Theatre - Sound Design and Technology
The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre – Sound Design and Technology is a four year program designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of sound engineering, audio production, and live theatre technology. The curriculum emphasizes sound design, audio engineering, technical production, and creative problem solving, enabling students to develop the skills necessary for designing and managing audio in theatrical, film, and live performance settings. Through lectures, hands-on workshops, studio work, and collaborative projects, students gain practical experience in recording, mixing, amplification, and sound reinforcement for a wide range of productions.
Students gain extensive experience in acoustic design, audio signal processing, live sound reinforcement, digital audio workstations, and production coordination, strengthening technical expertise, creative thinking, collaboration, and professional planning abilities. The program combines core courses in sound technology, theatre production, and performance studies with electives that allow students to specialize in areas such as digital sound design, audio post-production, or immersive theatre sound. By integrating theoretical knowledge with applied practice, graduates acquire the skills necessary to pursue careers in theatre, film, television, music production, or continue into graduate studies in audio engineering, sound design, or media production.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Theatre - Sound 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: Drama
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 - Foundations in Sound Design and Theatre Technology
- Introduction to Theatre Sound Design and Technology
- Fundamentals of Audio Production and Recording
- Academic Writing and Research Skills
- Core Courses in Theatre Production, Acoustics, and Performance Studies
Year 2 - Core Studies in Audio and Technical Production
- Live Sound Reinforcement and Mixing
- Digital Audio Workstations and Signal Processing
- Studio and Field-Based Audio Projects
- Elective Courses in Sound Editing, Music Technology, or Theatre Management
Year 3 - Advanced Topics & Applied Audio Production
- Advanced Sound Design for Theatre and Film
- Collaborative Production Projects and Practicums
- Internship / Field-Based Production Experience
- Elective Courses in Immersive Sound, Post-Production, or Technical Directing
Year 4 - Capstone & Professional Preparation
- Senior Sound Design Project or Thesis
- Seminar in Professional Practice, Safety, and Industry Standards
- Internship / Placement in Theatre, Film, or Live Performance Companies
- Career Preparation and Portfolio Development
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in live theatre, film, television, music production, and entertainment technology. They often work as sound designers, audio engineers, theatre technicians, production coordinators, and technical directors, applying knowledge of audio systems, sound reinforcement, and production management to creative projects. Many graduates continue their studies in sound engineering, audio design, or media production, leveraging their expertise to innovate in live performance, recording studios, or immersive theatre experiences. The combination of technical skills, creative experience, and professional preparation ensures graduates are fully equipped to succeed in multidisciplinary roles within the entertainment and media industries.
Why Choose This Program
This program is ideal for students seeking a comprehensive education in sound design, audio technology, and theatre production that combines theoretical study with hands-on practice. It emphasizes technical proficiency, creative problem solving, collaborative production, and career readiness, preparing students for careers in theatre, film, television, and live sound engineering. Students engage in studio work, field projects, internships, and collaborative productions, gaining applied skills alongside academic study. The four year curriculum allows in depth exploration of sound design, audio production, and professional practice, ensuring graduates are fully prepared to contribute meaningfully to creative industries and live performance environments.
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
