University of Illinois - Urbana-Champaign
Test-OptionalGreek Life
Program
No PrescreenNo AuditionInterview RequiredIn-Person or Virtual25-40 StudentsUniversity App Required
Program Characteristics
No Prescreen
No Audition
Interview Required
25-40 Students
University App Required
Program Highlights
TRAINING
•Faculty see sound design as the pinnacle of audio vocations and the accumulation of all audio disciplines
•True mentorship combining classroom lectures, training, and hands-on practical opportunities
•Current knowledge of equipment standards and industry trends
CURRICULUM
•Analog and digital sound systems and production techniques
•Live sound reinforcement, recording technology, and cueing techniques/software
•Script analysis, troubleshooting, music/effect creation, and designer collaboration
PRODUCTION EXPERIENCE
•Work on resident productions in theatre, dance, and opera (Lyric Theatre partnership)
•Rich production environment working alongside peers, faculty, and professional engineers
•Krannert Center for the Performing Arts — world-class venues and facilities
NOTABLE ALUMNI
•Lamar Farr (BFA 2015) — touring sound engineer for G-Eazy, Nas, Future, Meek Mill, and Kehlani
Key Info
University AppApplication
Apply atSchool Website
Deadlines
Early ActionNov 1, 2025
Regular DecisionJan 5, 2026
Fee
$75Waiver
Program AppApplication
Auditions
Virtual Portfolio ReviewNov 15, 2025
On-Campus (Urbana-Champaign, IL)Dec 6, 2025
Illinois High School Theatre FestivalJan 9, 2026
On-Campus (Urbana-Champaign, IL)Jan 24, 2026
Interview Requirements
RESUME (required)
•List theatre experiences, educational background, and other interests
•Include hobbies, special skills, and employment history
PORTFOLIO (required)
•Examples of sound-related work: audio files, design documentation, or production recordings
•Photos or documentation of tech work
•Sketches, drawings, or computer-generated materials
•Faculty recognizes many students have limited documentation — passion, commitment, and imagination are valued alongside experience
Good to Know
APPLICATION PROCESS
•Must complete both the university application and register for a portfolio review date
•Priority given to applicants who interview early
EARLY ACTION
•November 15 (virtual), December 6, or January 9 dates qualify for Early Action consideration
VIRTUAL SUBMISSION DEADLINES
•Nov 15 date: portfolio uploaded by Nov 9 at noon Central
•Jan 31 date: portfolio uploaded by Feb 1 at noon Central
What's The Process
PORTFOLIO REVIEW & INTERVIEW FORMAT
•Conversations with departmental leadership and area faculty
•Conversations with current Illinois Theatre students
•Portfolio review and interview with area faculty
•On-campus dates include tour of Krannert Center for the Performing Arts
VIRTUAL OPTION
•Virtual portfolio review available (Nov 15 and Jan 31 dates)
•Portfolio must be uploaded by deadline (noon Central Time)
Program info updated Mar 27, 2:02 AM
TRAINING
•Faculty see sound design as the pinnacle of audio vocations and the accumulation of all audio disciplines
•True mentorship combining classroom lectures, training, and hands-on practical opportunities
•Current knowledge of equipment standards and industry trends
CURRICULUM
•Analog and digital sound systems and production techniques
•Live sound reinforcement, recording technology, and cueing techniques/software
•Script analysis, troubleshooting, music/effect creation, and designer collaboration
PRODUCTION EXPERIENCE
•Work on resident productions in theatre, dance, and opera (Lyric Theatre partnership)
•Rich production environment working alongside peers, faculty, and professional engineers
•Krannert Center for the Performing Arts — world-class venues and facilities
NOTABLE ALUMNI
•Lamar Farr (BFA 2015) — touring sound engineer for G-Eazy, Nas, Future, Meek Mill, and Kehlani
Updated Mar 27, 2:02 AM
Academic School Information
4.00
Avg GPA (W)
42%
Admit Rate
85%
Grad Rate
36,258
Enrollment
$81,054
Earnings
10yr after
In-State Tuition
$16,004
before aid
Out-of-State Tuition
$35,124
before aid
Average Annual Cost
$14,355
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.
Family Income $0 - $30k$2,038
Family Income $30k - $48k$5,373
Family Income $48k - $75k$7,982
Family Income $75k - $110k$15,152
Family Income $110k+$28,761
