Theatre - Lighting Design and Technology
The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre - Lighting Design and Technology offers students an immersive education in the technical and creative aspects of stage lighting, design, and production. The program blends artistic principles with hands-on technical training, enabling students to create visually compelling theatrical experiences while mastering lighting equipment, design software, and production workflows. Students develop creative expertise and technical proficiency, learning how to enhance storytelling, mood, and atmosphere in theatre through precise lighting design. Coursework emphasizes collaboration, innovation, and problem-solving within live performance contexts, preparing learners to work effectively in professional theatrical environments.
Over four years, students engage with courses in lighting theory, stagecraft, digital design, and theatre production management. The program provides opportunities for practical application through productions, lab work, and collaborative projects, allowing students to refine their design skills in real-world settings. Learners also explore emerging technologies, sustainability practices, and safety standards in theatrical lighting. By the final year, graduates demonstrate professional readiness and design competency, positioning them for careers in theatre, film, live events, or further study in performance and production design.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Theatre - Lighting Design and Technology
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Fine Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, United States
- Field of Study: Design
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 - Foundations in Lighting Design and Theatre
• Introduction to Theatre and Stagecraft
• Fundamentals of Lighting Design
• Technical Drawing and Visualization
• Academic Writing and Research Skills
Year 2 - Core Lighting Techniques and Technology
• Electrical Systems and Lighting Equipment
• Color Theory and Visual Composition
• Stage Production and Management
• Safety and Technical Standards
Year 3 - Advanced Design and Production
• Digital Lighting Design and Software
• Lighting for Performance and Media
• Collaborative Production Projects
• Elective Modules in Theatre or Design
Year 4 - Professional Practice and Capstone
• Senior Lighting Design Project
• Internship in Theatre or Live Events
• Advanced Stage Production Techniques
• Seminar in Lighting Design and Technology
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for professional roles in theatre, live events, film, television, and entertainment production. Career opportunities include positions in theatre lighting design, technical direction, event production, film and media lighting, and performance design consulting, where professionals manage lighting systems, design creative concepts, and support live productions. Graduates may also work in educational theatre programs, production houses, or pursue freelance opportunities, applying their technical expertise and artistic vision to diverse performance environments. The program equips students with creative problem-solving, technical skills, and collaborative abilities, enabling them to contribute to professional productions and innovative design projects.
Why Choose This Program
This program is ideal for students who wish to combine artistic creativity with technical mastery in lighting design for theatre and live performance. Learners develop technical proficiency, creative vision, collaboration skills and problem-solving abilities, equipping them to design compelling and effective lighting for performances. The four year curriculum balances theoretical foundations with hands-on production experience, including lab work, design projects, and internships. By integrating practical skills with artistic understanding, the program prepares graduates to excel in professional theatre, media production, live events, and related creative industries, or pursue advanced studies in lighting design and performance technology.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the graduate admissions office at:
Phone: 217-333-0035
Email: grad@illinois.edu
Address: The Graduate College, 507 East Green Street, Suite 101, MC-434, Champaign, IL 61820, United States
