Illinois State University United States

Theatre - Acting (B.A.)

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

Course Overview

Embark on your journey to becoming a professional actor with the Theatre - Acting (B.A.) at Illinois State University. This undergraduate degree is crafted for aspiring performers who are ready to commit to rigorous training and develop their craft under the guidance of experienced faculty. You will explore the complexities of character development, stage presence, and the art of storytelling, preparing you for a dynamic career in the performing arts. This program is designed to challenge you, encouraging you to become a courageous theatre artist and a thoughtful global citizen.

This full-time, on-campus Bachelor of Arts program is structured over four years, providing a comprehensive immersion into the world of acting. You will engage in practical training, scene study, and performance opportunities, building a robust portfolio and honing your skills through dedicated coursework. The curriculum requires a minimum of 120 credit hours, ensuring a deep and thorough understanding of theatrical performance. You will graduate with the confidence and expertise to pursue professional acting roles in theatre, film, and television, or to apply your developed communication and performance skills in diverse professional fields.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Arts in Theatre with an Acting concentration provides a comprehensive foundation in theatrical performance and practice. This program guides students through foundational acting courses, technical theatre elements, and performance studies, culminating in advanced coursework and university-wide electives. Students will engage in a curriculum designed to develop their skills and understanding of the acting discipline within a broader theatrical context.

1 First Year - Fall Semester (15.5 credit hours)

ENG 101 or COM 110 General Education
THE 102 Elective
THE 103
THE 110
General Education course
General Education course

2 First Year - Spring Semester (15.5 credit hours)

ENG 101 or COM 110 General Education
THE 102 Elective
THE 104
THE 210
THE 130 or THE 160
General Education course

3 Second Year - Fall Semester (15.5 credit hours)

THE 102 Elective
THE 130 or THE 160
THE 256
THE 215
General Education course
General Education course

4 Second Year - Spring Semester (14.5 credit hours)

THE 102 Elective
THE 257
THE 224 or THE 372
THE 237
General Education course
General Education course

5 Third Year - Fall Semester (15 credit hours)

THE 240
THE 314
THE 376
General Education course
General Education course

6 Third Year - Spring Semester (15 credit hours)

THE 314
THE 377
General Education course
General Education course
B.S.-SMT or B.A. foreign language

7 Fourth Year - Fall Semester (13 credit hours)

THE 322
AMALI or University-wide elective
University-wide elective
University-wide elective
University-wide elective
University-wide elective

8 Fourth Year - Spring Semester (16 credit hours)

THE 314
Senior college level university-wide elective
Senior college level university-wide elective
University-wide elective
University-wide elective

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,132.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,132.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,132.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,132.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 96,528.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,000.00 - USD 1,600.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,000.00 - USD 4,560.00
Transport USD 600.00 - USD 1,200.00
Utilities & Bills USD 960.00 - USD 1,800.00
Estimated Total USD 4,560.00 - USD 7,560.00

Living cost estimates are based on Illinois Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

91%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Animation & Visual EffectsCriminal LawEmployment & Labor LawGaming & Interactive MediaInternational & Human Rights LawLive Events & ConcertsMuseums & Cultural HeritageMusic & Performing ArtsTalent & Artist ManagementTax & Financial Law

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Screen Actors Guild–American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA)

Why Study Theatre - Acting (B.A.) at Illinois State University

What makes this program stand out

May 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in May 2027

Very Fast Application response time

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

Life at Illinois State University 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 Theatre - Acting (B.A.) at Illinois State University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. On-campus jobs do not require a separate work permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English test requirements, scores must be as follows: Duolingo 105, TOEFL overall 79 with specific section scores, IELTS overall 6.5, and PTE overall 53. Ensure you meet these benchmarks for successful admission.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as actors, directors, theatrical producers, and stage managers.

What will I actually study in this course?

The Acting sequence at Illinois State University offers rigorous training and hands-on mentoring from professional faculty. Students will engage deeply in theatre arts, preparing for a career in the performing arts or other paths.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Theatre - Acting (B.A.) program at Illinois State University has intake months in May, June, and August. Be sure to apply before these periods to secure your spot.
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
 
Account
  • New student?

Search for universities & courses

ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️