Lighting Designer

You'll normally need a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in a subject like:

• spatial design (exhibitions)
• interior design
• three-dimensional (3D) design
• interior architecture

You may also find exhibition design options as part of some events management, and museums and galleries courses.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• a foundation diploma in art and design
• 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• student finance for fees and living costs
• university courses and entry requirements

You could apply to do a Scenic Construction Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship with an organisation.

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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• equivalent entry requirements
• guide to apprenticeships

You may be able to get into this type of work as a junior design assistant. To do this, you are likely to need a qualification in art and design, like a diploma or an A level.

You are also likely to need experience in using computer-aided design (CAD) software packages.

You could volunteer to help set up exhibitions, for example with local arts festivals or in libraries.

This would help you gain practical skills as well as an insight into the project management that goes on behind the scenes.

Career tips

You'll need to put together a portfolio of your work to highlight your design skills to show at interview. Work experience would also give you an advantage when applying for training and jobs.

Professional and industry bodies

You could join the Chartered Society of Designers, for professional development, training opportunities and to make industry contacts.

Further information

You can find out more about creative careers from Discover Creative Careers.