Frequently Asked Questions – Lighting Design
- How many realized, fully-mounted lighting design assignments can I expect in the program?
Students can expect at least 5 main season lighting design assignments in their area of study over the course of their 3-year program.
- How many shows do you do each season?
The Department of Theatre, Drama and Contemporary Dance produces 10 fully-mounted productions each season—six plays, two musicals, and two full-length dance recitals, in addition to a four show summer season and special events.
- Will I work on the "Main Stage" or on the "student season"?
At the graduate level, there is only the “Main Stage” experience. In our 10-production season, graduate students serve as the primary designers (lighting, costumes, scenery), technical directors, scenic artists, and properties masters for all shows. See details about the season here.
- Is the GRE required for admittance?
No, the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is not required for the M.F.A. program.
- How many students are in the program?
We have graduate students in all design & technology areas. There are 5 Scenic Designers, 5 Costume Designers, 5 Lighting Designers, 2 Costume Technology and 5 Theatre Technology (TD) students. When combined with M.F.A. Acting, Directing, and M.A. and Ph.D. graduates, the Department of Theatre and Drama has 55 graduate students and approximately 250 undergraduate majors.
- What types of financial aid are available?
Financial aid resources are available from IU's Office of Financial Aid.
- Does the program offer assistantships?
Yes, all M.F.A. students accepted into the program are offered graduate assistantships which provide a full tuition waiver, plus a competitive stipend, for each of their three years of study. Some fees cannot be waived.
- Are teaching opportunities available?
If teaching coincides with the students professional goals, opportunities exist to gain college-level teaching experience through both laboratory instruction and classroom lectures.
- What styles of shows do you do?
The department takes pride in offering a wide range of theatrical genres to students and audiences. Two musicals are produced each season in combination with six plays which are presented in diverse styles.
- How do I apply to the program?
You can find admissions information here.
- What types of job placement services are offered?
Students are mentored into their respective professions by the major professor in their area (Lighting, Costumes, Scenery, or Technical Direction) with the purpose of meeting each individual student’s professional goals.
- Where do the faculty instructors work professionally?
All Design and Technology faculty maintain active professional careers. Please see individual faculty profiles for more details.
- What jobs do recent graduates have?
Recent graduates of our programs are employed all across the country. Please see specific program web pages for further information.