At The School of Arts and Enterprise, one of the questions we hear most from incoming high schoolers is some version of: How am I supposed to know what I want to do for the next four years? And honestly? That is a completely fair question. Picking a Major sounds like a big, serious, life-defining decision. But here’s the thing – it doesn’t have to feel that way. We’ve designed the whole process so that by the time you actually have to choose, you’re ready. Here’s how it works.

Our “Majors” are a unique component of The SAE experience – and a big part of student identity here on campus. Majors ensure that you have the skills and training you need to succeed. Ready to learn more? Here’s an overview in three easy steps!

 “We also have a ton of support from our Art Teachers who are the experts in each discipline. I also have office hours where you can discuss your future in the arts directly with me!” -Rob Shields, Artistic Director

First, You Get Time to Figure It Out

Before anyone asks you to commit to anything, The SAE gives you middle school to just… explore. When you arrive in 6th grade, you’ll take Integrated Arts, which is basically a tour of everything we offer – dance, music, visual arts, theatre, you name it. After that, you move through our Middle School Arts Pathways, trying out different disciplines and seeing what sparks something in you.

Some students show up already knowing they’re a dancer or a musician and they want to go deep on that right away – totally fine. Others use middle school to take a little of everything until something clicks – also totally fine. There’s no wrong way to explore, and no one’s keeping score. That’s kind of the whole point.

Then, You Choose Your Major

When you hit 9th grade, it’s time to pick a 4-year course of study. Here’s what’s on the table:

  • Department of Creative Arts Graphic Design Major | Photography Major | Dual Major: AMOCA Ceramic Workshop
  • Department of Dance Dance Major | Dual Major: Dance Education
  • Department of Music Instrumental Music Major | Vocal Music Major | Dual Major: Recording Technology
  • Department of Theatre Arts Theatre Arts Major | Dual Major: Live Event Arts or Musical Theatre
  • Department of Visual Arts Visual Arts Major | Dual Major: AMOCA Ceramic Workshop

That’s 7 Majors and 5 Dual Majors – which means if you love more than one thing (and a lot of our students do), there’s room for that too.

“Dual Majors are one of my favorite programs at The SAE! However the name can lead to some confusion. Think of Dual Majors as specialized focus ares within each major. They usually have space limits as these programs are very popular and they happen in an extended day usually on Tuesdays and Fridays. There are requirements, including a minimum gpa, but if you have the passion we will support you as best we can to get into these incredible programs.” -Rob Shields, Artistic Director

What Actually Happens After You Choose

Once you’ve picked your Major, the next four years are about going deep. Your faculty aren’t just teachers – they’re working professionals with real industry experience and real connections. You’ll go through rigorous portfolio reviews that push you to grow, take part in master classes, and get mentorship opportunities that connect you to the world you’re heading into.

We also protect your after-school time. Homework gets done during the school day so that your evenings are actually free for tutoring, rehearsals, and dual major coursework – not racing to finish a worksheet before bed.

And Then What?

This is the part we’re really proud of. SAE graduates leave with professional portfolios, mentorship experience, and an academic foundation that opens a lot of doors. Some head to top arts conservatory programs. Some go straight to college with credits already earned. Some walk into 21st century creative careers with skills and connections most graduates their age don’t have yet.

Whatever path makes sense for you, we’ll help you build toward it. That’s the whole reason the Major system exists – not to lock you in, but to make sure you graduate with something real.

Are you ready to choose your Major? Join The School of Arts and Enterprise and get ready for a top-notch arts education in a creative and caring school environment. Contact us and enroll today.

About The SAE

The School of Arts and Enterprise (The SAE) is an audition-free and tuition-free arts charter school serving grades 6-12. Our campuses are located in the Pomona, CA Arts Colony, surrounded by a thriving professional arts community. We offer nationally-recognized, award-winning arts education and creative entrepreneurship for young artists through project-based learning and flexible block scheduling. Students are supported by a close-knit community that values creative expression and celebrates differences. Join The SAE today! Enrolling now.

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