In this program, hobby skills are valuable, especially in theatre or music production, set design, costume production making, and acting. Knowledge of sewing and woodworking are especially useful.

Even though its focus is mainly on live theatre, this program also offers skills you can use for television and film productions.

Independent art and theatre schools often focus more intensively on practical arts and career preparation, while colleges and universities tend to require more in the way of general studies.

Often, theatre design and technology programs are combined with film or dance programs. In addition, some theatre design and technology programs are called "sceneography."

During your undergraduate studies, you are expected to take more responsibility with each stage production. By the end of your degree, you should be a stage manager, designer, or set director for at least one production. This is especially important if you are considering graduate school.

Some programs (especially graduate) allow you to specialize. You can concentrate on costume, sound, lighting, or set design. You can also specialize in technical production, stage management, or another related area.

Many programs coordinate internships with local theatres, operas, and ballets. This allows you to gain professional experience and network with professional theatre designers.

The use of computer-aided design and graphics software is common in theatre design programs, especially in the area of set design. Many programs offer courses in this area.