

The Theatre, Design and Tech Bachelor of Arts program at the University of North Carolina provides a comprehensive foundation in stage design, technical production, and theatrical creativity. The curriculum integrates principles of scenic design, lighting, costume construction, sound, and production technology, helping students build both artistic vision and technical proficiency. Through a balanced combination of theory and applied practice, learners gain the skills needed to develop professional-level stage environments and support complex performance productions.
Students engage in studio courses, technical labs, and hands-on production work that connect conceptual design with real-world stage applications. Guided by experienced faculty, learners develop competencies in design interpretation, production management, problem-solving, and professional portfolio development. This approach equips students with the creative, analytical, and technical abilities required to excel in theatre, live performance, film, and broader creative industries.
Year 1 – Foundations in Theatre Design
• Introduction to Stage Design
• Fundamentals of Technical Theatre
• Drawing, Rendering, and Visualization
• Theatre History and Production Basics
Year 2 – Core Design and Technology Studies
• Lighting Design and Technology
• Costume Construction and Design Principles
• Scenic Design and Model Building
• Production Lab and Technical Workshops
Year 3 – Advanced Applications
• Sound Design and Digital Production Tools
• Advanced Scenic and Lighting Techniques
• Theatre Production Management
• Applied Design Studio and Collaborative Projects
Year 4 – Integration and Capstone
• Advanced Design Projects
• Professional Portfolio Development
• Capstone Production in Design/Tech
• Industry Preparation and Career Strategies
Graduates of this program are prepared for a wide range of roles in design and technical theatre. Many pursue careers as scenic designers, lighting designers, costume designers, sound designers, technical directors, stage technicians, and production managers across theatre companies, film studios, television, live events, and performing arts organizations. Others work independently as creative designers or join cultural institutions and production teams supporting large-scale artistic projects.With a strong emphasis on applied design, technical expertise, and professional readiness, the program equips students to thrive in creative and production-focused environments within the performing arts and entertainment industries.
This program is ideal for students who want to combine artistic creativity with technical production skills. Its curriculum emphasizes modern design tools, hands-on technical training, collaborative production work, and practical studio experiences. Learners benefit from close faculty mentorship, real production assignments, and opportunities to develop an industry-ready professional portfolio.By engaging in design labs, workshops, and capstone projects, students strengthen their ability to solve creative challenges, deliver technical solutions, and contribute meaningfully to professional theatre and production environments. The program prepares graduates for impactful careers in theatre, film, television, live events, and the broader creative arts sector.
Phone: +1 (919) 966-3621
Email: unchelp@admissions.unc.edu
Address: Jackson Hall, 174 Country Club Road, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA