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SCHOOL OF THEATRE & DANCE

PRODUCTION & DESIGN

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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 PRODUCTION & DESIGN (BFA)

The BFA Theatre Production Program at the University of Houston provides coursework, specialized training, and hands-on experience in scenic, lighting, sound, and costume technology. Students have the flexibility to concentrate in a specific production area or pursue a broader education as a theatre production generalist. 

Undergraduates in their freshman and sophomore years have ample opportunity to explore leadership & design in small-scale studio productions. Students then take on key roles in large-scale mainstage productions, working as shop leads, programmers, design assistants, and occasionally as designers in their junior & senior years. The program emphasizes practical training, preparing students for immediate employment in theatre and related industries or for graduate study in design and technology fields. The faculty and staff are dedicated mentors, providing guidance and support to help students develop the skills, artistry, and professionalism needed for success in the industry. 

MASTERS OF FINE ARTS IN DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY (MFA)

The University of Houston’s M.F.A. in Design & Technology is an intensive three-year program that prepares students for careers in theatre, film, television, and live entertainment. Combining technical training, hands-on production experience, and professional mentorship, the program offers specialization in Costume Technology, Technical Direction, Lighting Design, Costume Design, and Scenic Design. Students gain practical experience through fully produced shows in three performance venues, while collaborating closely with faculty, guest artists, and Houston’s renowned performing arts community. The M.F.A. in Design & Technology at UH provides unparalleled training, professional networking, and real-world experience, launching graduates into thriving careers across the entertainment industry. 

Specialization in Costume Technology provides a solid foundation of costume construction techniques, and management skills. Classroom instruction is complimented by hands-on experience in a variety of areas including draping, flat patterning, millinery, crafts, and tailoring. All students will undertake advanced production positions for a minimum of 6-8 fully produced mainstage productions. Students also serve as teaching assistants, guiding undergraduates in production and technology courses. At the completion of the program, graduates are prepared for careers throughout the entertainment industry. 

Creating a physical world from conceptual ideas, drawings, and discussions, the Technical Direction Program at the University of Houston prepares students to work in collaborative design, production, and technical management. Technical Direction students should expect to lead between six and eight productions within the School of Theatre and Dance’s three performance spaces. With that, the UH experience offers students the ability to learn a unique mix of skills, executing a diverse range of ventures using traditional and emerging technologies. As students of Technical Direction prepare to assume work as professionals in the entertainment technology business, the University of Houston offers a variety of courses relating to their field, including courses in advanced computerized drafting, rigging, and scenic machinery. Students will also have opportunities to expand their education at the affiliated Houston Shakespeare Festival, through professional internships, and the vast potential opportunities available to them within the local Houston arts scene. 

M.F.A. students in Lighting Design train in concept development, visualization techniques, and execution for the stage. With opportunities to design for theatre and dance productions, students gain hands-on experience in lighting technology, color theory, and programming industry-standard equipment. The program’s strong connection to Houston’s professional scene provides real-world experience and networking opportunities. 

The Costume Design track develops artists with expertise in character-driven storytelling, rendering techniques, period research, and fabric manipulation. Students design for multiple productions in various venues, working closely with directors, dramaturgs, and technical teams. Emphasizing both traditional craftsmanship and digital design tools, this program prepares graduates for careers in theatre, film, and fashion. 

Students specializing in Scenic Design gain practical experience creating environments for fully realized productions. The program emphasizes model building, drafting, digital rendering, and scenic painting. Through collaborative projects and mentorship from industry professionals, students develop a strong portfolio and professional connections for careers throughout the entertainment industry. 

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