Select Program
Program Characteristics
Prescreen Required
No Audition
Interview Required
In-Person or Virtual
12-24 Students
University App Required
Program Highlights
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
•Accepts up to 15 students per year — small classes and one-on-one faculty interaction
•Comprehensive curriculum in scenery, costumes, lighting, and sound
•Costume design minor available
FACILITIES & TRAINING
•State-of-the-art Design Studio with 24 CADD workstations at custom-designed drafting tables
•On-site scene shop equipped for metal and wood construction; costume shop with dye facilities
•Lighting lab with automated fixtures, digital audio, and projection systems
•Masterclasses with nationally recognized professional artists
NOTABLE ALUMNI
•Robert D. Maverick — Special makeup effects for Star Trek, Dexter, Pirates of the Caribbean, Thor, Westworld
•Justin Humphres — Associate Scenic Designer for Ain't Too Proud and Summer on Broadway
•Joshua Reid — LA Drama Critics Circle Award; Associate Sound Designer for multiple Broadway productions
•Patricia Nichols — Associate Lighting Designer for Jersey Boys, Billy Crystal's 700 Sundays
•Kate Swanborg — Technology Communications Executive at DreamWorks Animation
•Nicholas Davidson — Senior Lighting Designer at Thinkwell Group; Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi
Key Info
University AppApplication
Apply atSchool Website
Deadlines
Early ActionDec 15, 2025
RollingJun 1, 2026
Fee
$40Waiver
Program AppApplication
Apply atAcceptd
Deadline
Priority (recommended)Feb 7, 2026
Auditions
Virtual InterviewNov 15, 2025
Michigan Thespian FestivalDec 12–13, 2025
Illinois HS Theatre FestivalJan 8, 2026
Illinois HS Theatre FestivalJan 10, 2026
Prescreen Requirements
PORTFOLIO (upload to Acceptd)
•Photos of production work
•Designs
•Examples of any drafting (architectural, industrial, mechanical, etc.)
•Graphic work or projects (posters, programs, t-shirt designs, etc.)
•Examples of carpentry, craft skills, sewing, etc.
•Any other art or design-related work (art projects, schoolwork)
NOTE
•A formal portfolio with realized design work is NOT required for a successful interview
•Portfolio materials are reviewed before the interview so the conversation can focus on getting to know you
•Contact Kathryn Wagner (kathryn.wagner@wmich.edu) for questions about sharing portfolio materials
Good to Know
APPLICATION PROCESS
•Step 1: Submit WMU university application at wmich.edu/apply
•Step 2: Submit theatre application + portfolio via Acceptd
MULTIPLE PROGRAMS
•You must apply separately for each program you are interested in
•Application fee is only required for the first program — use coupon code 02wmu25 for subsequent applications
•Contact theatre-info@wmich.edu if the Acceptd fee presents a financial hardship
TIMELINE
•Rolling admission with no hard deadline
•Apply by February 7 to ensure spots remain available
•Apply to the university before December 15 for maximum scholarship opportunities
CONTACT
•Email Kathryn Wagner (kathryn.wagner@wmich.edu) with questions
What's The Process
INTERVIEW FORMAT
•In-person or virtual with design faculty and staff
•Conversational — opportunity to discuss your work and theatre interests
•Portfolio materials reviewed before the interview
•Dress professionally and comfortably
INTERVIEW DAY
•Speak with current students
•Tour of facilities (in-person) or virtual tour
•Q&A with faculty
Scholarship Info
•Department awards scholarships in design, technical, and other areas
•Named scholarships include Denison, Gemela Memorial, and Maverick (Michigan high school graduates)
•Based on academic achievement, experience, accomplishments, and service
•New majors considered via interview; current students compete in March
•Apply at wmich.scholarshipuniverse.com
Program info updated 14h ago
Academic School Information
3.53
Avg GPA (W)
85%
Admit Rate
In-State Tuition
$15,298
before aid
Out-of-State Tuition
$19,098
before aid
Average Annual Cost
$18,701
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.
