Major in Theatre, Sound Design and Technology Concentration

Program Overview

Colorado State University offers a B.A. in Theatre with a Sound Design and Technology Concentration. Graduates may pursue careers in sound design or engineering for the arts, television, and live productions industry.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The B.A. in Theatre, Sound Design and Technology Concentration at Colorado State University focuses on equipping students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the field of sound design for various mediums, including theatre, film, and live events.

Program Objectives:

• SOUND DESIGN and TECHNOLOGY FOR THEATRE, FILM, and INDUSTRY: Students will explore the specific techniques used by sound designers to develop and communicate their ideas through research, synthesis of skills (including recording, mixing, audio engineering, sound control programming, content creation), and application of emerging technologies.
They will gain a robust understanding of how sound designers support, collaborate, and interact with the creative team.
• DESIGN ARTISTRY: Students will develop an understanding of the Sound Designer as a collaborative artist, creative visionary, and technician.
They will practice organizational, design, musical, and technical skills to realize a show from concept to production and build a portfolio of creative design and/or technical work.

Program Description:

The program emphasizes a hands-on approach, with students taking courses in Drawing for Theatre, Computer Assisted Drafting for Theatre, two levels of Sound Design courses, Projection Design, Design Portfolio and Professional Prep, and exploring other design fields (such as Projection Design, Lighting Design, Costume Design, or Set Design) to understand the collaborative nature of theatre production. Students also participate in practicum classes where they apply their design skills to departmental productions and/or live events design teams.

Careers:

The Sound Design and Technology Concentration prepares students for a variety of careers, including:

• Sound designers for theatre, musicals, opera, or dance
• Sound engineers for stage, television, and film
• Sound mixers for stage, dance, live productions, television, and film

Other:

• Portfolio Review: In addition to applying to CSU through the Office of Admissions, a successful portfolio review with CSU Theatre faculty is required to enter the B.A.
in Theatre, Sound Design and Technology Concentration. The portfolio review also serves as the scholarship audition.
• Program Total Credits: The program requires a minimum of 120 credits, with at least 42 credits being upper-division (300- to 400-level).