Overview

The Theatre - Design and Technology programme at the University at Buffalo provides a comprehensive foundation for students aspiring to excel in the technical and creative sectors of live performance. This professional degree combines rigorous theoretical study with extensive practical application in world-class venues. Students develop a versatile skill set that encompasses the artistic and mechanical demands of modern theatre production.

Why Theatre - Design and Technology at University at Buffalo?

Students benefit from training in high-specification environments, including the proscenium-style Drama Theatre, the flexible Black Box Theatre, and the Katharine Cornell Theatre. The curriculum is built on a foundation of individualized mentorship from expert faculty, ensuring that every student receives tailored guidance. Beyond the classroom, the university provides unique opportunities for paid experience at the Center for the Arts and collaborations with professional regional theatres.

The department maintains strong links with prestigious national organisations such as the United States Institute for Theatre Technology (USITT) and the Kennedy Center American Theatre Festival. These partnerships allow students to showcase their work on a national stage and gain industry recognition before they graduate. The programme's focus on experiential learning ensures that students are not just observers but active creators in every production season.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 14250 per semester
National fee: USD 14250 per semester
Local fee: USD 3535 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum covers all essential aspects of technical production and design. Modules may include:

Technical Theatre
Visual Imagination
Theatre
Scenic Design
Lighting Design
Costume Design
Sound Design
Projection Design
Stage Management

Careers with Theatre - Design and Technology

Graduates are highly sought after by regional theatres, national touring companies, and major entertainment brands. The programme prepares individuals for diverse roles in television, film, theme parks, and cruise lines. Alumni have successfully secured positions with prominent organisations, demonstrating the degree's strong industry reputation.

Common career paths and employers include:

Technical Direction and Stage Management
Design roles at Disney Parks and Santa Fe Opera
Production positions with Bandit Lites or Chicago Flyhouse
Specialised fabrication at Parson-Meares LTD
Live event coordination for TheaterWorks USA
Advanced academic research in specialised design fields

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Costume Construction

Script Analysis

Drafting

Theatre Crafts

Stage Management

World Theatre Before 1700

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-22 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-10-01 00:00:00 , International
Starting 2027-08-25 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-31 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

105

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Buffalo, United States

Disciplines

Design General Engineering & Technology Drama View 1325 other Bachelors in Drama in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

2.5

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

105

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

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PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

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Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

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98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Admission to UB’s freshman class is selective and is based in part on the quality of your secondary school academic record and the number of spaces available in the class

You should feel confident applying to UB if you have an above-average academic record and have taken challenging courses in high school to help prepare you to be successful at university

English language requirements

Personal Essay

You must submit one (1) teacher recommendation

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

28500 USD / year

≈ 28500 USD / year
Out-of-State

28500 USD / year

≈ 28500 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

7070 USD / year

≈ 7070 USD / year

Living costs

Buffalo

United States

920 - 1560 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Theatre - Design and Technology.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Buffalo

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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