Explore Arts Careers

Architecture is a dynamic and multifaceted profession that blends art, science, and technology to design and construct buildings and other physical structures. Architects are problem solvers who envision spaces by considering aesthetics, functionality, safety, sustainability, and economic viability. They play a pivotal role in shaping the built environment, from individual homes to large-scale urban developments.

What the Career Is Like

A career in architecture is often a blend of creative design, technical drawing, project management, and client interaction. Architects typically work in firms ranging from small, specialized studios to large, multidisciplinary organizations. The work involves:

• Conceptualization and Design: Developing initial ideas, sketches, and digital models.
• Technical Documentation: Creating detailed blueprints, specifications, and construction documents.
• Project Management: Overseeing projects from conception through construction and coordinating with engineers, contractors, and other specialists.
• Client Relations: Meeting with clients to understand their needs, present designs to them, and manage their expectations.
• Code Compliance: Ensuring designs adhere to building codes, zoning laws, and accessibility standards.
• Problem-Solving: Addressing challenges related to site conditions, materials, budgets, and timelines.

The profession demands strong analytical skills, attention to detail, creativity, and excellent communication abilities. It can be demanding because of its deadlines and complex projects but also is highly rewarding, offering the opportunity to see tangible results of one’s vision and contribute to the physical landscape.

Professional Resources

Connecting with professional organizations and utilizing industry resources is crucial for aspiring and practicing architects. These resources offer networking opportunities, continuing education, job boards, and industry standards.

• American Institute of Architects: The leading professional organization for architects in the United States, providing resources, advocacy, and a vast network of practitioners.
• National Council of Architectural Registration Boards: The official organization that facilitates the licensure and certification of architects.
• Architectural Record: A prominent architecture magazine providing news, project features, and industry insights.
• ArchDaily: A widely recognized online platform for architecture news, projects, and resources.
• American Society of Landscape Architects: A valuable resource for environmental design that can foster close collaborations with those working in the distinct discipline of landscape architecture.

Potential Career Paths

An architecture degree can open doors to a wide array of specialized roles and related professions.

• Licensed Architect: Designing, documenting, and overseeing projects to construct various building types—the traditional path.
• Urban Designer/Planner: Focusing on the design and development of cities, neighborhoods, and public spaces.
• Landscape Architect: Designing outdoor spaces, parks, and environmental features.
• Interior Designer: Specializing in the functional and aesthetic design of interior spaces.
• Construction Manager: Overseeing the construction process, ensuring projects are completed on time and within budget.
• Historic Preservationist: Working on the restoration and adaptive reuse of historic buildings.
• Sustainable Design Consultant: Specializing in environmentally friendly building practices and energy efficiency.
• Building Information Modeling Specialist: Focusing on advanced digital modeling and data management for architectural projects.
• Architectural Renderer/Visualizer: Creating realistic images and animations of architectural designs.
• Facilities Manager: Managing the operations and maintenance of buildings and properties.
• Real Estate Developer: Acquiring, developing, and selling properties.

Each spring the School of Architecture co-hosts Career XPO, where you can meet and interview with employers. The school’s career office also provides mock interviews, assists with job searches, and helps graduating students connect with professional firms.

The field of art and design—everything from multimedia theatre to product design to art education to ceramics—provides a rich ground for experimentation, cultivates a respect for ancient traditions, builds a broad knowledge base of world cultures, and offers avenues for gaining valuable expertise. Professionals use their creativity, technical skills, and critical thinking to communicate ideas, evoke emotions, solve problems, and enhance human interaction with environments and objects. It’s a field where innovation, aesthetics, and purpose converge.

What the Career Is Like

A career in art and design is incredibly diverse, with roles ranging from independent studio artists to integral members of large design teams. The day-to-day experience depends on the chosen specialization but common threads include:

• Creative Conception: Brainstorming, sketching, and developing original ideas for visual solutions or artistic works.
• Technical Execution: Utilizing a wide array of tools and software (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite, 3D modeling software, traditional art materials) to bring designs or artworks to life.
• Problem-Solving: Addressing client needs, user experience challenges, or artistic concepts through design principles and creative solutions.
• Collaboration: Working with clients, marketing teams, engineers, writers, and other designers to achieve project goals.
• Feedback and Iteration: Presenting work, receiving critiques, and revising designs according to feedback.
• Market Awareness: Staying current with industry trends, technologies, and audience preferences.
• Portfolio Development: Building and refining a strong portfolio to showcase skills and style.

Many art and design professionals work in agencies, in-house corporate design departments, tech companies, media outlets, museums, and galleries or as freelancers and entrepreneurs. The work often demands adaptability, resilience, a keen eye for detail, and a passion for continual learning.

Professional Resources

Engaging with professional organizations and industry-specific platforms is vital for networking, staying informed, finding opportunities, and advancing in art and design fields. On campus you can expand your knowledge and gain experience through training at Krannert Art Museum and Japan House.

• AIGA: The professional association for design, offering resources, events, and a job board for graphic designers.
• Industrial Designers Society of America: An association dedicated to advancing the profession of industrial design through advocacy, education, and community.
• College Art Association of America: An organization that supports scholarship and teaching in the visual arts and art history by providing resources for artists, art historians, and educators.
• The One Club for Creativity: A nonprofit group that champions creative excellence in advertising and design, offering awards, education, and events.
• Behance: A leading online platform to showcase and discover creative work.
• Dribbble: A community for designers to share work, get feedback, and find inspiration.
• Communication Arts: A premier source of inspiration for graphic designers, art directors, design firms, ad agencies, interactive designers, illustrators, and photographers.

Potential Career Paths

The breadth of the field leads to an extensive range of specialized career paths.

• Graphic Designer: Creating visual concepts using computer software or by hand to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, or captivate consumers. (e.g., branding, web graphics, print layouts, packaging).
• Illustrator: Creating images for books, magazines, advertisements, and other media, often with a unique artistic style.
• Animator: Producing sequences of drawings, computer-generated images, or models to create the illusion of movement for films, games, or web content.
• Web Designer or UI/UX Designer: Focusing on the visual layout, user interface (UI), and user experience (UX) of websites and applications.
• Industrial Designer: Developing concepts for manufactured products from automobiles and electronics to furniture and household appliances.
• Fashion Designer: Creating original clothing, accessories, and footwear designs.
• Fine Artist: Creating original works of art (painting, sculpture, photography, printmaking, etc.) for exhibition, sale, or commission.
• Art Director: Overseeing the visual style and images for various projects, such as magazines, product packaging, and film and television productions.
• Exhibit Designer: Designing and creating engaging displays for museums, galleries, trade shows, and retail spaces.
• Photographer: Capturing images for commercial, artistic, or journalistic purposes.
• Game Artist/Designer: Creating visual assets (characters, environments, objects) and contributing to the overall aesthetic and user experience of video games.
• Textile Designer: Creating patterns and designs for woven, knitted, or printed fabrics.
• Set Designer/Production Designer: Designing and creating the visual environments for film, television, theatre, or live events.
• Visual Merchandiser: Designing and arranging store displays to attract customers and promote sales.

The School of Art and Design supports career aspirations through workshops with visiting artists, a powerful lecture series with influential practitioners, and assistantships in labs and studios.

Arts administration is a vital field dedicated to the management and leadership of arts and cultural organizations. It bridges the gap between artistic creation and public engagement, ensuring that cultural institutions, performances, and exhibitions thrive. Professionals in this area combine business acumen with a deep understanding and passion for the arts, managing everything from finances and marketing to programming, fundraising, and community outreach for theatres, museums, musical groups, dance companies, galleries, and nonprofit arts centers.

What the Career Is Like

A career in arts administration is dynamic and multifaceted, often requiring a blend of strategic thinking, creativity, and strong organizational skills. Administrators typically work in nonprofit or for-profit arts organizations, government agencies, or educational institutions. The daily work can involve:

• Strategic Planning: Developing long-term goals and visions for the organization’s artistic and operational success.
• Fundraising and Development: Securing financial support through grants, individual donations, corporate sponsorships, and special events.
• Marketing and Communications: Promoting programs and events, managing public relations, and engaging with audiences through various channels.
• Financial Management: Budgeting, financial reporting, and ensuring fiscal sustainability.
• Program Management: Planning, coordinating, and executing artistic programs, exhibitions, or performances.
• Audience Engagement: Developing initiatives to attract, retain, and diversify audiences.
• Operations and Facilities Management: Overseeing the day-to-day running of the organization, including venue management.
• Human Resources: Managing staff, volunteers, and artists.
• Community Relations: Building partnerships and fostering engagement with local communities.

This field demands strong interpersonal skills, adaptability, and a genuine commitment to the arts. It can be challenging, particularly in resource-constrained environments, but offers immense satisfaction in contributing to the cultural vibrancy of communities.

Professional Resources

Connecting with professional associations and utilizing industry-specific resources is essential for networking, professional development, and staying current with trends in arts administration.

• Association of Arts Administration Educators: A professional organization that represents higher education programs in arts administration, offering insights and connections.
• Americans for the Arts: The nation’s leading nonprofit organization for advancing the arts and arts education, providing research, advocacy, and resources.
• National Endowment for the Arts: An independent federal agency that funds and promotes artistic excellence, creativity, and innovation and offers valuable insights into funding and policy.
• ArtsJournal: A comprehensive portal for arts news, criticism, and cultural policy discussions.
• Artist Communities Alliance: An extensive resource for managing and participating in residency programs.
• Grantmakers in the Arts: The only national association of arts funders, providing a forum for grantors to learn and connect.

Potential Career Paths

An arts administration background can lead to a diverse range of roles within the cultural sector.

• Executive Director/CEO: Leading the overall strategic direction and operations of an arts organization.
• Development Director/Officer: Focusing on fundraising, donor relations, and securing financial support.
• Marketing and Communications Director/Manager: Overseeing branding, advertising, public relations, and audience engagement.
• Program Director/Manager: Curating, planning, and executing artistic programs and events.
• Education and Outreach Coordinator: Designing and implementing educational programs and community engagement initiatives.
• Operations Manager: Managing the day-to-day logistics, facilities, and administrative functions.
• Financial Manager/Controller: Handling budgeting, accounting, and financial reporting.
• Box Office/Front of House Manager: Overseeing ticketing, customer service, and audience experience.
• Curator/Exhibitions Manager: Researching, developing, and managing exhibitions.
• Artist Manager/Agent: Representing and managing the careers of individual artists or groups.
• Event Planner: Specializing in the logistics and execution of arts-related events and festivals.
• Arts Policy Analyst: Working with government or advocacy groups on arts-related legislation and funding.
• Grant Writer: Crafting compelling grant proposals to secure funding.

Krannert Art Museum has internships, graduate assistantships, engagement programs, and other opportunities for arts administrators. At Krannert Center for the Performing Arts students can join volunteer programs and participate in the Krannert Center Student Association.

A career in dance is a profound journey into movement, expression, and artistry. It encompasses a wide range of disciplines, from classical ballet and contemporary dance to jazz, hip-hop, folk, and experimental forms. Professionals in this field utilize their bodies as instruments to communicate stories, emotions, and ideas, whether on stage, in film, through choreography, or in educational settings. Beyond performance, a dance career often involves rigorous training, creative collaboration, and a deep understanding of human physicality and artistic communication. Through their practice, dance students also learn life skills such as discipline, analysis, teamwork, and creative problem-solving that are valuable in all professions.

What the Career Is Like

The nature of a dance career can vary significantly depending on the chosen path, but it is universally characterized by discipline, dedication, and passion. For performers, the daily life often includes:

• Intensive Training: Participating in daily classes in various techniques to maintain and enhance physical prowess, flexibility, strength, and artistry.
• Rehearsals: Learning, refining, and perfecting choreography for performances, which requires precision and high levels of stamina.
• Performances: Executing live performances in theatres, studios, or other venues or performing for film, television, or music videos.
• Auditions: Trying out for roles in companies, productions, or projects, which can be an ongoing, competitive process.
• Travel: Touring with companies or productions, which involves adapting quickly to new environments and often taking transportation for long distances.

Beyond performing, other dance careers may involve:

• Choreography: Creating original dance pieces, often working with dancers to bring their vision to life.
• Teaching: Instructing students of all ages and skill levels in various dance forms, focusing on technique, artistry, and physical well-being.
• Arts Management: Working in administrative roles for dance companies, festivals, or arts organizations (e.g., marketing, fundraising, programming).
• Therapeutic Practice: Using movement as a therapeutic tool to promote physical, emotional, and cognitive integration.

The dance world demands resilience, adaptability, strong collaborative skills, and a commitment to lifelong learning and physical maintenance. While challenging, it offers immense personal and artistic fulfillment.

Professional Resources

Connecting with professional organizations, educational institutions, and industry platforms is crucial for networking, finding opportunities, and advancing in the dance field.

• Dance/USA: Provides resources, advocacy, and a job board—the national service organization of the field.
• American Dance Festival: Offers intensive summer programs, performances, and professional development opportunities.
• National Dance Education Organization: Supports dance educators across all settings, offering conferences, publications, and professional development.
• Dance Magazine: Covers news, features, and opportunities in professional dance.
• Backstage: Lists auditions for dance roles in theatre, films, television shows, and commercials.
• International Association for Dance Medicine and Science: Focuses on promoting health, well-being, and scientific understanding in dance.

Potential Career Paths

A strong background in dance can lead to a diverse range of specialized roles, both on and off the stage.

• Professional Dancer: Performing with dance companies in theatrical productions (Broadway, touring shows), films, television productions, and music videos or as a freelance artist.
• Choreographer: Creating original dance works for companies, theatrical productions, film, television, or independent projects.
• Dance Educator/Teacher: Teaching dance at studios, K–12 schools, universities, community centers, or specialized conservatories.
• Dance Studio Owner/Director: Managing and operating a dance school or training facility.
• Dance Therapist: Using movement and dance to help individuals achieve emotional, cognitive, physical, and social integration.
• Rehearsal Director or Ballet Master/Mistress: Working with a dance company to maintain artistic quality and ensure dancers are prepared for performances.
• Dance Critic/Journalist: Writing reviews, articles, and analyses of dance performances and the dance world.
• Arts Administrator: Managing the operations, marketing, fundraising, and programming for dance companies or organizations.
• Movement Coach/Consultant: Working with actors, athletes, or public speakers on physicality, posture, and expressive movement.
• Fitness Instructor/Personal Trainer: Leveraging knowledge of anatomy and movement to guide others in physical conditioning.
• Costume Designer: Creating specialized costumes that facilitate movement and enhance the aesthetic of dance performances.
• Lighting Designer: Designing lighting plots to shape the atmosphere and focus attention in dance productions.
• Dance Historian/Archivist: Researching, documenting, and preserving the history of dance.

The Department of Dance has a powerful network of alumni, and many regularly return to campus to teach, dance, and choreograph. Visiting experts in diverse dance forms teach, create new pieces, and collaborate with both faculty members and students. All of these experiences help undergraduates make connections with professional artists around the planet. In addition, the department keeps a job board and a list of summer intensives, conferences, and training opportunities.

Landscape architecture blends art, environmental science, and design to create functional, beautiful, and sustainable outdoor spaces. Landscape architects design everything from parks, plazas, and residential gardens to large-scale urban developments, ecological restoration projects, and regional land-use plans. They consider natural elements like topography, water, and vegetation, alongside human needs and environmental impact, to shape landscapes that enhance the quality of life and protect natural systems.

What the Career Is Like

A career in landscape architecture is highly interdisciplinary, often involving collaboration with architects, urban planners, civil engineers, environmental scientists, and community stakeholders. Professionals typically work in private design firms, government agencies (e.g., parks departments, planning commissions), and nonprofit organizations or as independent consultants. The work involves:

• Site Analysis and Planning: Researching existing conditions, including ecology, hydrology, climate, and human use patterns, to inform design decisions.
• Conceptual Design: Developing ideas and preliminary sketches for outdoor spaces while considering aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability.
• Technical Documentation: Producing detailed drawings, specifications, and construction documents for contractors.
• Project Management: Overseeing projects from initial concept through construction, ensuring designs are implemented correctly and on budget.
• Client and Stakeholder Engagement: Meeting with clients, community groups, and public officials to present designs, gather feedback, and build consensus.
• Environmental Stewardship: Integrating sustainable practices, stormwater management, native plantings, and ecological restoration principles into designs.
• Problem-Solving: Addressing complex challenges related to site constraints, environmental regulations, accessibility, and community needs.

The profession demands strong analytical and design skills, creativity, a deep understanding of ecological systems, and excellent communication abilities. It offers the unique opportunity to contribute to public health, environmental resilience, and the aesthetic enrichment of communities.

Professional Resources

Connecting with professional organizations and utilizing industry resources are critical for aspiring and practicing landscape architects to build networks, stay informed about leading developments, and advance their careers.

• American Society of Landscape Architects: The national professional association for landscape architects in the United States, offering advocacy, education, resources, and a job board.
• Council of Landscape Architectural Registration Boards: An organization that facilitates licensure and certification for landscape architects across North America.
• Landscape Architecture Magazine: The professional association’s award-winning magazine, featuring projects, news, and critical discussions in the field.
• The Cultural Landscape Foundation: A nonprofit group that educates the public about the importance and irreplaceable legacy of cultural landscapes.
• Land8: Landscape Architects Network: An online platform for professionals to connect, share work, and discuss industry topics.

Potential Career Paths

A degree in landscape architecture opens doors to a wide variety of specialized roles and related professions.

• Licensed Landscape Architect: Designing and managing projects for private clients, public agencies, or nonprofit organizations.
• Urban Designer/Planner: Focusing on the design and strategic planning of cities, neighborhoods, and public realm improvements.
• Site Planner: Specializing in the layout and organization of land for various developments, ensuring efficient and sustainable use.
• Environmental Planner/Consultant: Working on environmental impact assessments, conservation, and restoration projects.
• Park Designer/Manager: Designing and overseeing the development and maintenance of public parks and recreational areas.
• Garden Designer: Specializing in the design of residential and small-scale private gardens.
• Campus Planner: Developing long-term master plans for university or institutional campuses.
• Green Infrastructure Specialist: Focusing on sustainable stormwater management, green roofs, and other ecological design solutions.
• Geographic Information Systems Specialist: Utilizing mapping and spatial analysis tools for environmental planning and design.
• Horticultural Consultant: Providing expertise on plant selection and care and landscape maintenance.
• Construction Administrator: Overseeing the implementation of landscape designs, ensuring quality and adherence to plans.
• Researcher/Educator: Teaching and conducting research at universities and contributing to the advancement of the profession.

Each spring the Department of Landscape Architecture co-hosts Career XPO, where you can meet and interview with employers. The school’s career office also provides mock interviews, assists with job searches, and helps graduating students connect with professional firms.

A career in music is a journey into sound, expression, and creativity, encompassing a vast array of disciplines from performance and composition to education, therapy, and the business side of the industry. Musicians use their talent, dedication, and technical skills to create, interpret, teach, and manage sound in diverse contexts. Whether on stage, in a studio, in a classroom, or behind the scenes, music professionals contribute to the cultural fabric of society, evoking emotions, telling stories, and connecting people through the universal language of sound.

What the Career Is Like

The daily life of a music professional varies dramatically because of the field’s breadth and depth. Careers often demand intense dedication, daily practice, ongoing attention to improving and gaining skills, and a willingness to adapt to evolving industry landscapes.

Performers

• Rigorous Practice: Honing technical skills, learning repertoire, and maintaining physical health and abilities.
• Rehearsals: Collaborating in ensembles, orchestras, bands, or theatrical productions to perfect performances.
• Performance: Participating in concerts, studio recordings, theatrical productions, religious services, or private events.
• Auditions: Competing for roles in orchestras, bands, touring shows, or recording projects.
• Networking and Self-Promotion: Building connections, managing bookings, and marketing oneself as an artist.

Composers/Songwriters

• Creative Process: Developing musical ideas, melodies, harmonies, and lyrics; orchestrating and arranging.
• Notation and Software: Using specialized software (e.g., Sibelius, Finale, Logic Pro) to write and produce scores or tracks.
• Collaboration: Working with performers, directors, producers, or lyricists.
• Licensing and Publishing: Navigating the business side of intellectual property and royalties.

Educators

• Instruction: Teaching private lessons, leading ensembles, or instructing in K–12 schools, colleges, or community programs.
• Curriculum Development: Designing engaging lesson plans and educational materials.
• Performance Preparation: Guiding students in preparing for recitals, auditions, or competitions.

Music Industry Professionals

• Business Operations: Managing finances, contracts, and logistics for artists, venues, or labels.
• Marketing and Promotion: Developing strategies to promote music, artists, or events.
• Technical Tasks: Working as sound engineers, producers, recording technicians, or instrument makers/repairers.

A career in music requires passion, discipline, creativity, and often an entrepreneurial spirit. While it can be competitive and demanding, it offers profound personal and artistic fulfillment.

Professional Resources

Connecting with professional organizations, educational institutions, and industry platforms is crucial for networking, finding opportunities, and staying current with trends in the music field.

• National Association of Schools of Music: The accrediting agency for music and music-related disciplines that provides valuable standards and information.
• American Federation of Musicians: A labor union representing professional musicians in the United States and Canada, which advocates for fair wages and working conditions.
• Music Teachers National Association: An organization that supports music teachers through professional development, certification, and advocacy.
• National Association for Music Education: A group that advances music education by promoting the understanding and enjoyment of music.
• Recording Academy: The home of the Grammy Awards that recognizes excellence in music and supports the music community.
• ASCAP/BMI/SESAC: Performing rights organizations that collect and distribute royalties for songwriters, composers, and publishers.
• Berklee Online: An education portal with a wide range of online courses and resources for music production, business, and performance.

Potential Career Paths

A strong background in music can lead to a diverse range of specialized roles, both artistic and administrative.

Performer

• Orchestral Musician
• Chamber Musician
• Soloist (Vocal/Instrumental)
• Band Member
• Session Musician
• Opera Singer
• Musical Theatre Performer
• Performer at Religious Services

Composer/Arranger/Songwriter

• Concert Music Composer
• Film/TV/Game Scorer
• Jingle Writer
• Songwriter
• Arranger/Orchestrator

Educator

• K–12 Music Teacher
• University Professor (Performance, Theory, History, Composition)
• Private Music Instructor
• Ensemble Director (Choir, Band, Orchestra)
• Community Music Program Leader

Music Industry and Production

• Sound Engineer/Audio Engineer
• Music Producer
• Recording Studio Manager
• Artist Manager
• Concert Promoter/Booking Agent
• Music Publicist
• Music Publisher
• Music Retail/Instrument Sales
• Luthier/Instrument Repair Technician
• Music Librarian
• Music Journalist/Critic

Other Paths

• Music Therapist
• Music Archivist
• Arts Administrator
• Music Copyright Specialist
• Music Software Developer

Krannert Center for the Performing Arts is not only where you’ll give concerts: it’s a world-class location to experience music, dance, theatre, multimedia productions, and other creative works that can’t be captured in a few words. Musicians from the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, drummer Moussa Bolokada Conde, opera stars like Nathan Gunn, the members of Kronos Quartet, and hundreds of others perform there and also present master classes and give talks. Undergraduates in the School of Music find mentors and develop long-term professional partnerships through these global connections.

The field of sustainable design continues to grow as more organizations hire people like our graduates to analyze and promote sustainability programs. The broad academic experience in both graphic and industrial design, architecture, landscape architecture, and urban planning; a familiarity with sustainability concepts; visual and written communication skills; experience with building energy systems, LEED standards, and life-cycle analysis; and interdisciplinary team skills developed through coursework will be valuable to hiring organizations.

Our team managing the bachelor’s degree program has information and resources to support your career goals.

A career in theatre is a vibrant pursuit dedicated to live storytelling, performance, and the creation of immersive experiences. It encompasses a vast array of disciplines, from acting and directing to design, technical production, stage management, and arts administration. Theatre professionals collaborate intensely to bring scripts to life, evoke emotions, challenge perspectives, and connect with audiences through the unique immediacy of live performance. It’s a field driven by passion, creativity, and a profound commitment to shared artistic vision.

What the Career Is Like

The daily life of a theatre professional is incredibly varied and often demanding, characterized by intense periods of collaboration, rehearsal, and performance. The specific experience depends heavily on the chosen specialization.

Performers

• Auditions: Trying out for roles in plays, musicals, films, television productions, or commercials, which is a highly competitive process.
• Rehearsals: Spending hours in collaboration dedicated to character development, blocking, choreography, vocal work, and perfecting scenes.
• Performance: Delivering live performances, often multiple times a week, which requires stamina, focus, and adaptability.
• Training: Honing craft through ongoing classes in acting, voice, movement, and specialized skills.

Directors and Playwrights

• Conceptualization: Developing the artistic vision for a production or writing original scripts.
• Collaboration: Working closely with designers, actors, and the production team to realize the vision.
• Guidance: Leading rehearsals, providing direction to actors, and making artistic decisions.

Designers (Set, Costume, Lighting, Sound, Projection)

• Conceptualization: Developing visual and auditory concepts that support the director’s vision and the production’s themes.
• Technical Drawing and Modeling: Creating detailed plans, renderings, and models using software or traditional methods.
• Realization: Overseeing the construction, procurement, and implementation of design elements.

Technical and Production Staff

• Logistics and Coordination: Managing schedules, cues, props, costumes, and all technical aspects of a production.
• Troubleshooting: Solving problems that arise during rehearsals and performances.
• Building/Operating: Constructing sets, hanging lights, wiring, running sound, and operating equipment.

Arts Administrators

• Management: Handling finances, marketing, fundraising, programming, and operations for theatre companies or venues.
• Audience Development: Engaging with the public and building community connections.

Theatre careers demand resilience, problem-solving skills, strong communication, and a deep appreciation for collaborative artistry. While the work often involves irregular hours and demanding schedules, the reward of bringing stories to life and connecting with an audience is immense.

Professional Resources

Connecting with professional organizations, unions, and industry publications is key to networking, finding opportunities, and advancing in the theatre field.

• Actors’ Equity Association: The labor union representing actors and stage managers in the United States.
• United States Institute for Theatre Technology: A professional association for theatre design and technology that provides resources, conferences, and job listings.
• Theatre Communications Group: The national organization for the American professional not-for-profit theatre, offering publications, grants, and conferences.
• Stage Directors and Choreographers Society: The independent national labor union representing professional stage directors and choreographers.
• Dramatists Guild of America: The professional association for playwrights, composers, and lyricists writing for the American stage.
• Backstage: A widely used resource for audition listings for theatre, film, and television.
• Playbill: A leading source for Broadway and theatre news, auditions, and features.

Potential Career Paths

A strong background in theatre can lead to a diverse range of specialized roles, both onstage and behind the scenes.

Performance

• Actor (Stage, Film, TV, Voice-over)
• Musical Theatre Performer
• Dancer
• Improviser/Comedian
• Puppeteer
• Stunt Performer

Directing and Writing

• Stage Director
• Playwright/Dramaturg
• Screenwriter

Design

• Set Designer
• Costume Designer
• Lighting Designer
• Sound Designer
• Projection Designer
• Props Master/Mistress

Technical Management and Production

• Stage Manager
• Technical Director
• Carpenter
• Electrician
• Audio Engineer
• Costume Shop Manager
• Stitcher/Cutter/Draper
• Wig and Makeup Artist
• Scenic Artist/Painter
• Rigger
• Automation Technician

Administration and Management

• General Manager/Managing Director
• Marketing and Communications Manager
• Development/Fundraising Manager
• Box Office Manager
• House Manager
• Company Manager
• Casting Director
• Producer

Education

• Theatre Educator
• Voice/Dialect Coach
• Movement Coach

Other Paths

• Drama Therapist
• Theatrical Choreographer
• Event Planner
• Exhibit Designer
• Arts Critic/Journalist

The Department of Theatre’s Alumni Advisory Board not only mentors current students and provides input on academic programs but also sponsors a potent network that connects graduates with one another and industry professionals.

Urban planning is a dynamic and interdisciplinary profession focused on the design, development, and management of cities, towns, and regions. Urban planners work to create sustainable, equitable, and vibrant communities by addressing challenges related to land use, transportation, housing, economic development, environmental quality, and social equity. They analyze data, engage with communities, and develop policies and plans that guide growth and improve the quality of life for residents. It’s a field where strategic thinking, community engagement, and a vision for the future converge to shape the places we live, work, and play.

What the Career Is Like

Urban planning blends analytical research, policy development, community engagement, and design thinking. Planners typically work in government agencies (local, regional, state, federal), private consulting firms, nonprofit organizations, or academic institutions. The daily work can involve:

• Data Analysis and Research: Collecting and analyzing demographic, economic, environmental, and spatial data to inform planning decisions.
• Policy Development: Drafting zoning ordinances, land-use plans, comprehensive plans, and other regulatory frameworks.
• Community Engagement: Facilitating public meetings, workshops, and surveys to gather input from residents, businesses, and stakeholders.
• Spatial Design and Mapping: Using geographic information systems and other tools to create maps, visualizations, and design concepts for urban spaces.
• Project Management: Overseeing planning projects from conception through implementation and coordinating with various departments and external partners.
• Environmental Review: Assessing the environmental impacts of proposed developments and ensuring compliance with regulations.
• Transportation Planning: Developing strategies for efficient and sustainable transportation systems, including public transit, cycling, and pedestrian infrastructure.
• Economic Development: Crafting plans to attract businesses, create jobs, and foster local economies.
• Housing and Community Development: Addressing housing affordability, neighborhood revitalization, and social equity issues.

The profession demands strong analytical skills, excellent written and verbal communication, negotiation abilities, and a commitment to public service and community well-being. It offers the opportunity to make a tangible difference in how communities grow and function.

Professional Resources

Connecting with professional organizations and utilizing industry resources are vital for aspiring and practicing urban planners to network, stay informed, and advance their careers.

• American Planning Association: The national professional organization for urban planners in the United States, offering advocacy, education, resources, and a job board.
• American Institute of Certified Planners: A professional group that provides certification for qualified planners.
• Association of Collegiate Schools of Planning: An organization of university planning programs that fosters education and research.
• Planetizen: A leading online publication for urban planning news, jobs, events, and commentary.
• Urban Land Institute: A global research and education organization focused on land use and real estate development.
• Congress for the New Urbanism: An organization promoting walkable, mixed-use neighborhood development, sustainable communities, and healthier living conditions.

Potential Career Paths

A degree in urban planning can lead to a wide variety of specialized roles within the public, private, and nonprofit sectors.

• City/County Planner: Working for local government to manage land use, zoning, and development projects.
• Transportation Planner: Specializing in designing and improving transportation systems and infrastructure.
• Environmental Planner: Focusing on conservation, resource management, and sustainable development.
• Community Development Specialist: Working to revitalize neighborhoods, promote affordable housing, and address social equity.
• Geographic Information Systems Specialist: Utilizing spatial data and mapping technologies for planning analysis and visualization.
• Urban Designer: Focusing on the physical design of urban spaces, streetscapes, and public realms.
• Economic Development Planner: Developing strategies to attract businesses, create jobs, and foster local economies.
• Housing Planner: Addressing housing needs, affordability, and policy development.
• Regional Planner: Working at a broader scale, planning for multiple jurisdictions or entire regions.
• Consultant: Providing expert planning services to private developers, government agencies, or nonprofits.
• Historic Preservation Planner: Specializing in the protection and adaptive reuse of historic buildings and districts.
• Real Estate Developer: Acquiring, planning, and constructing the built environment.
• Policy Analyst: Researching and advising on urban policy issues for governments or think tanks.
• Researcher/Educator: Teaching and conducting research at universities and contributing to the advancement of planning theory and practice.

The Department of Urban and Regional Planning maintains a job board, and the close relationships that develop between students, faculty, and staff in this small program ensures that you will have numerous encouraging colleagues to support you after graduation.