European, Latin American and American Theatre, with
a strong focus on African American and Latino Theatre.

Visual Arts Track
Designed for students who work creatively and innovatively in drawing,
painting, and sculpture, as well as with digital media. It allows the student
great flexibility in choosing among the program's offerings in both studio and critical/theoretical work.

Arts and Education Track
Designed to prepare students for entry into a K-6 credential program and
includes a reduced number of arts courses and in increase in general
education coursework. The Multiple Subject Achievement Test is waived
for graduates of this track.

Requirements for VPA Minors
The Visual and Performing Arts Minors offer the student the opportunity to
pursue studies in music, theater, visual arts, dance, art history, or any
combination of the above. An emphasis in Arts & Technology or Arts &
Education is also possible. With the help of an advisor, students create a
discipline-specific or multidisciplinary minor by choosing courses from two
areas: Critical/Theoretical Course or Studio Courses. All courses submitted
for the minor must be completed with a grade of C or better. Independent
Studies, research, or internships cannot be counted toward the minor.