About This Program
Do you have a love for the behind the scenes aspects of theatre? Demand is high for performing arts technical support in the Upper Midwest and beyond, including theatre, film, and live events. Whether you are starting your college career and looking to complement your degree program in another field, or already have your degree and want to learn or enhance your skills to enter the industry, our Design and Production Certificate offers you basic training that will be an advantage for future employment.
We offer a range of courses in theatrical design and theatre technology. Class sizes are small and mostly hands-on. The curriculum is designed to be able to be completed in one year of full time course work, or spread out alongside the course of a full degree program.
Program Highlights
- Learn or enhance skills in areas including - Stage carpentry, welding, properties construction, upholstery, costume construction, makeup, jewelry construction, rigging, lighting and sound control software, computer programming, moving light technology and media projection
- Put your skills to work not only in the classroom but as part of making the UMD Theatre season come to life on the Marshall Performing Arts Center Mainstage and Dudley Experimental Theatre!
Potential Careers
- Theatrical designer
- Scenic
- Costume/Hair/Makeup
- Lighting
- Sound
- Stage manager
- Technical director
- Production manager
- Project manager
- Master electrician
- Theatre technician
- Wardrobe head
Research & Experiential Learning
- The Certificate Program is focused on hands on learning and skill development
- As an all undergraduate program, all courses are taught by our talented and supportive faculty
- Make connections to local and regional professional theatre venues
Get Involved
- Stage 2 Theatre Company: A student organization affiliated with the Department of Theatre that produces its own student-run theatrical season every academic year. It is a great way for you to get involved whether you are a major, minor, or -non-major; all are welcome
- United States Institute of Theatre Technology (USITT): A student chapter that promotes learning among peers and supports theatre design and technology on campus. You have the opportunity to attend the annual USITT national conference, where you will learn about new design elements, technologies and theories, and connect with peers from around the country
Requirements
Refer to the link below for more detailed information about the program, admission requirements, sample plans, and contact information.
Theatre Design & Production Certificate