B.F.A in Design and Technical Theatre

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% or above in their previous academic qualifications.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall band score of  6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 79 or higher.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 100.

The University of Connecticut (UConn) offers a range of merit-based scholarships to support international students in their academic journey. These scholarships are designed to recognize exceptional academic achievements and leadership qualities.

Global Excellence Award: This scholarship is awarded to international students who have demonstrated outstanding academic performance and leadership both in and outside the classroom.

Global Distinction Award: Similar to the Global Excellence Award, this scholarship recognizes international students with exceptional academic records and leadership abilities.

Global Leader Award: This award honors international students who have shown exceptional academic achievement and leadership qualities. 

Graduates of the Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) in Design and Technical Theatre program at the University of Connecticut (UConn) are well-equipped to pursue a wide range of careers in the entertainment and performing arts industries. The program’s blend of technical expertise and creative design skills prepares students to work in theatres, film, television, and live events.

Theatre Designer (Scenic, Lighting, Costume, and Sound): Graduates can pursue careers as theatre designers in various areas such as scenic design, lighting design, costume design, and sound design. Theatre designers are responsible for creating the visual and auditory elements of a production. They work closely with directors and production teams to conceptualize and execute designs that enhance the storytelling experience. With hands-on training and access to state-of-the-art tools, B.F.A. graduates are equipped to create innovative and visually compelling designs for live performances.

Technical Director: Technical directors oversee the technical aspects of a theatre production, ensuring that all elements are executed on time and within budget. They supervise the construction and installation of sets, manage lighting and sound systems, and coordinate technical staff during rehearsals and performances. Technical directors play a crucial role in making sure that the production runs smoothly and that all technical elements are synchronized with the creative vision.

Stage Manager: Stage managers are responsible for coordinating all aspects of a theatrical production from rehearsals to performances. They work closely with the director, designers, and actors to ensure that the production is executed flawlessly. Stage managers organize schedules, manage props and costumes, and serve as the central point of communication for the entire production team. Their role is vital to the smooth operation of live theatre productions.

Production Manager: Production managers oversee the logistical and administrative aspects of theatre productions. They are responsible for budgeting, scheduling, coordinating resources, and ensuring that productions are delivered on time. This role requires strong organizational and leadership skills as production managers often work with large teams of technical staff, designers, and performers to achieve the final product.

Lighting and Sound Technician: Graduates of the B.F.A. program can work as lighting and sound technicians, responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining lighting and sound equipment during performances. These professionals ensure that all technical elements align with the artistic vision of the production. Their responsibilities include programming lights, adjusting sound levels, and troubleshooting technical issues to ensure a seamless performance.

Props Master: A props master is responsible for sourcing, creating, and managing all props used in a production. They collaborate with the director and designers to ensure that props fit the production’s aesthetic and thematic elements. Props masters also oversee the maintenance, repair, and placement of props during rehearsals and performances, ensuring they are in the right place at the right time.

Costume Designer: Costume designers create clothing and costumes that reflect the character, time period, and overall theme of a production. They work closely with directors and actors to design costumes that help bring the characters to life. Costume designers research fabrics, styles, and designs, and may also oversee costume construction and fitting for the cast.

Set Designer: Set designers are responsible for designing the physical environment of a performance. They work with directors to create stage layouts that support the narrative and convey the mood of the play or production. Set designers often use a variety of materials and techniques, from traditional set construction to digital technologies like 3D modeling, to bring their designs to life.

Theatrical Makeup Artist: Theatrical makeup artists apply makeup and prosthetics to actors to help transform them into their characters. This includes creating realistic or fantastical looks for actors, designing special effects makeup for dramatic scenes, and ensuring that makeup holds up under stage lighting. Artists in this field often work with other design professionals, such as costume and set designers, to create a cohesive visual experience.

Event Production Specialist: Event production specialists plan and execute live events, including concerts, conferences, festivals, and corporate events. These professionals manage logistics, design technical elements, and coordinate teams to ensure that all aspects of the event run smoothly. A background in design and technical theatre provides event producers with the knowledge to handle lighting, sound, and staging for large-scale events.

Film and TV Production Designer: Graduates can transition into film and television production, where they apply their design and technical skills to create sets, lighting, and soundscapes for screen productions. Production designers in film and TV work to visually bring a director’s vision to life by designing environments that fit the narrative and mood of the script. This role often involves collaboration with cinematographers and other technical experts in the industry.

Freelance Designer/Technician: Many B.F.A. graduates in Design and Technical Theatre pursue freelance careers as designers or technicians, working on various theatre, film, and event productions. Freelancers have the flexibility to take on multiple projects, working with different companies, directors, and producers across the industry. This career path requires strong networking and business skills, as well as the ability to handle multiple projects at once.

Theatre Consultant: Theatre consultants specialize in advising theatres, production companies, and other performance spaces on the design and implementation of technical systems. This includes acoustics, lighting, sound, and stage equipment. They work with architects, designers, and engineers to ensure that performance spaces are equipped with the latest technology and are optimized for live performances.

Creative Director for Entertainment Companies: Creative directors for entertainment companies oversee the overall vision and artistic direction of events and performances. They work with designers, directors, and other creatives to develop and execute productions that meet both artistic and commercial objectives. These professionals are highly involved in the creative process and often work with high-profile productions in both live theatre and entertainment media.

Theatre Arts Educator: Graduates with a passion for teaching may choose to become educators, instructing the next generation of theatre students. They can teach technical theatre courses, design principles, and stagecraft at the high school or college level. Some may also work in community arts education programs, introducing students to the fundamentals of theatre design and production.