Colorado State University United States

Theatre / Lighting Design and Technology Concentration (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 / Lighting Design and Technology Concentration (B.A.) at Colorado State University equips you to explore the intricate world of theatrical production, focusing on the crucial elements of lighting design and technology. You will delve into the theory and practice of bringing stage performances to life, understanding how lighting shapes mood, narrative, and visual impact. This undergraduate program is ideal for aspiring designers and technicians who are passionate about the collaborative art of theatre and eager to develop a comprehensive skill set in this dynamic field.

You will study on campus full-time over four years, engaging with a curriculum that balances foundational theatre studies with specialized lighting design and technology coursework. The program emphasizes hands-on experience through practicum assignments, offering opportunities to work on actual productions in various technical roles and design capacities. You will develop your abilities in areas like stagecraft, computer-assisted drafting, and projection design, culminating in a professional preparation portfolio and the practical skills needed for diverse careers in theatre and related entertainment industries.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Bachelor of Arts in Theatre with a concentration in Lighting Design and Technology provides a comprehensive four-year curriculum. Students will explore foundational theatre concepts, stagecraft, and design principles, progressing through specialized courses in lighting, projection, and set design. The program emphasizes practical experience through various practicum assignments, culminating in advanced design projects, internships, and professional preparation. Additionally, students will fulfill general education requirements across humanities, sciences, and social sciences.

1 Freshman Year:

College Composition
Text Analysis
Drawing for Theatre
Stagecraft
Theatre Practicum I - Crew Assignment
First Year Seminar - Telling Your Story
Introduction to the Visual Arts
Understanding Dance
Music Appreciation
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Quantitative Reasoning

2 Sophomore Year:

World Theatre History I
World Theatre History II
Computer Assisted Drafting for Theatre
Lighting Design I
Projection Design I
Theatre Practicum II - Shop Assignment
Theatre Practicum III: Production Crew
Theatre Practicum III: Asst. Designer in Conceptual Design Process
Biological and Physical Sciences
Historical Perspectives
Social and Behavioral Science

3 Junior Year:

Projection Design II
Theatre Practicum III: Assistant Designer Applied
Design Portfolio and Professional Preparation
Stage Management I
Set Design I
Theatre Design and Production Seminar (Lecture Only, Lecture and Lab, or Lab Only)
Theatre Practicum IV: Lead Production/Technical
Theatre Practicum IV: Lead Designer - Conceptual
Advanced Writing
Upper-Division Electives

4 Senior Year:

Lighting Design II
Theatre Practicum IV: Lead Designer - Applied
Global Dramaturgies
Global Theatre
Study Abroad - South Africa: Performing Arts and Culture
Theatre in London: Travel Abroad
Theatre Internship
Stage Management II
Set Design II
Musical Theatre History and Repertory I
Theatre Design and Production Advanced Topics (Lecture, Lecture and Lab, or Lab)

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,043.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,043.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,043.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,043.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 136,172.00

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

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 3,600.00 - USD 5,400.00
Transport USD 840.00 - USD 1,440.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,200.00 - USD 2,040.00
Estimated Total USD 5,640.00 - USD 8,880.00

Living cost estimates are based on Fort collins campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

84%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Amusement & Recreation ServicesAnimation & Visual EffectsEvent Promotion & ManagementFilm & Television ProductionGaming & Interactive MediaLive Events & ConcertsMusic & Performing ArtsSports & AthleticsStreaming & Digital ContentTalent & Artist Management

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Denver Art Museum

Why Study Theatre / Lighting Design and Technology Concentration (B.A.) at Colorado State University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

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

Life at Colorado 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 / Lighting Design and Technology Concentration (B.A.) at Colorado 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. After the first year, they may seek off-campus employment with university approval.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English requirements, students can submit scores from various tests. For example, a Duolingo overall score of 110 or a TOEFL overall score of 72 is required.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Potential job titles include Lighting Designer, Stage Manager, Technical Director, Production Assistant, and Theatre Consultant.

What will I actually study in this course?

The program at CSU covers areas such as theatrical design and technical theatre, as well as theatre history and dramaturgy. Students benefit from the expertise of faculty and guest artists with extensive industry experience.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

Students can start the Theatre / Lighting Design and Technology program in January or August. This flexibility allows for diverse enrollment options throughout the year.
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