Program Overview

Program Overview

The Design and Technology program at the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) is a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree that combines creativity and technical skill. The program focuses on developing students' abilities in design, idea development, production, and entrepreneurship under the guidance of professional stage directors and practicing artists.

Focus Areas

• Scenic design
• Sound design
• Costume design
• Lighting design
• Technical direction
• Stage management
• Digital and immersive media

Program Details

• Program Type: Master's
• Academic Unit: Conservatory
• Degree Type: Master of Fine Arts
• Standard credit hours: 63
• Delivery Mode: In-person
• Typical Program Length: 1-4 years
• Typical Course Load: 1-5 per semester

Career Opportunities

Alumni of the Design and Technology MFA program can be found working with professional organizations such as the Arkansas Repertory Theatre, Constellation Theatre Company, the Hemsley Lighting Internship, Kansas City Ballet, Los Angeles Opera, New York City Ballet, Paramount, Viacom CBS, and more.

Potential Careers

• Costume designer
• Creative strategist
• Entertainment coordinator
• Lighting designer
• Materials buyer
• Production assistant
• Production manager
• Set designer
• Stage manager
• Technical director
• Theatre educator

Median Salary

$78,312 per year, based on data from Lightcast.io for Producers and Directors.

Potential Courses

Branding for Theatre Designers

This course teaches students how to create a unique brand identity and marketing toolkit for live entertainment designers.

Rendering Techniques for the Theatre Designer II

Continuation of rendering techniques with the introduction of color, pastels, watercolor, and gouache.

Repertory Theatre Residency

This residency consists of authorized participation with the Kansas City Repertory Theatre, the Department of Theatre, or an approved outside professional company.

Related Programs and Pathways

• Theatre (Major)
• Acting (Master's)
• Performing Arts Management (Certificate)

Application Process

1. Gather your materials:

• Official transcripts
• Names and locations of previous college(s) and dates attended
• Citizenship, residency, and visa information (if applicable)
• Two letters of recommendation
• A portfolio, including:
  1. Artistic renderings
  2. Drafted materials
  3. Photographs and slides
  4. Resume
• An interview with the faculty of the Division of Theatre

2. Complete the online application:

• $45 for domestic graduate students or $75 for international graduate students

Application Dates

• To start classes in Fall: Apply by December 15

Financial Aid

• 80% of first-year students seeking a master's degree or graduate certificate received financial aid
• 92% of first-year students seeking a doctoral degree received financial aid
• 77% of all degree- and certificate-seeking graduate students received financial aid