How do I become a lighting designer?

Question

I am considering a career in the area of lighting design, unfortunately there aren't many resources online that provide much information. So I'm wondering are there any schools that provide a specializes degrees in this field. Should I go for a degree in theater with a concentration in lighting? For people who work in this field how hard is it to find a job, and how well does it pay. I'm not looking to become immediately wealthy, but I would like to know I'd be able to support myself with this job. Are there any websites or resources online that will give me more information???

Thanks so much for taking time to help me out!

Answer 1

Are you talking about specifically designing theater lighting? The University of Colorado was the first to have a program for lighting design. There may be other schools now, I don't know. Most electrical designers and engineers for buildings have to learn and know about lighting design since lighting falls under part of a building's electrical system. There are also more specialized lighting designers who either have a lighting type degree or have a degree in architecture/interior design. I would recommend that you look at Univ of Colorado. Their program takes a more technical approach to lighting design as opposed to an aesthetic approach like architects. You'll be much more marketable. If you email me offline, I can give you contact information for a lighting engineer who graduated from this program.

Answer 2

It is a very narrow field with few employment opportunities. Many lighting designers are also scenery designers. Go to a very good college and graduate school for theatrical design. Then make sure they train you to pass the union membership exam.