How to Start a Career in Lighting Design is an important question for anyone passionate about light and scenography. This fascinating profession blends creativity with technology and plays a key role in architecture, performance, events, and public spaces. In this article, you’ll find tips on what lighting design involves, where you can study it, and how to build a solid professional path in the field.
Lighting design is not a limited field—it applies across multiple artistic and technical areas:
Urban lighting – functionality and aesthetics in public spaces
Interior design – lighting for residential and commercial spaces
Architectural lighting – highlighting façades and monuments
Theatre and live performance – light as an integral part of the stage story
Corporate events and weddings – ambience and visual impact for special occasions
Where Can You Study Lighting Design in Europe?
For in-depth training, many universities across Europe offer dedicated lighting design programs:
- Aalborg University – Denmark
Program: MSc in Lighting Design
Duration: 2 years | Tuition: Free for EU citizens
Highlights: Nordic approach combining practical and theoretical training - Wismar University – Germany
Program: Master in Lighting Design & Management
Duration: 2.5 years (part-time) | Cost: ~€4,000/year
Focus: Global design, real-world applications - Rose Bruford College – United Kingdom
Program: BA in Lighting Design
Duration: 3 years | Cost: ~£9,250/year (may vary for EU students)
Notable for: Intensive practice in theatre and live events - HAWK University – Germany
Program: BA in Lighting Design
Duration: 3.5 years | Cost: Free (small administrative fees)
Focus: Interdisciplinary, strong emphasis on both design and technology - Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama – United Kingdom
Program: MA in Lighting Design & Production
Duration: 1 year | Cost: ~£15,000/year
Focus: Live performance and artistic production
The Platform la-symphonie.com – Support for Beginners
For those starting a career in lighting design, www.la-symphonie.com offers:
- Personalized consulting – professional guidance tailored to your goals
- Introductory and advanced courses – aligned with the realities of the Romanian event market
- Access to a network of mentors – active professionals in diverse fields: theatre, corporate, festivals
