How to become a set designer
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
University
You can study for a higher national diploma or degree in a relevant subject, like:
- fine art
- interior design
- architecture
- 3D design
- theatre design
You could also do a course in performing arts production or design for film and television at some universities, colleges and drama schools.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a higher national diploma
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
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College
You could do a college course to learn some of the skills you'll need for this job. Courses include:
- level 3 Certificate or Diploma in Production Arts
- level 3 Diploma in 3D Design and Crafts
- level 3 Art and Design
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course
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Apprenticeship
You could do a Scenic Artist Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship.
This usually takes around 2 years to complete as a mix of study and workplace learning.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
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Work
You could start in a junior position and work your way up. For example, you could start as a:
- set designer's assistant
- art department trainee
- prop maker
- TV or film production runner
Volunteering
You'll find it useful to build a portfolio of your design work to show to potential employers. This might include sets you've designed for amateur theatre, school plays or films.
To get experience to include in your portfolio, you could get involved in:
- student theatre or film
- local amateur or community theatre
- low budget independent films
More information
You can find out more about working as a set designer from ScreenSkills and other creative careers from Discover Creative Careers.