Overview

The Theatrical Design B.F.A. at the University of Southern California provides students with a rigorous conservatory environment that blends contemporary design theory with hands-on technical application. This professional degree programme is specifically structured to prepare aspiring designers for the demands of live entertainment through a formal progression of intensive coursework and practical production assignments.

Students benefit from a unique learning model where classroom concepts are immediately tested in a professional production setting. From their first year, participants engage with the school's ambitious season of performances, designing and constructing elements under the direct supervision of expert faculty and technical staff.

Why Theatrical Design at the University of Southern California?

The programme is distinguished by its location in Los Angeles, a global epicentre for theatre, film, and television. This provides students with unparalleled access to a community of working professionals and guest artists who bring real-world insights into the classroom. The faculty consists of accomplished designers active in the industry, offering students vital mentorship and networking opportunities that are essential for launching a successful career.

Additionally, the university features a dedicated professional development centre, the first of its kind for a drama school. This resource supports students and recent alumni as they transition into roles as creators and cultural innovators. Through masterclasses and lectures led by industry leaders, students gain a competitive edge in the evolving landscape of stage and digital media.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 73260 per year
National fee: USD 73260 per year
Local fee: USD 73260 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum balances core theatrical studies with specialised design training and university-wide general education requirements. Modules may include:

Text Studies for Production
Art of Theatrical Design
Theatre Across History and Cultures
Periods and Styles
Scene Painting
Drawing and Rendering for the Theatre
Directing
Seminar in Theatre Design
Theatre Practicum

Careers with Theatrical Design

Graduates are prepared for diverse roles within the entertainment industry, focusing on scenic, lighting, and costume design. The programme's emphasis on practical experience and professional networking helps students secure positions in theatre, film, and television. By working in "real world" conditions during their studies, alumni are equipped to become successful performers, designers, and innovators in the global arts community.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Acting
Theatrical Production
Communicating Theatrical Design Concepts

Costume Construction

Art of Theatrical Design

Methods and Materials

Periods and Styles

Dramaturgy
Corset Construction

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-23 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-10 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

130

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TOEFL^® IBT

100

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PTE Academic

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IELTS

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Credits

128 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Los Angeles, United States

Disciplines

Design Drama View 1338 other Bachelors in Drama in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

130

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

100

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

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.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Official Test Scores
Transcripts: First-year applicants should submit official transcripts of all high school and college coursework completed.
Letter(s) of Recommendation: One letter is required from either your school counselor or a teacher from your school. Applicants to the School of Cinematic Arts must submit three letters of recommendation.
Portfolio, resumé and/or additional writing samples: if required by major. Performance majors may also require auditions.
Submit your fall grades (when available)

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

73260 USD / year

≈ 73260 USD / year
Out-of-State

73260 USD / year

≈ 73260 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

73260 USD / year

≈ 73260 USD / year

Living costs

Los Angeles

United States

1520 - 2570 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 Theatrical Design.

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

Los Angeles

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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