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Â鶹ÊÓƵ Ìý»Ìý School of the Arts Ìý»Ìý Theatre and Dance Ìý»Ìý Production Design and Technology (BA)
Bachelor of Arts
Production Design & Technology
Design, build and run the show. Create the world audiences see.
Is This Program for Me?
Production Design and Technology is ideal for students who want to bring stories to life behind the scenes. This program focuses on the creative and technical elements that make live performance possible—from sets and lighting to sound, costumes, makeup and stage management.
Students take on meaningful production responsibilities early, gaining real experience throughout their four years.
This program may be a good fit if you:
- Enjoy hands-on, creative problem-solving
- Like working with both artistic concepts and technical tools
- Prefer collaborative, team-based environments
- Want to design, build or manage elements of live performance
- Are interested in theatre, live entertainment or production-based careers
- Apply learning in practical real-world environments?
What Will I Learn?
The Production Design and Technology program blends design theory, technical training and real-world production experience. Students develop both creative vision and practical skill through coursework and active participation in department productions.
Students Will
- Design scenic, lighting, sound, costume or makeup elements for live performance
- Use industry-standard tools, including computer-aided design and 3D modeling
- Build and paint scenery using professional construction techniques
- Understand stagecraft, production processes and technical problem-solving
- Collaborate with directors, designers and performers
- Apply design concepts from script analysis through final production
Coursework is paired with ongoing production work, allowing students to apply what they learn in real time.
What Makes Us Different?
The Production Design and Technology program emphasizes experience, access and mentorship, giving students real responsibility early while providing strong faculty support throughout the process.
Early, Hands-On Production Experience
Students are involved in mainstage and Underground Theatre productions early in their college careers, taking on real design, technical and leadership roles as their skills develop. This approach allows students to graduate with substantial résumé credits and production experience.
Faculty Mentorship and Collaboration
Faculty members are working theatre professionals who mentor students closely throughout the design and production process. In many cases, faculty serve as assistant designers, supporting student-led work while encouraging independent artistic growth.
Flexible Focus Areas
Students may choose to specialize in a specific design or technical area or explore multiple disciplines. Coursework and production opportunities are tailored to support individual interests and long-term career goals.
Career Preparation
Because fewer technicians are entering the field nationally, skilled production design and technology professionals are in high demand. Samford graduates leave with hands-on experience, professional references and a strong portfolio of real work.
Prepare to Succeed
Graduates are prepared to:
- Work in professional theatre and live entertainment settings
- Collaborate effectively in fast-paced production environments
- Adapt to evolving technology and design practices
- Communicate clearly with creative and technical teams
- Enter the workforce with practical experience already on their résumé
Career Opportunities
The Production Design and Technology degree prepares students for a wide range of creative and technical roles, including:
- Scenic designer
- Lighting designer
- Sound designer
- Costume or makeup designer
- Technical director
- Stage manager
- Production manager
- Live event or entertainment technician
Graduates find work in:
- Professional and regional theatres
- Churches and worship production environments
- Theme parks and resorts
- Cruise ships and live entertainment venues
- Graduate programs in design, theatre or related fields
Internships & Professional Development Events
Through internships, production assignments and professional networking, students gain exposure to career pathways while still in school including:
- Professional theatre internships
- Faculty-recommended industry placements
- Leadership roles within Samford productions
- Portfolio and résumé development through live projects
- Connections with local professional theatres such as Red Mountain Theatre, Virginia Samford Theatre and Birmingham Children’s Theatre
- Attendance at professional conferences and career development events such as the Southeastern Theatre Conference, Unified Professional Theatre Association, A1 Auditions, United States Institute of Theatre Technology and Lighting Design Institute
Application Information
Freshman applications for next fall are open.Freshman Early Action applications close November 1st.The freshman first scholarship deadline is December 1st.Transfer applications for the spring semester close Dec. 15.Freshman FAFSA priority and scholarship deadlines are Feb. 15.Decision day is coming! Freshman applications for fall enrollment close May 1st.Transfer applications for fall enrollment close July 1st.Freshman applications for fall enrollment are closed. Applications for next year open August 1st.Transfer applications for fall enrollment are closed. Applications for next year open September 1st.