Lighting Design and Technology

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What is Lighting Design and Technology ?

This program is a concentration within Theatre. Lighting designers help set the mood on the stage. They are responsible for planning and executing the way light is used in the theater. Our program includes a genuine mentorship and incorporates different types of learning. Classroom lectures and training will combine with many hours of hands-on opportunities. You will gain experience working with the latest technology in lighting systems for all kinds of shows and venues. You can apply directly into this concentration, although you must submit a portfolio before being accepted.

Career Options

Followspot operation
Light board programming
Lighting design
Projection design

Post-Graduation Success¹

88% employed or continuing education

53% employed after graduation

35% attending graduate school

$37,778 average starting annual income

Sample employer destinations: Baltimore Center Stage (2), Cru (1), Everyday Humans (1) View All

Sample grad school destinations: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, New York University, Bristol Old Vic Theatre School View All

Program Resources

College of Fine & Applied Arts Program Webpage Degree Requirements

Review Criteria

First-Year Major-Specific Criteria

Strong talent review (audition or portfolio)

View All Review Criteria

Transfer Criteria

Transfer Handbook

Graduation & Retention²

4.1 years to degree

96% first-year retention rate

70% four-year graduation rate

80% six-year graduation rate

Annual Program Costs³

Illinois Resident

Tuition: $14,912
Fees: $5,182
Expenses: $19,558
Total: $39,652

Non-Resident

Tuition: $37,588
Fees: $5,182
Expenses:$19,898
Total: $62,668

International

Tuition: $38,630
Fees: $5,182
Expenses: $19,898
Total: $63,710

Related Majors

Scenic Design - FAA

Scenic Technology - FAA

Sound Design and Technology - FAA

Stage Management - FAA

¹ Post-graduate data was collected through the Illini Success initiative, which primarily relies on self-reported survey data sources. Statistics are aggregated from the past three years. Please note that total compensation may be greater than annual salary as other forms of compensation (e.g., signing bonus, commission, benefits) are not included. For more information on Illini Success data and methods, please visit the Illini Success website. For average wage or salary information five years after entry into an occupation, visit the Post-Secondary Employment Outcomes Explorer.

² Graduation and retention data comes from several majors within a similar interest area. Data may not yet be available for newly created programs. Years-to-degree data is only available for programs from which you can earn a degree. Retention and graduation rates are only available for programs that you can apply directly into. Retention rates reflect retention to the university, not necessarily retention within the major.

³ "Expenses" are estimated and include books, supplies, housing, and other living expenses. The exact amount you’ll pay depends on where you decide to live, the meal plan you choose, and your overall lifestyle. To learn more about costs, please visit the Office of Student Financial Aid website. To learn the average monthly student loan payment over a period of 20 years based on estimated cost, visit the Illinois College2Career website.