Program at a Glance
- Program
- Master
- College(s)
- College of Arts and Humanities
- Department(s)
- Dean's Office CAH
Learn to Create Exciting, Cutting-Edge Themed Experiences
UCF’s MS in Themed Experience was the first stand-alone degree program of its kind at a public university. Plus, with a unique location in Orlando — the international hub of the themed entertainment industry — this program provides you with an unprecedented opportunity for internships and collaboration with industry.
The MS in Themed Experience is designed to teach the unique creative skills, processes and concepts utilized to design and produce themed environments such as theme parks, zoos, aquariums, themed retail, dining, museums, virtual worlds and exhibitions. Throughout your coursework, you will gain first-hand experience in creating a space where guests interact with an environment designed to convey a narrative. Work on projects running from single kiosks to complex, multi-narrative theme parks where you will be able to develop an understanding of planning, production, story, design and concept development.
Upon completing the program, you will be well-prepared to enter the themed experience and entertainment industry in the creative roles of producer, show set designer and show writer. The skills learned during the course of your studies can be applied to a number of roles in exhibition design, retail design, museum exhibition creation and a variety of other creative pursuits.
There are two options for students in the MS program:
Themed Experience Design Concentration
Continuing the legacy of our existing curriculum, the Design Concentration offers courses in design, creating narrative environments and world building for themed experiences. Students will cultivate the skills needed to thrive in the industry as designers, production artists, art directors and writers, crafting the stories and environments that define world-class themed experiences.
Themed Experience Producing Concentration
The Producing Concentration introduces a trio of courses tailored to aspiring producers and project managers:
- Topics in Themed Experience Producing
- Creative Production for Themed Experiences and Attractions
- Themed Entertainment Budgeting and Project Management
This specialized track equips students with the tools to bridge the gap between creative vision and operational execution, ensuring seamless collaboration with designers, engineers, builders and other specialists. Graduates will emerge as the vital leaders who bring ambitious projects from concept to completion.
Related Programs:
Highlights
Application Deadlines
- Fall
- April 1
Application deadlines subject to change, see the Graduate Studies website for up-to-date deadlines.
Ready to get started?
Course Overview
Immersive Experience Studio
Learn about mid-sized themed experiences designed to engage guests for 1-4 hours. Students will design space, guest flow, timing and themed interaction.
Careers in Themed Experience
Work on the development of professional goals, knowledge, marketing materials and skills for the active themed experience industry professional.
Collaborative Project Studio
Work collaboratively on a large scale themed experience concept and design. Coursework will emulate a professional production environment.
This new degree builds upon the strength and diversity of UCF with its world-class programs in engineering, art, theatre and hospitality management. All here in Orlando, the perfect location for a program of this kind. We have already enjoyed great success with our popular Theatre MFA track in Themed Experience. We expect great things from our master’s students in themed experience who will be uniquely qualified to have a profound and positive impact on the field.”
Themed Experience Skills You'll Learn
- Gain a deeper understanding of the design and creative process for themed entertainment.
- Learn and apply skills such as concept development, rendering, show writing, show set design, project management, creative direction and guest experience.
- Collaborate with themed entertainment industry professionals to learn how to create viable and innovative creative work.
Career Opportunities
- Show Set Designer
- Show Writer
- Creative Director for Themed Entertainment
- Art Director
- Production Management for Themed Entertainment
- Producer
Admission Requirements
The admissions process for the MS in Themed Experience degree at UCF begins with the receipt of the general UCF graduate application requirements. From there, you will need to provide the various program application requirements.
Please note that all requested materials must be submitted by the application deadline.
In addition to the general UCF graduate application requirements, you must provide:
- Official transcripts
- A statement of interest
- Three letters of recommendation from former professors and/or professional individuals
- Resume
- Portfolio comprised of visual art and design or creative written work
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