Master of Fine Arts in Theatre: Lighting Design

The Graduate Lighting Design Program at Illinois State University is a three-year professional training program which combines rigorous course work with consistent opportunities for realized designs.

Curriculum

The plan of study for graduate lighting design candidates is tailored to meet the needs of the individual student. Students participate in a graduate lighting design seminar every fall semester with rotating topics including theatrical performance, Shakespeare, opera, and dance. MFA lighting design students also receive training in computer drafting, rendering (both in traditional media and digital imaging), technology, research, and portfolio development. Non-design courses may include history, theory, and director/designer collaboration. Students are also encouraged to take advanced coursework in scenic, costume, and sound design.

More detailed information on program requirements and course descriptions can be found in the Graduate Catalog (pdf).

Design Opportunities

A major goal for the program is to develop a strong portfolio of realized production designs and project work related to the courses in the plan of study. Design assignments are made every semester, with students given the opportunity to work in different styles and periods. Two different venues provide proscenium, thrust and arena configurations. The graduate lighting design student can expect to design two shows per year, as well as work as a master electrician or assistant lighting designer on other productions. Graduate students may also assist faculty on School of Theatre productions or outside professional projects.

Professional Practice

The Illinois Shakespeare Festival offers MFA students the opportunity to assist accomplished professional designers from around the country. Graduate students may also seek out internship possibilities in professional theatres and shops nationwide. Students are encouraged to pursue professional work during the summers to gain new insights and build networks.

Teaching Opportunities

The Master of Fine Arts is a terminal degree and is a requirement for most university teaching positions. With teaching as a potential career option, MFA students at Illinois State University receive training and gain experience in teaching at the college/university level. Qualified MFA lighting design students are encouraged to teach at least one semester of the beginning lighting class. Professional practice credit is given for teaching assignments.

Financial Aid

MFA lighting design students may be awarded Graduate Assistantships with a full tuition waiver and a monthly stipend to aid them in defraying a portion of their educational expenses. Graduate assistantships usually require a minimum twenty-hour per week commitment of work for the School, which may include work in the light shop, maintaining equipment, and supervising undergraduate crews. Information about additional financial aid is available through the University Financial Aid office.

Recruitment

Illinois State University admits a limited number of graduate students to the lighting design program every year. The School of Theatre seeks candidates with strong artistic ability, disciplined intellectual drive, and a desire to work in a collaborative atmosphere.

Admission

Application to Illinois State University may be made on-line through the University Admissions Office. Prospective students must present a lighting design portfolio to members of the design faculty at established U/RTA interviews or on the Illinois State University campus.

Further information regarding admission requirements and the application process can be found in the Graduate Catalog (pdf). Specific questions may be addressed to , Head of the Graduate Design Program.

Success for Recent Graduates

Despite the newness of the program in lighting design at Illinois State University, recent graduates are already making their mark in the professional world. Recent graduates of the design program hold positions with Arena Stage, Barbizon Lighting, the State University of New York/Oswego, and Coastal Carolina University. For more information about School of Theatre graduates, visit our alumni page.