Hi all! I am a CCU BFA Theatre parent (though MT, not Tech). I wanted to ask current (and future) students looking to pursue Technical Theatre to check out Coastal Carolina University. It was named in the Top 10 Technical Theatre programs in 2016/17 and is listed (at #13) in the Top 25 for 2018/19 through Onstage. I was on campus helping out with BFA auditions this weekend, and talking to the Chair of the Theatre Dept. While CCU is known for MT/Acting, it seems not as many people realize it’s stellar Technical Program. They would love to have more applicants for design and tech- in fact the head said they would take as many applicants that they can get! (Helps that the chair is a techie himself!) He also mentioned that they have helped to place EVERY single Tech graduate in a position after graduation, not something you always hear in theatre. The tech students work hard and get a ton of experience. In fact, when I was there I saw “She Kills Monsters” and the entire costume design (which was AMAZING) was done by a student. The sound, lighting, and scene designs, as well as the fight choreo/direction and of course stage management were all done by tech students, and this was a Mainstage production. All the production staff were students as well, except for the director. I love how they give them artistic control there. 
Anywhoo, I just wanted to pass it on as an often overlooked gem for technical theatre. Thanks!
@stagedoormama MT mom too, but CCU is our top choice right now, and part of the reason is the PT program. I have been looking to find out about the study abroad, as the director told D that MT students can do it. Do you have any info?
Thank you!
@4angels - Just that the time at Accademia dell’arte is AMAZING. I hear that from all the kids that go. That it is life changing. MT students can absolutely do it for a semester, but it takes some pre-planning in their schedule. If that is something your student wants to do- make sure it is known when they start so their advisor can help plan for it. Their course load may be a bit heavier to get it to work, but it is possible. They take courses in Italy that fulfill major requirements at school. I believe it is the same tuition for that semester (but you would have to check on that). I don’t believe travel is included. If you have specific questions I suggest you contact Ben Sota. He is in charge of the PT program and also anyone who goes to Italy for a semester arranges it with his help.