Skip to main content
  • Admissions
  • Academics
  • Research
  • Illinois State University Home
  • Student Life
  • Athletics
  • About
Major

Theatre Studies

  1. Home
  2. Academics
  3. Majors
  4. Theatre Studies

Overview

The Theatre Studies major provides you with a broad-based, hands-on education in theatre within the context of a liberal arts degree. After completing a strong core of theatre courses, you have the flexibility to choose specialty courses based on your interests and career orientation in the following areas:

  • stage directing
  • playwriting
  • theatre history
  • creative drama and puppetry
  • integrated performance
  • theatre management
  • film studies

You’ll receive a well-rounded educational experience, from academic pursuit in history, criticism, dramaturgy, and theory, to creative participation in the performing arts.

  • Meet Our Faculty
  • Careers
  • Course Requirements (Catalog)
  • Sample Plans of Study

Point of Pride

Students are directors, playwrights, theatre managers, dramaturgs, actors, and critics. They propose, produce, and direct their own projects, collaborate in the annual Playwrights' Workshop, or assist with marketing and management of the School of Theatre, Dance, and Film main season. Students have many opportunities to interact and network with diverse visiting artists.

Why study Theatre Studies?

To make great art, you need a solid foundation in the history and theory of your discipline. The Theatre Studies major provides this foundation, after which you can pursue your academic and professional interests in a number of robust areas that encompass the creative and business sides of theatre. Theatre Studies faculty also mentor students interested in scholarly research, criticism, and graduate studies.

Schedule a Visit

Come see campus and meet with campus representatives either in person or virtually. Optional chances to meet with academic department, honors, and financial aid.

  • Explore Campus Visit Options
  • Explore Virtual Visit Options

How to Apply

Applying to Illinois State

Applying by our priority deadline is encouraged for best consideration for your academic program and for scholarships. Start your application today!

Program Requirements

The School of Theatre, Dance, and Film applies the same academic standards as those required for admission to Illinois State University. There is no separate SAT/ACT or GPA requirement for admission to the School of Theatre, Dance, and Film.

Any student accepted by Illinois State University may declare a major in Theatre Studies. No audition or interview is required.

Deadlines and Review Dates

Students are accepted into the Theatre Studies major contingent on admission by Illinois State University.

  • Freshmen: Apply Now
  • Transfer Students
  • Current Students

I Want to Learn More

Request Information Form

Loading form...

Contact Information

  • School of Theatre, Dance, and Film
  • (309) 438-8783
  • Centennial West 212
  • Wonsook Kim College of Fine Arts

Commonly Used Links

Illinois State

  • Milner Library
  • Technology Support Center
  • Maps and Directions
  • Search/A-Z
  • Academic Calendar
  • Safety and Security
  • Download ISU Mobile Apps

Students

  • My.IllinoisState.edu
  • Student Jobs
  • Catalog
  • Canvas
  • Undocumented Students, DACA, or Dreamers
  • Veterans and Military Services

Alumni

  • Alumni Association
  • Redbird Gear
  • Events
  • Magazine
  • Traditions

Faculty and Staff

  • Work at Illinois State
  • iPeople
  • Email and Office 365
  • Center for Integrated Professional Development
  • Shared Governance and Administration

© 2026 Illinois State University, Normal, IL USA | Contact Us

Privacy Statement | Cookie Statement | Identity Standards | Appropriate Use Policy | IBHE Online Complaint System | ISU Complaint Resolution | Accessibility | CARES Act Reporting

  • I. S. U. Facebook
  • I. S. U. Twitter
  • I. S. U. Instagram
  • I. S. U. Youtube
  • I. S. U. LinkedIn
  • I. S. U. TikTok
Closing menu Closing Menu
  • Close Menu
  • My
  • Contact
  • A to Z
  • Admissions
  • Academics
  • Research
  • Student Life
  • Athletics
  • About Us
  • Apply
  • Visit

Getting Started

  • Incoming Freshman
  • Transfer Students
  • Graduate Students
  • International Students
  • Out of State Students
  • Military Veterans
  • Returning to ISU
  • Homeschooled Students

Non-traditional

  • En Español
  • Undocumented Students
  • Visiting Students
  • Second Bachelor's Degree
  • Parents and Families
  • Academics Overview
  • Academic Support
  • Majors
  • Minors
  • Graduate Programs
  • Pre-Professional
  • Interdisciplinary Studies
  • Research Overview
  • Milner Library
  • Redbird Scholar
  • Student Life Overview
  • Housing
  • Dining
  • Student Organizations
  • Athletics Overview
  • GoRedbirds.com
  • About Us
  • Contact us
  • Administration
  • Our Community
  • Diversity and Inclusion
  • Traditions
  • Facility and Space Use
  • Learn How to Apply
  • What You Need Before You Apply
  • Deadlines
  • Fee and Waiver
  • Check Your Application Status
  • Disciplinary and Criminal Activity Disclosures
  • International Application Information
  • Schedule a Visit
  • Department Meetings
  • Driving Directions
  • Open House
  • Group Visits

University Resources

  • My Illinois State
  • Map
  • News
  • Events
  • Giving
Closing menu Closing Menu