Bachelor of Fine Arts [B.F.A] [Theater Design and Technology] From Syracuse University

The 130-credit curriculum stresses building a firm foundation in the arts and the humanities as well as in the applied aspects and crafts of the theater. In the first year, in addition to their theater courses, theater design and technology majors participate in the foundation program in the School of Art and Design to enhance their drawing skills. They also are an integral part of Drama Department productions as members of backstage crews and as assistants to designers. This interaction between theory and practice is an essential part of developing an educated, creative theater person.

Advanced students design many Department of Drama main-stage productions and work with the professional staff and company of Syracuse Stage. Seniors in the program are eligible for internships with Syracuse Stage.

Students interested in design may specialize in one or more areas: set design, costume design, and lighting design. Courses in studio art, art and architectural history, and costume history contribute to developing conceptual design skills. The theater design and technology program also offers training in the use of computers as design tools. Facilities include two design studios, a LightBox and a CAD lab in addition to the technical shops shared with Syracuse Stage.

B.F.A. students interested in the technical aspects of theater may specialize in scene construction and painting, lighting, properties, or costumes, in consultation with a faculty advisor.

The B.F.A. program is appropriate for students interested in a career in the fields of entertainment design or technology.

Students wishing to explore a curriculum that combines theater design and technology with a broader liberal arts content may apply for the120-credit B.S. degree in drama, with a technical theater emphasis, provided they have been admitted to and have completed a portion of the B.F.A.