Design - Theatre Technology

Overview

The Design - Theatre Technology program at University of South Dakota  is a theoretical and practical course of study. The Department of Theatre recognizes that the designer and technician must seek to attain a broad knowledge of the theatre and its companion arts, a high level of analytical and communicative skills, an understanding of the design elements as they apply to live, three-dimen­sional performances revealed by light, a comprehensive understanding of art and theatrical design history, and the ability to communicate graphically. With major professor and graduate committee approval, candidates must select an area of emphasis and complete additional requirements for the emphasis area: Costume Design, Light and Sound Design, Scenic Design, or Technical Direction. Because specialization admissions are limited, each student receives a high level of individual­ized instruction, opportunities to design in the Arena season of plays, and, in most instances, the opportunity to design a mainstage production as part of the design candidate’s culminating project.

In addition to meeting the general requirements of the Graduate School, candidates for degrees must complete all specific program requirements as listed in the departmental Graduate Student Handbook and as indicated by the Graduate Advisory Committee. All candidates must pass a final written and/or oral examination as determined by the Graduate Advisory Committee.  With major professor and graduate committee approval, candidates must elect an area of emphasis and must complete additional requirements for the emphasis area.

Write Your Next Scene at USD

With ties dating back to Ancient Greece, theatre has been a top art form for centuries. Today, it remains the innovative, crowd-pleasing type of entertainment as it was centuries ago. As a graduate-level theatre student at USD, you will hone and improve your skills at an in-depth level in the areas of directing or theatre design and technology with emphases in costume design, light and sound design, scenic design or technical direction. Gain a modern theatre education through intensive craft studies, close student-mentor relationships, supportive coursework and extensive production application in our newly renovated theatre facilities. The MFA at USD is ideal for those seeking careers in professional theatre or teaching in higher education.