Select Program
Program Characteristics
No Prescreen
No Audition
Interview Required
In-Person Only
University App Required
Program Highlights
TRAINING AREAS
•Coursework and hands-on experience in costume design, lighting design, and scenic design
•Specialized classes in scene painting, pattern drafting, CAD, and computer rendering
•Study includes drawing, painting, theater history, period styles, and directing
FACILITIES & EXPERIENCE
•Stevens Building houses scene construction shop, lighting shop and lab, and costume construction shop
•Regular supervised assignments in the school production program
•Internship opportunities with theater companies, production groups, and performing arts centers
NOTABLE ALUMNI
•Daniel Ostling — 2x Tony-nominated scenic designer (Clybourne Park, Metamorphoses)
•Dan Binder — Jeff Award-winning lighting designer, resident at Lyric Opera of Chicago and Steppenwolf Theatre
Key Info
University AppApplication
Apply atSchool Website
Apply atCommon App
Deadlines
PriorityDec 1, 2025
RollingAug 1, 2026
Program AppApplication
Audition
On-Campus Interview & Portfolio ReviewFeb 16, 2026
NUA Audition Fee
$20
Cash or check only — applies to National Unified Auditions only
Interview Requirements
PORTFOLIO
•Bring examples of your work to the interview: photographs, sketches, drawings, or actual items you have created
•Work does not need to be limited to theatre — show overall creativity, process, and originality
•Examples include leather work, jewelry, ceramics, and other creative mediums
Good to Know
APPLICATION PROCESS
•Apply to NIU for general admission
•Register for an interview and portfolio review with design and technology faculty
•No separate audition portal required
AFTER ACCEPTANCE
•Must contact the School of Theatre and Dance by May 1 to reserve your place in the entering class
What's The Process
INTERVIEW & PORTFOLIO REVIEW
•Admission is based on NIU general admission plus a successful interview and portfolio review with design and technology faculty
•Interview held in-person at NIU campus
•Contact Jazzie Eleazar-Schaefer (jeleazar@niu.edu) for information
Program info updated 14h ago
Academic School Information
3.40
Avg GPA
70%
Admit Rate
51%
Grad Rate
11,277
Enrollment
$57,808
Earnings
10yr after
In-State Tuition
$12,700
before aid
Out-of-State Tuition
$12,700
before aid
Average Annual Cost
$12,909
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$9,047
Family Income $30k - $48k$9,740
Family Income $48k - $75k$12,674
Family Income $75k - $110k$17,806
Family Income $110k+$21,307
