Illinois State University United States

Theatre - Acting (B.S.)

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

Embark on your journey to professional acting with the Theatre - Acting (B.S.) at Illinois State University, a comprehensive undergraduate degree designed to cultivate courageous theatre artists. This program is ideal for students passionate about honing their craft through rigorous training and hands-on performance experience. You will delve into the essential elements of acting, character development, and stage presence, preparing you for a dynamic career in the performing arts or related fields. Illinois State University provides a nurturing yet challenging environment where your artistic voice can flourish.

This full-time, on-campus Bachelor of Science program spans four years, immersing you in a curriculum that balances foundational theatre studies with advanced acting techniques. You will engage in practical application through numerous performance opportunities, working alongside experienced faculty mentors. The curriculum, requiring a minimum of 120 credit hours including 40 senior-level hours, ensures you develop a well-rounded skill set. Upon graduation, you will be equipped with the confidence and expertise to pursue professional acting careers on stage, screen, or in diverse creative industries.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Bachelor of Science in Theatre - Acting program provides a comprehensive foundation in acting techniques and theatrical production. Across four years, students engage in compulsory acting courses, explore various theatrical disciplines, and fulfill general education requirements. The curriculum is designed to develop a well-rounded performer, culminating in advanced coursework and university-wide electives.

1 First Year - Fall Semester (15.5 credit hours)

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

2 First Year - Spring Semester (15.5 credit hours)

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

3 Second Year - Fall Semester (15.5 credit hours)

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

4 Second Year - Spring Semester (14.5 credit hours)

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

5 Third Year - Fall Semester (15 credit hours)

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

6 Third Year - Spring Semester (15 credit hours)

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

7 Fourth Year - Fall Semester (13 credit hours)

THE 322 Compulsory
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 Compulsory
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

Corporate & Commercial LawEvent Promotion & ManagementFamily & Civil LawFilm & Television ProductionGaming & Interactive MediaReal Estate & Property LawSports & AthleticsStreaming & Digital ContentTax & Financial LawTheme Parks & Leisure

Top Employers Hiring for this course

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

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

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 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.S.) 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. Work on campus doesn't require a separate permit, while off-campus work needs university approval after your first year.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To apply, you must meet specific English test requirements. Acceptable tests include Duolingo with a minimum comprehension score of 105, TOEFL with an overall score of 79, or IELTS with a minimum score of 6.5.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Career opportunities include Actor, Theatre Director, Stage Manager, Drama Teacher, and Casting Agent.

What will I actually study in this course?

The Acting sequence offers hands-on mentoring from professional acting faculty and numerous opportunities to hone your craft on stage. You'll engage in a challenging curriculum that prepares you for a life in theatre and beyond.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Theatre - Acting program at Illinois State University has multiple intake months: January, May, and August. You can start your journey in any of these months.
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