Scenography

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Scenography at HKU University of the Arts Utrecht offers a comprehensive and immersive education dedicated to the art of creating environments and visual concepts for theater, film, television, dance, and other live performances. This program combines artistic vision, technical skills, and practical knowledge to prepare students for a dynamic career in scenography, where they become responsible for designing the visual and spatial aspects that support storytelling and enhance the audience's experience. Throughout the program, students explore a diverse range of topics including stage design, costume design, lighting, set construction, multimedia integration, and dramaturgy, fostering a multidisciplinary approach that emphasizes innovation and creativity.

The curriculum is structured to gradually build technical competencies while encouraging experimentation and artistic development. Students engage in hands-on projects, collaborative productions, internships, and workshops that simulate professional environments. They learn to work with directors, producers, and other creative professionals, developing skills in communication and teamwork essential for successful careers in the performing arts industry. Key to the program is an emphasis on concept development, visual storytelling, and the integration of contemporary technology such as digital media and scenographic software, ensuring graduates are equipped with modern tools and methods.

Located at one of Europe's leading arts universities, the Scenography program promotes an international outlook and fosters connections within the global arts community. Faculty members, distinguished practitioners and academics, provide personalized mentorship and inspire students to push boundaries and challenge traditional notions of scenography. Graduates of this program are well-prepared to pursue careers as stage designers, production designers, art directors, or independent artists, contributing innovative ideas to theatre companies, production houses, cultural institutions, and the entertainment industry. The program’s combination of artistic excellence, practical training, and professional orientation makes it an excellent choice for aspiring scenographers seeking to develop a unique, compelling, and versatile artistic practice.

The Scenography program at HKU University of the Arts Utrecht offers an innovative and comprehensive education in the design and realization of stage environments for a variety of performance genres, including theatre, dance, opera, and interdisciplinary productions. This Bachelor's degree program combines artistic creativity with technical expertise, encouraging students to develop their unique artistic voice while mastering a broad range of skills essential for a career in scenography. Throughout the program, students explore the history and theory of visual storytelling, learning how to craft immersive worlds that support and enhance live performances.

The curriculum emphasizes hands-on experience, with students engaging in a variety of projects that range from small-scale experimental works to large-scale productions. They learn essential skills such as set design, costume design, lighting design, and multimedia integration, working collaboratively with directors, choreographers, performers, and other creative professionals. The program also offers training in construction techniques, model making, digital design tools, and project management, preparing students to handle all aspects of creating compelling visual environments for the stage.

Students are encouraged to develop their own artistic identity through experimental projects, internships, and real-world production opportunities. The program fosters a critical and reflective approach to scenography, emphasizing the importance of context, audience, and narrative in the design process. Collaboration with other arts disciplines is a core component, enabling students to broaden their perspectives and integrate diverse artistic practices into their work.

As part of their education, students participate in international exchanges and workshops, gaining valuable insights into global trends and networks within the theatrical and performance arts communities. The program culminates in a final project where students showcase their creative vision and technical skills through a professional portfolio and a public presentation. Graduates of the Scenography program are well-equipped to pursue careers as stage designers, production designers, set and costume designers, or to continue their studies in master's programs specializing in performance design or related fields. Throughout their studies, students develop a versatile, innovative, and collaborative approach to scenography, ensuring they are prepared to contribute to the evolving landscape of performance arts worldwide.

Admission requirements

Upon submission of your documentation and portfolio, your motivation and project proposal, will be considered for an interview.

Other requirements

1. intake gesprek Upon submission of your documentation and portfolio, your motivation and project proposal, will be considered for an interview.
2. vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) The course is suitable for students who have just completed their bachelor's degree and are capable of conducting research independently and in a broad context, as well as for artists who have already been working as professionals at bachelor's level for several years.

The Bachelor’s degree programme in Scenography at HKU University of the Arts Utrecht offers various financing options to support students throughout their studies. International students are advised to explore scholarship opportunities, such as the HKU International Talent Scholarship, which provides financial support based on merit and talent. Additionally, students may consider applying for government grants and loans available in their home countries, as well as Dutch student finance options if they are eligible. The university also encourages students to seek external funding through arts and cultural organizations that support emerging designers and theatre professionals. Tuition fees for non-EU/EEA students are generally higher than for Dutch and EU students, and they vary each academic year. Students should budget for living expenses in Utrecht, which include accommodation, food, insurance, and study materials. HKU provides information and guidance on financial planning, including workshops and counseling services to help students manage their finances effectively. Part-time work opportunities are available for students on student visas, allowing them to supplement their income while studying. It is also recommended that students explore external scholarships and grants from cultural foundations or arts councils. The university’s financial aid office offers personalised advice and support to help students identify suitable funding avenues. International students are encouraged to start their funding applications early, given the competitive nature of scholarships and grants. Overall, the programme aims to make higher education accessible by offering comprehensive financial support options, although the responsibility for securing funding primarily rests with the students.

The Scenography master's program at HKU University of the Arts Utrecht is designed to develop students' expertise in the creation and realization of theatrical and performance environments. This interdisciplinary program combines artistic practice with theoretical research, allowing students to explore various aspects of scenography, including set design, costume design, lighting, sound, and space to craft immersive experiences for diverse performance genres. Throughout the program, students are encouraged to think critically about the role of scenography within the broader context of contemporary performance art, theater, dance, and multimedia installations. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on experience, collaborative projects, and innovative use of technology, supporting students to experiment with new forms of storytelling and environmental design. Students work closely with professional theater companies, directors, and other artists to develop their unique aesthetic perspectives and professional skills. The program also offers seminars, workshops, and lectures led by renowned industry professionals, providing insights into current trends and practices in scenography. Graduates of this program are equipped to pursue careers as creative scenographers in theater, film, television, exhibitions, and other performance-related fields, or to continue with research and postgraduate studies. The educational philosophy at HKU encourages a reflective approach to artistic practice, fostering critical thinking, originality, and technical mastery. The facilities include specialized workshops, design studios, computer labs with industry-standard software, and access to a vibrant arts community. With an international orientation, the program attracts students from around the world, fostering a diverse learning environment that enriches creative exchange and cultural dialogue. The master's degree in Scenography emphasizes both artistic innovation and professional development, preparing students to contribute meaningfully to the evolving landscape of visual storytelling and spatial design in the performing arts sector.