Illinois State University United States

Theatre - Design/Production (B.A.)

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

The Theatre - Design/Production (B.A.) at Illinois State University is your gateway to shaping the visual and auditory landscape of live performance. This undergraduate degree is crafted for aspiring artists who are passionate about bringing stories to life through innovative set design, captivating lighting, evocative soundscapes, and impactful costume creation. You will delve into the foundational principles of theatrical production, exploring how technical expertise and creative vision converge to produce immersive and memorable stage experiences. This program is ideal for students eager to master the craft of theatrical design and technology.

This full-time, on-campus Bachelor of Arts degree is structured over four years, providing you with a comprehensive and hands-on education in theatrical production. You will engage in practical application through coursework that covers essential areas of design and technology, alongside opportunities to work on university productions. The curriculum emphasizes developing your skills in areas such as scenic design, lighting design, and sound design, preparing you for diverse roles within the theatre industry. Upon graduation, you will be equipped with a strong portfolio and the professional readiness to pursue careers in theatre companies, event production, and related creative fields.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

The Theatre - Design/Production (B.A.) program offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip students with the foundational knowledge and practical skills necessary for a career in theatrical design and production. Over four years, students engage with core theatre courses, explore various design disciplines, and complete general education requirements. The program emphasizes a blend of theoretical study and hands-on experience, culminating in advanced electives and university-wide courses to foster a well-rounded artistic and professional development.

1 First Year - Fall Semester (15.5 credit hours)

ENG 101 or COM 110 General Education
THE 102 Compulsory
THE 103
THE 130 or THE 160
General Education course
General Education course

2 First Year - Spring Semester (15.5 credit hours)

ENG 101 or COM 110 General Education
THE 102 Compulsory
THE 104
THE 110
THE 130 or THE 160
General Education course

3 Second Year - Fall Semester (14.5 credit hours)

THE 102 Compulsory
THE 237
THE 258
General Education course
General Education course
General Education course

4 Second Year - Spring Semester (14.5 credit hours)

THE 102 Compulsory
THE 251 or major elective
THE 261
THE 237
General Education course
B.S. SMT or B.A. foreign language

5 Third Year - Fall Semester (15 credit hours)

THE 330 or major elective
THE 362 or major elective
THE 376
General Education course
General Education course

6 Third Year - Spring Semester (15 credit hours)

THE 333 or major elective
THE 367 or major elective
THE 377
General Education course
AMALI course or University-wide elective

7 Fourth Year - Fall Semester (15 credit hours)

THE 240
THE 365 or major elective
University-wide elective
University-wide elective
University-wide elective

8 Fourth Year - Spring Semester (15 credit hours)

Senior college level major elective
Senior college level major elective
Senior college level major elective
University-wide elective
University-wide elective

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,132.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,132.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,132.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,132.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 96,528.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,000.00 - USD 1,600.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,000.00 - USD 4,560.00
Transport USD 600.00 - USD 1,200.00
Utilities & Bills USD 960.00 - USD 1,800.00
Estimated Total USD 4,560.00 - USD 7,560.00

Living cost estimates are based on Illinois Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

91%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Corporate & Commercial LawCriminal LawEmployment & Labor LawEvent Promotion & ManagementLegal Aid & Public Interest LawLive Events & ConcertsMuseums & Cultural HeritageTalent & Artist ManagementTax & Financial LawTheme Parks & Leisure

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Screen Actors Guild–American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA)

Why Study Theatre - Design/Production (B.A.) at Illinois State University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

Illinois State University typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at Illinois State University in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Theatre - Design/Production (B.A.) at Illinois State University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permission is needed for on-campus jobs.

What English language score do I need for this course?

International students must meet specific English test requirements. Acceptable scores include Duolingo: overall 105, TOEFL: overall 79, IELTS: overall 6.5, and PTE: overall 53.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Potential job titles include Production Designer, Lighting Technician, Scenographer, Costume Designer, and Sound Engineer.

What will I actually study in this course?

The Production Design and Technology sequence focuses on creating theatrical environments, including set designs, costumes, and lighting. You'll gain hands-on experience in shops, rehearsal halls, and classrooms.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

This program has three intake months: January, May, and August. You can apply for your preferred start date during these periods.
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