Music, Movie and Theater Production

A pathway that ties together fine arts and technical skills.

The Career Field

Entertainment engineering is a pathway that ties together fine arts and technical skills; a hybrid of art/ design and engineering. Study in this area can lead to jobs in a variety of environments and venues such as theater, recording studio, theme parks and cruise lines. A sample of possible careers include: set design, set construction, lighting design and technician, audio technician, theater production manager, house manager, stage manager, stage carpenter, costume designer, prop manager, drapers, scenic artists.

Employment of Entertainment Engineering related occupations are projected to grow 21 percent from 2020-2030.

The Program

Students will learn techniques used by industry professionals through a project-based approach to instruction which incorporates direct experiences with technical theater skills and professionals. Key areas of instruction and experience include: elements of design; set design/ dressing and construction; wardrobe and costume design and production; audio and lighting design and implementation; production, stage and front of house management; analysis of technical requirements. An internship and capstone project provides opportunity for direct experience implementing and synthesizing student knowledge and skills.

In this program, you will

• Demonstrate design and production skills.
• Determine elements required from script or a plan and constraints of venue and budget.
• Apply technical skills in scenery and prop construction, audio systems, lighting systems, wardrobe and costumes, and production, stage and front of house management.
• Demonstrate clear and concise communication, leadership, critical thinking, problem solving, perseverance, creativity and teamwork skills.
• Demonstrate an awareness of issues around diversity, professional ethics, and environmental responsibility.