Program Overview
The Theatre Design at University of Alberta is a Master programme in Arts & Design over 24 months, delivered On-campus. This programme equips graduates with advanced knowledge and practical skills for professional and academic careers in the field.
Students gain a rigorous grounding in both the theoretical foundations and applied dimensions of arts & design. The programme combines coursework, research components, and practical projects that develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and specialist expertise relevant to industry and research needs.
Graduates of the Theatre Design programme are well-prepared for careers in academia, industry, government, and the private sector across Canada and internationally. The programme provides an internationally recognised qualification within the Bologna higher education framework.
Key Program Features
- Duration: 24 months
- Language of instruction: English
- Study mode: On-campus
- English requirement: IELTS 6.5
- Tuition: EUR 6,422 (Tuition (Year)) — International students; EUR 3,686 (Tuition (Year)) — National students
- Location: Edmonton, Canada
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Theatre Design programme are prepared for diverse careers in arts & design:
- Creative Director
- Graphic / UX Designer
- Art Director
- Curator
- Visual Artist
- Media Producer
Program Curriculum
Course Structure
- Normally a two-year degree; a one-year degree is available if qualifications are met.
- Numerous studio and practical opportunities to develop and refine your skills in lighting, costume and set design
- Intensive Studio Design Courses
- Specific courses in Costume, Lighting and Scenic Painting Techniques
- Assistant Design assignments to Professional Designers and Faculty
- Individualized interaction with faculty theatre design specialists, and a highly experienced team of production technicians, wardrobe staff and administrators
- MFA Theatre Design candidates at design lights, sets or costumes for 3 productions of varying style and scale, and they are responsible for the total production design of a U of A Studio Theatre main stage production as their thesis project
- How to be a Professional Theatre Designer
- Drawing and Painting Techniques
- Graphic Presentation Skills
- Artistic Collaboration and Communication
- Time Management
- Portfolio Development and Presentation
Admission Requirements
Academic Requirements
Successful applicants have an undergraduate degree and are seeking to further develop and refine their theatre design skills. Professional design experience and a resume of related theatre experience are preferred, although an additional qualifying year is possible.
Application materials include:
Official transcripts from all universities attended
3 letters of recommendation
Letter of intent outlining why you want to pursue a professional theatre design degree, where you see yourself after this program, and anything else you can say to let us know about your ambitions, skills, experiences and interests.
Portfolio containing examples of freehand drawing, and any other artwork you may have done. Please include examples of any previous work done in the theatre, in any capacity. The committee is attempting to evaluate your accomplishments as well as your potential. Approximately 25 pieces are sufficient to show your ability. Work can be sent either on CD or by e-mail in a PDF file. If you choose to send work done on paper, please do not send originals. Please also include a resume. Candidates will have to make arrangements to pay for portfolios to be returned by post or courier.
TOEFL or IELTS score, if applicable.
English Proficiency: IELTS 6.5 or equivalent.
Tuition & Financial Information
Tuition Fee
EUR 6,422 (Tuition (Year)) — International students; EUR 3,686 (Tuition (Year)) — National students
Tuition fees: EUR 6,422 (Tuition (Year)) — International students; EUR 3,686 (Tuition (Year)) — National students
IELTS requirement: 6.5
Financial Aid & Scholarships
Contact University of Alberta directly for scholarship, grant, and financial aid information for this programme. Many European universities offer merit-based and need-based funding for international and domestic students.
About University of Alberta
University of Alberta
Edmonton, Canada
public research university in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
University Profile- Application Deadline Feb, 2027
- Start Date Sep, 2026
- Language English
- Duration 24 months
