
The Theatre: Design & Technical program at Baldwin Wallace University offers a comprehensive, hands-on education for students interested in the technical and artistic elements of theatre production, including scenery, costumes, lighting, and sound. This undergraduate major combines theoretical knowledge with practical skill-building, preparing students for professional careers in the field. You will engage in coursework and real-world projects covering scenic design, lighting, costume design, stagecraft, script analysis, and stage management. The curriculum emphasizes foundation courses in literature, history, performance, and collaborative studies to develop analytical skills and a deep understanding of professional theatre practices. Student success is a core focus, with small class sizes, individualized attention, and dedicated faculty mentoring. The program encourages participation in professional apprenticeship opportunities both nationally and internationally, providing valuable experience, networking connections, and resume building. BW's faculty are active professionals with strong ties to regional theatres like Cleveland's Great Lakes Theater and national festivals such as the Idaho Shakespeare Festival. The university's facilities include both proscenium and black box theatres, offering diverse learning environments for various staging styles.
Graduates of the Theatre: Design & Technical program are prepared for a variety of roles within the performing arts industry. The comprehensive training in design, technical production, and stage management opens doors to creative and administrative positions. The program's emphasis on practical experience and industry connections helps students build strong portfolios and networks for successful careers.
International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency. Conservatory of Performing Arts students may have additional audition or portfolio requirements specific to their chosen specialization.
Tuition and fees are subject to change annually. These estimates do not include additional course fees, health insurance, or other personal expenses. All amounts are in U.S. Dollars (USD).
Baldwin Wallace University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. The Conservatory of Performing Arts holds additional accreditations where applicable.
For the 2025-2026 academic year, estimated international tuition is $37,950 USD. Estimated living costs, including housing, meals, books, and transportation, are approximately $16,000 USD per year.
International applicants must achieve a minimum score of 6.5 on the IELTS, 79 on the TOEFL iBT, or 100 on the Duolingo English Test. This requirement may be waived for students from English-speaking countries or those with significant study in English.
Applicants need to submit official high school transcripts demonstrating academic achievement, equivalent to a High School Diploma. Conservatory programs may have additional portfolio or audition requirements.
Applications typically open in August for the following Fall intake, with an Early Action deadline of November 1 and a Regular Decision deadline of February 1. Enrollment confirmation is due by May 1.
Graduates are prepared for roles such as Scenic Designer, Costume Designer, Lighting Designer, Sound Designer, Stage Manager, Technical Director, and Theatre Manager within the performing arts industry.
Baldwin Wallace University offers Merit Scholarships to first-year and transfer undergraduate students based on academic achievement. Consideration for these scholarships is typically part of the general admission application process.