PRODUCTION & DESIGN
The University of Houston School of Theatre & Dance strives to create a challenging and supportive environment within its Design & Technology BFA and MFA programs. An inquisitive theatre design and technology student will be given the opportunity and support to expand their knowledge base and explore their own unique voice through artistic collaboration.
BACHELOR OF FINE ARTS IN THEATRE WITH A CONCENTRATION IN PRODUCTION & DESIGN (BFA)
The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre with a concentration in Production & Design at the University of Houston provides comprehensive training and hands-on experience in scenic, lighting, sound, and costume technologies. Students may choose to focus in a specific production area or pursue a broader path as a theatre production generalist.
During the first two years, students explore design and leadership through small-scale studio productions. In their junior and senior years, they take on key roles in mainstage productions, working as shop leads, programmers, design assistants, and, in some cases, designers.
The program emphasizes practical, production-based training that prepares students for immediate employment in theatre and related industries or for advanced study in design and technology. Faculty and staff serve as dedicated mentors, supporting students as they develop the technical skills, artistry, and professionalism needed for success in the field.
MASTER OF FINE ARTS IN THEATRE WITH A CONCENTRATION IN DESIGN/TECHNOLOGY (MFA)
The Master of Fine Arts in Theatre with a concentration in Design/Technology at the University of Houston is an intensive three-year program that prepares students for careers in theatre, film, television, and live entertainment. The program combines technical training, hands-on production experience, and professional mentorship, with specialized study in Costume Design, Scenic Design, Lighting Design/Technology, Technical Direction, and Costume Technology.
Students gain practical experience through fully produced shows across three performance venues, collaborating closely with faculty, guest artists, and Houston’s vibrant performing arts community. This rigorous training provides students with the skills, professional connections, and real-world experience needed to launch successful careers across the entertainment industry.
The specialization in Costume Technology provides a strong foundation in costume construction techniques and management practices. Coursework is complemented by hands-on experience in draping, flat patterning, millinery, crafts, and tailoring.
Students take on advanced production roles across a minimum of six to eight fully produced mainstage productions, gaining extensive practical experience. They also serve as teaching assistants, mentoring undergraduate students in production and technology courses.
Upon completion of the program, graduates are well prepared for careers across the entertainment industry.
The specialization in Technical Direction prepares students to translate conceptual ideas, drawings, and designs into fully realized physical environments. Emphasizing collaboration, production, and technical management, students develop the skills needed to lead complex theatrical projects.
Students serve in leadership roles on six to eight productions across the School of Theatre & Dance’s three performance spaces, gaining hands-on experience with both traditional and emerging technologies. Coursework includes advanced computerized drafting, rigging, and scenic machinery, providing a comprehensive foundation in the field.
Additional opportunities include work with the Houston Shakespeare Festival, professional internships, and engagement with Houston’s vibrant arts community. Upon completion of the program, graduates are well prepared for careers in the entertainment technology industry.
The specialization in Lighting Design focuses on concept development, visualization, and execution for the stage. Students gain hands-on experience designing for theatre and dance productions while developing skills in lighting technology, color theory, and programming industry-standard equipment.
Through connections with Houston’s professional arts community, students build real-world experience and valuable industry networks. Upon completion of the program, graduates are well prepared for careers in lighting design across theatre and live performance.
The specialization in Costume Design develops artists with expertise in character-driven storytelling, rendering techniques, period research, and fabric manipulation. Students design for multiple productions across a range of venues, collaborating closely with directors, dramaturgs, and production teams.
Emphasizing both traditional craftsmanship and digital design tools, the program prepares graduates for careers in theatre, film, and related design fields.
The specialization in Scenic Design provides practical experience in creating environments for fully realized productions. Students develop skills in model building, drafting, digital rendering, and scenic painting.
Through collaborative projects and mentorship from faculty and industry professionals, students build a strong portfolio and establish professional connections. Upon completion of the program, graduates are well prepared for careers across the entertainment industry.
LEARN FROM THE BEST
- Rachel R. Bush, Associate Professor, Head of BFA Stage Management
- Barbara Niederer, Associate Professor, Costume Design & Technology, Head of MFA Design & Technology
- Lee Barker, Head of Props/Paint, BFA Production/Design
- Tatiana Vintu, Associate Professor, Scenic Design
- Paige Willson, Professor, Costume Design & Technology