Cornish College of the Arts
Test-OptionalFaith-Based
Select Program
Program Characteristics
No Prescreen
No Audition
Interview Required
In-Person or Virtual
12-24 Students
University App Required
Program Highlights
TRAINING
•Translate design ideas from concept to fully realized productions
•Collaborate with directors and design teams to produce sketches, renderings, and scale models
•Create drafting plans and serve as lead scenic designer
•Work in the scene shop as a leader and advocate for all collaborators
FACILITIES
•Scene shop and scenic design studios
•Access to theater main stage and dance department productions
CAREER PATHS
•Scenic designer, technical director, props designer, production designer
•Opportunity to work alongside IATSE Union staff
Key Info
University AppApplication
Apply atCommon App
Apply atSchool Website
Deadlines
Early ActionNov 15, 2025
Regular DecisionJan 15, 2026
Rolling
Fee
$60Waiver
Interview Requirements
PORTFOLIO (required)
•Work done in scene painting or designing scenery for productions or classroom projects
•Work that shows understanding of or work with three-dimensional space is especially valued
•Sketches, renderings, and scale models of scenery
•Drafting plans from previous productions
ARTIST STATEMENT (required)
•Submit via Redhawk Admissions Portal
ARTS RECOMMENDATION (required)
•One recommendation from a teacher who can speak to your artistic talents
Good to Know
PORTFOLIO SUBMISSION
•All materials uploaded to Redhawk Admissions Portal "Portfolio" section
•Submit Portfolio Certification Form when materials are complete
ENROLLMENT
•Fall and January start dates available
What's The Process
TWO-PART PROCESS
•Submit a scenic design portfolio to Redhawk Admissions Portal
•Interview with the chair of Performance Production
SUBMISSION
•Upload to "Portfolio" section after Common App submission
•Submit Portfolio Certification Form when complete
Scholarship Info
CORNISH SCHOLARSHIPS
•Admitted students are automatically considered — no separate application required
•Both merit-based and need-based aid available
•Cornish awards over $3.5 million in scholarships annually
•98% of admitted students receive funding assistance
•Both U.S. citizens and international students are eligible
Program info updated 4 days ago
Academic School Information
70%
Admit Rate
52%
Grad Rate
480
Enrollment
$33,696
Earnings
10yr after
Tuition & Fees
$39,913
before aid
Average Annual Cost
$39,060
after typical aid
Average annual cost is often lower than tuition because it accounts for grants and scholarships most students receive. It includes tuition, room & board, books, and supplies.
Annual Cost by Family Income
Family Income $0 - $30k$28,155
Family Income $30k - $48k$30,948
Family Income $48k - $75k$36,693
Family Income $75k - $110k$40,853
Family Income $110k+$44,405
