BA in Theatre - Design and Technical in Columbia United States | University of Missouri

Students pursuing a BA in Theatre with a Design/Technical focus explore various aspects of stage production including scenic, lighting, costume, and sound design, along with theatre technology and stage management. Their curriculum expands to include foundational and advanced courses in scenic and costume construction, makeup application, stagecraft, costume crafts, pattern development, scenic painting, and theatre architecture. These design students first conceptualize their visions through hand-drawn sketches before bringing them to life using 3D modeling in computer labs, blending classic theatrical methods with cutting-edge digital tools like computer-aided design, digital projection, and audio mixing technologies. Through hands-on involvement, students contribute to diverse productions—ranging from faculty-led mainstage musicals and plays to student-directed performances and workshops—while assuming key positions as designers (scenic, lighting, costume, sound, projection, makeup), stage managers, and technical crew (carpenters, electricians, riggers, stitchers, etc.). Alumni establish careers across the entertainment sector as designers, technical specialists, educators, Broadway producers, theatre administrators, and behind-the-scenes professionals in venues nationwide, from historic theatre renovations to film/TV productions in major entertainment hubs like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago. Our supportive alumni network fosters ongoing collaboration within the industry.