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Theatre Design and TechnologyMajor

We provide hands-on training through work on the Theatre and Dance mainstage. Working side by side with faculty, you'll develop a variety of theatre environments using the most current technology and tools available.

Overview

What is Theatre Design and Technology at WVU like?

Description

The BFA in Theatre Design and Technology introduces all theoretical and practical aspects of producing live entertainment.

This program is designed for students wanting to pursue a professional theatre career, graduate study in theatre or a related profession where design and technology skills are highly desirable.

Training involves active participation in the production program and the opportunity to serve as leaders in designing or constructing fully produced mainstage productions. You'll experience all facets of design and technology and must demonstrate a talent/ability in more than one area of the art form. Portfolio reviews allow you to craft your resume and documentation for job searches.

All interested students must apply to the University and audition for the School of Theatre and Dance for acceptance.

At a Glance

Next Steps

Interested in this major? Here are some suggested next steps:

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Fast Facts

What makes Theatre Design and Technology at WVU unique?

Living-Learning Communities (LLCs)

Live, study and pursue outside-the-classroom learning in a residence hall community that shares your interests:

Transfer Articulation Agreements

To simplify the transfer process, we have formal agreements with certain institutions. These agreements outline the courses you should take to prepare for transferring to WVU. Review the full list of transfer articulation agreements to see if your institution is listed.

Professional Organizations

Network with professionals in your field as a student member of:

Careers

How does this degree prepare students for a career?

Our program is designed for students who intend to pursue a professional theatre career, further graduate study in theatre or a related profession where design and technology skills are highly desirable.

Themed environments have expanded beyond the theatre and so have the opportunities for our graduates. In addition to working on Broadway and in the film and television industry, students have designed and built for theme parks and concerts.

Possible Careers

Wondering what you can do with a degree from WVU's Theatre Design and Technology major? Check out these ideas from WVU Career Services and the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). A median salary is the midpoint of what people typically earn—half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.

This page includes information from O*NET OnLine by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license.

Employers

Graduates from this major have gone to work at:

Courses

What are the courses like in Theatre Design and Technology at WVU?

Plan of Study

Check out a program overview, learning goals, course descriptions and suggested plan of study for WVU's Theatre Design and Technology major.

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Popular Courses

THET 213:
Stage Management Practicum

PR or CONC: THET 112 and THET 113. Practical production experience as stage manager. (May be repeated for a maximum of 4 hrs.)

THET 312:
Theatrical Rigging

An examination of the tools, equipment, hardware, and safety practices commonly used in theatrical rigging.

THET 322:
Scene Design

Introduction to the fundamentals of scenic design including conceptualization, development, drafting, rendering, model building and techniques of design presentation.

THET 324:
Costume Design 1

Study of basic design elements as applied to costume design. Script analysis leading to conceptualization and communication through visual language. Experience in practical organization skills, paperwork and budgeting.

THET 325:
Lighting Design

Experience in the design of stage lighting including conceptualization, drafting and rendering techniques related to the development and presentation of lighting design.

THET 423:
Costume Crafts

Identification and application of the materials and techniques used in the fabrication of costume crafts. Emphasis on research and practical experience through hands on project work.

THET 428:
Scene Painting

An introduction to the basic tools, materials, and techniques of scene painting for the stage.

THET 435:
Theatre Health and Safety

Course investigates common health and safety issues encountered in Theatrical Production. Examines the laws and governing agencies in the theatrical industry. Certifies students in CPR and First Aid.

Capstone Projects

Before graduating, all undergraduates in this major complete an academic project (or "capstone") to demonstrate their research, communication and critical thinking skills. Projects in WVU's Theatre Design and Technology major have included:

Cost and Aid

How much does Theatre Design and Technology at WVU cost? And how can you save?

Tuition and Fees

Estimated rates are available on our tuition website. Anyone who is not a current West Virginia resident, including international students, will be charged non-resident rates.

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Scholarships

Estimate your eligibility for merit scholarships at WVU Morgantown.

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Net Price Calculator

Estimate your cost of attendance and eligibility for financial aid and scholarships at any WVU System campus.

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Ways to Save

Here are a few ways for you to save on the cost of attending WVU in addition to university scholarships.

Ohio Tuition Reciprocity

As the result of a special agreement, students from Ohio who are fully admitted to Theatre Design and Technology can enroll at WVU and pay in-state tuition rates. Students must be admitted to both the University and this major.

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Transfer Articulation Agreements

To simplify the transfer process, we have formal agreements with certain institutions. These agreements outline the courses you should take to prepare for transferring to WVU.

Review the full list of transfer articulation agreements to see if your institution is listed.

Learn How to Transfer Course Credits

Requirements

What are the requirements to apply for Theatre Design and Technology at WVU?

To be admitted to WVU's Theatre Design and Technology major, you must meet WVU's first-time freshman admission requirements for the 2024-25 academic year. Interested in transferring? Review the transfer admission requirements.

Related Majors and Minors

What other options does WVU have?

What minors could I consider?

Related Pathways

What majors share similar career interests with this major at WVU?

Next Steps

I like this major. What are the next steps?

Apply Now

Your first step to becoming a Mountaineer is applying for admission. Our online application makes the process as convenient as possible.

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Request Information

Want to know more about Theatre Design and Technology at WVU? Fill out the Request Information form to receive more information about the program and life at WVU.

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Visit WVU

It's the next-best thing to being here – you can virtually tour residence halls and the WVU Morgantown Campus.

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