Theatre - Acting
The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre - Acting provides students with comprehensive training in performance, stagecraft, and the theoretical foundations of theatre. The program emphasizes acting techniques, voice, movement, and character development, preparing students to perform across diverse theatrical styles and media. Students develop performance skills and creative expertise, learning to embody characters, interpret scripts, and collaborate effectively in ensemble productions. Coursework combines practical training, workshops, and theoretical study, equipping learners with the artistic and professional skills needed to thrive in stage, film, and media performance.
Over four years, students engage in courses covering acting methods, theatre history, voice and speech, movement, and improvisation. Practical experiences such as stage productions, film projects, and workshops provide hands-on opportunities to apply performance techniques and develop professional portfolios. Students also explore directing, dramaturgy, and collaborative creative processes, preparing them for careers in performance, education, and production. By the final year, graduates demonstrate artistic proficiency and professional readiness, positioning them for work in theatre, film, media, or advanced studies in performing arts.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Theatre - Acting
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Fine Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, United States
- Field of Study: Liberal Arts
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 - Foundations in Acting and Theatre
• Introduction to Acting Techniques
• Voice and Speech Fundamentals
• Theatre History and Literature
• Academic Writing and Research Methods
Year 2 - Core Performance Skills
• Movement and Stagecraft
• Improvisation and Character Development
• Scene Study and Ensemble Work
• Elective Modules in Theatre or Performance Studies
Year 3 - Advanced Acting and Professional Practice
• Advanced Acting Techniques
• On-Camera Performance
• Directing and Dramaturgy
• Collaborative Productions and Workshops
Year 4 - Capstone and Professional Integration
• Independent Performance Project or Showcase
• Internship in Theatre, Film, or Media
• Seminar in Contemporary Theatre Practices
• Advanced Topics in Acting and Performance
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in theatre, film, television, performance, and arts education. Career paths include positions as stage actors, film performers, voice actors, theatre educators, and creative consultants, where professionals engage in performance, teaching, or production roles. Graduates may also work in directing, dramaturgy, or pursue advanced studies in acting, performance studies, or theatre management. The program equips learners with performance skills, artistic expertise, and professional competence, enabling them to thrive in dynamic and competitive creative industries.
Why Choose This Program
This program is ideal for students passionate about acting, theatre, and performance, seeking rigorous training in both practical and theoretical aspects of the craft. Learners develop performance skills, artistic proficiency, critical thinking, and professional competence, enabling them to embody diverse roles, collaborate effectively, and adapt to various performance settings. The four year curriculum combines acting techniques, voice and movement training, stage experience, and professional development opportunities, providing a holistic foundation for creative careers. By integrating intensive practical training with theoretical study and collaborative projects, the program prepares graduates to pursue careers in theatre, film, television, or continue with advanced studies in performing arts.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the graduate admissions office at:
Phone: 217-333-0035
Email: grad@illinois.edu
Address: The Graduate College, 507 East Green Street, Suite 101, MC-434, Champaign, IL 61820, United States
