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Lighting Design

M.F.A. in Theatre

Program Overview

Our Master of Fine Arts in Theatre Lighting Design and Technology is a three-year program providing professional training through a personalized tutorial-based curriculum with hands-on experiences that start in the first year and continue throughout.

Two black males on stage, one wearing a read jacking, the other a denim jacket, lit with theatrical stage lighting. A woman standing behind them, with another maile in the background.

Why choose this program?

  • The program is designed to provide each student with an individualized three-year progression of study with as much practical production work as possible.
  • The School of Performing Arts awards both full and partial support through assistantships (tuition remission and a stipend). Awards are competitive and based on qualifications and departmental needs.
  • We do offer traditional courses in varying levels in design and technology, but the core of our program are specialized one-on-one studios with the primary advisor.
  • This approach emphasizes developing an artistic vision and refining skills in lighting design and technology.

What You'll Study

To complete the degree, successful completion of a minimum of 60 credit hours is required. The program is designed to provide each student with an individualized three-year progression of study with as much practical production work as possible.

Each student participates in a required review with graduate committee members at the end of each semester of enrollment to evaluate work done, assess progress, and plan future projects and experiences.

  • Minimum GPA 3.0 (4 Scale)
  • TOEFL/ IELTS score required  (if applicable)

Learn more 

The School of Performing Arts awards both full and partial support through assistantships (tuition remission and a stipend). Awards are competitive and based on qualifications and departmental needs.

Find out what loans are available as a graduate student and other opportunities.

Deadline: Jan. 15 for consideration for funding

John Ambrosone, Lighting Design Area Coordinator
342 East Henderson Hall
540-231-9012
jambroso@vt.edu
www.johnambrosone.com

Questions?

John Ambrosone, Lighting Design Program Leader
342 East Henderson Hall
540-231-9012
jambroso@vt.edu