Program
Prescreen RequiredNo AuditionInterview RequiredIn-Person OnlySelective12-24 StudentsUniversity App Required
Program Characteristics
Prescreen Required
No Audition
Interview Required
Selective
12-24 Students
University App Required
Program Highlights
TRAINING
•Pre-professional scenic design training with equipment found on Broadway and in major theatres
•Small class sizes allow for one-on-one, hands-on mentoring from working professionals
•Hands-on experience in every type of major production responsibility within emphasis
PRODUCTIONS & OPPORTUNITIES
•Design for theatre, opera, and dance productions across 300+ annual conservatory performances
•Multiple chances to work with professional artists from concept through opening night
•Two capstone projects in final year demonstrating portfolio-ready design work
•Shenandoah Summer Music Theatre (SSMT) provides networking with young professionals
CAREER PREPARATION
•Professional preparation includes building website, cover letters, portfolio, and resume
•Scenic Design Certificate (12 credits) available for additional specialization
•Graduates prepared for professional work in theatre, film, theme parks, creative display design, and museum installation
Key Info
University AppApplication
Apply atSchool Website
Apply atCommon App
Deadlines
Early ActionNov 4, 2025
PriorityJan 15, 2026
RollingAug 1, 2026
Program AppApplication
Apply atSchool Website
Deadline
Program App DeadlineJan 15, 2026
Auditions
On-CampusNov 22, 2025
On-CampusFeb 7, 2026
On-CampusFeb 28, 2026
Prescreen Requirements
PORTFOLIO
•Photographs of finished production work
•Show-related sketches, artwork, and drafting strongly encouraged
•Non-production personal artwork, creative projects, and photography accepted
LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION
•Letters from supervisors and/or directors recommended
RESUME
•Artistic resume
Good to Know
APPLICATION PROCESS
•Choose EITHER Common Application OR Shenandoah Application—do NOT submit both
•Upload portfolio at least 2 weeks before scheduled interview date
What's The Process
INTERVIEW & PORTFOLIO REVIEW
•Interview paneled by Theatre Design & Production faculty
•Present resume and portfolio during approximately 15-minute review
•Digital portfolios: screen share or pull up work on your computer
Scholarship Info
•Conservatory scholarship based on interview and portfolio review
Program info updated Mar 23, 12:20 AM
TRAINING
•Pre-professional scenic design training with equipment found on Broadway and in major theatres
•Small class sizes allow for one-on-one, hands-on mentoring from working professionals
•Hands-on experience in every type of major production responsibility within emphasis
PRODUCTIONS & OPPORTUNITIES
•Design for theatre, opera, and dance productions across 300+ annual conservatory performances
•Multiple chances to work with professional artists from concept through opening night
•Two capstone projects in final year demonstrating portfolio-ready design work
•Shenandoah Summer Music Theatre (SSMT) provides networking with young professionals
CAREER PREPARATION
•Professional preparation includes building website, cover letters, portfolio, and resume
•Scenic Design Certificate (12 credits) available for additional specialization
•Graduates prepared for professional work in theatre, film, theme parks, creative display design, and museum installation
Updated Mar 23, 12:20 AM
Academic School Information
3.73
Avg GPA (W)
77%
Admit Rate
69%
Grad Rate
2,116
Enrollment
$58,433
Earnings
10yr after
Tuition & Fees
$36,950
before aid
Average Annual Cost
$30,298
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$24,356
Family Income $30k - $48k$26,715
Family Income $48k - $75k$26,635
Family Income $75k - $110k$30,332
Family Income $110k+$33,591
