Acting

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

The Bachelor of Arts in Acting at Shorelight University of Illinois Chicago is your gateway to a dynamic professional career in the performing arts. This rigorous undergraduate degree is crafted for aspiring actors eager to hone their craft through intensive training in movement, voice, and performance techniques. You will explore the rich history of theatre, from premodern drama to contemporary playwrights, developing a deep understanding of character, script analysis, and stagecraft. This program is ideal for students passionate about storytelling and ready to immerse themselves in a vibrant artistic community.

Over four years of full-time, on-campus study, you will engage in a progressive curriculum designed to build your skills incrementally. Your journey will include foundational acting classes, advanced studies in specific dramatic styles like Shakespeare and Chekhov, and practical experience through mandatory practicum and performance courses. You will work alongside faculty who are respected professional artists, gaining invaluable insights and feedback. Upon graduation, you will be prepared to audition for professional theatre, film, and television roles, equipped with a comprehensive skill set and a strong artistic foundation.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This acting program offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to develop a well-rounded performer. Students will engage in rigorous training across various acting techniques, including American drama, Shakespeare, and modern playwrights like Brecht and Beckett. The program also emphasizes the crucial elements of voice and movement, with courses progressing from foundational skills to advanced applications in character and style. Additionally, students will explore theatre history and gain practical experience through practicum and elective courses.

1 Fall Semester

Theatre History I: Premodern Drama
Movement I: Body/Self
Introduction to Acting I
Practicum in Theater: Run Crew
Academic Writing I: Writing in Academic and Public Contexts
General Education Core course

2 Spring Semester

Fundamentals of Theatre Technology or Fundamentals of Theatre Design
Acting II: Adaptations
Voice I: Voice
Script Analysis for Theatrical Production
Academic Writing II: Writing for Inquiry and Research
UIC First-Year Dialogue Seminar

3 Fall Semester

Practicum in Theater: Build Crew
Advanced Acting: American Drama
Voice II: Speech
Movement II: Body/Space
General Education Core course
Elective

4 Spring Semester

Movement III: Somatics
Advanced Acting: Chekhov
Voice III: Advanced Voice and Speech
Elective
Second course in students’ selected design, production, and technology sequence

5 Fall Semester

Theatre History II: Modern Theatre
Movement IV: Style
Advanced Acting: Shakespeare
Voice IV: Text Styles
General Education Core course OR Theatre Selective

6 Spring Semester

Advanced Acting: Brecht, Beckett, Pinter
Voice V: Dialects
Movement V: Character
General Education Core course OR Theatre Selective
General Education Core course

7 Fall Semester

Practicum in Performance
Movement VI: Movement Lab
Advanced Acting: Ensemble
General Education Core course OR Theatre Selective

8 Spring Semester

Advanced Acting: Audition
General Education Core course OR Theatre Selective
General Education Core course
Electives

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,996.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,996.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,996.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,996.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 127,984.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,430.00 - USD 1,788.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,600.00 - USD 5,400.00
Transport USD 840.00 - USD 1,440.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,200.00 - USD 2,040.00
Estimated Total USD 5,640.00 - USD 8,880.00

Living cost estimates are based on Chicago Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

94%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accreditation & Assessment ServicesAmusement & Recreation ServicesCurriculum & Instructional DesignEdTech & E-LearningEducation Policy & AdministrationFilm & Television ProductionHigher Education & UniversitiesMusic & Performing ArtsSecondary & High School EducationTheme Parks & Leisure

Top Employers Hiring for this course

NBCUniversal

School of Rock

Why Study Acting at University of Illinois Chicago

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

University of Illinois Chicago typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at University of Illinois Chicago in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Acting at University of Illinois Chicago

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours a week during classes and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is needed for on-campus jobs.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet English test requirements, you can submit scores from TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. For example, a TOEFL overall score of 80 is needed.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as Actors, Directors, Production Assistants, Stage Managers, and Theatrical Designers.

What will I actually study in this course?

Acting majors actively participate in the department’s productions in conjunction with their ongoing class work. UIC’s Mainstage Season performances and student-generated projects are under the

When can I start — what are the intake months?

Intake months for the Acting program are January, May, and August. Make sure to apply in advance to secure your spot.
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