The professional BFA training program in theatre design/technology places major emphasis on studio/classroom training under the guidance of established working professionals. Students learn every aspect of theatre design and technology.

Professional training requires a logical and sequential conservatory program. The freshman year is an exploratory common program that stresses fundamental coursework and assigned tasks on actual productions. After the freshman year, the following concentrations are available:

  1. scenic design
  2. costume design
  3. lighting design
  4. costume technology
  5. stage management
  6. technical direction/production management
  7. sound design

Advanced study and practice in one or more of these areas occupies the second, third, and fourth years. Concurrent with these studies, a balance of liberal arts courses is also available to equip the candidate to function as a mature theatre professional.

Professional Training Facilities

The unparalleled technical and design resources of the Performing Arts Center—and its busy schedule of dance, musical, and dramatic productions—provide students with professional experiences few commercial theatres can match. Classes are conducted in modern design studios, where students have their own workspace and personal drawing tables. Private and semiprivate design studios are often provided for juniors, seniors, and graduate students. Opportunities for apprenticeships in professional studios and shops in New York City and throughout the country provide valuable career-related experience and contacts.

About Our Alumni

More than 86 percent of theatre design/technology graduates are working in their chosen profession. Many alumni are now members of USA local 829, IATSE, and AEA and have received Tony, Emmy, Obie, and Drama Desk Awards, among other honors. Their extensive design credits include Broadway, Off Broadway, dance, film, television, industrials, and Las Vegas.