Design and Technical Theatre (BFA)

Intensive, Undergraduate-Focused Design and Production Training

Our BFA program is one of only a few in the country where undergraduate students design and run every production. Faculty input is strictly advisory. Because of this, you will gain the massive hands-on experience you need for your degree while building a varied, professional portfolio.

The Conservatory produces a robust annual season of six to eight theatrical productions, including one to three directing capstones. We also collaborate on an annual opera studio with the Department of Music and three dance concerts with the Dance program. You can also take advantage of extra performance and production opportunities through our weekly one-act plays, known as E.T.s (Every Tuesday).

Evaluation and Professional Showcase

All students enter the program through an interview and portfolio review. Once enrolled, you will follow a steady, step-by-step curriculum. Our faculty members use a continuous feedback system to keep you regularly updated on your progress. We measure your learning through regular coursework and mandatory, end-of-semester Portfolio Reviews. During these reviews, the full faculty looks at your work to help you grow.

During your fourth year, you will take part in our annual Showcase. Design, technical and craft majors exhibit their talents and portfolios for visiting alumni, agents, casting directors and artistic directors. This event helps you transition from academics into professional practice.

David Huffman Memorial Endowed Scholarship Fund Recipient

“My time here at Webster has broadened my viewpoints and my ability to empathize with others. In the world of entertainment, more and more diverse voices are being heard.”

Dee Graham

BFA in Costume Construction, ’22

Create with Professional Partners

A major highlight of Webster's Sargent Conservatory is our close connection to professional performing arts organizations. We share our production spaces, build shops, paint decks and advanced technical equipment directly with professional companies. This unique setup lets you work alongside union artists, directors and designers on real-world productions.

• On-Campus Partners: The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis (The Rep) and Opera Theatre of Saint Louis.
• Regional Partners: The Muny (a one-of-a-kind musical theatre association), St. Louis Shakespeare Festival, Variety Theatre, Arrow Rock Lyceum Theatre and STAGES St. Louis.

Conservatory students regularly land prestigious internships across the country. Our students have worked with Walt Disney World, Cirque du Soleil, the Guthrie Theater, the Old Globe Theatre, Hudson Scenic Studios and the Kennedy Center.

Mentorship from Experienced Faculty

Sargent Conservatory’s faculty members are active, working professionals and dedicated educators. They are fully committed to nurturing your artistic growth. Our faculty members hold impressive credits on Broadway, off-Broadway, and in regional and international theatre. They also work in film, television, voice-over and corporate events.

And because many of our teachers are currently employed by our professional partners, you will have regular opportunities to work on professional projects while earning your degree.

Many of our full-time undergraduate students at Webster University receive some sort of financial aid. Webster’s Office of Financial Aid is committed to making a college education affordable.

Additionally, the Sargent Conservatory of Theatre Arts and Dance awards annual scholarships designated specifically for theatre majors. In 2023-2024, the department awarded over $225,000 in scholarships to its students. Most of these awards are reserved for our third- and fourth-year undergraduates. Every year we also allot some scholarships to first-year students. These awards are made in consultation with the recruiting faculty and the Office of Financial Aid. There is no separate application process. Please contact Andrew Laue, Associate Director of Fine Arts Admissions at lauear@webster.edu for additional information.

Dorothy & Matthew Englis Annual Theatre Scholarship Recipient

“With my degree, I have the ability to come in contact with so many people and hopefully, make their show experience a positive one, where they feel comfortable and can have fun, too!”

Lucy Garlich

BFA in Wig and Makeup Design, ’22