Overview

The Theatre Arts programme at Eastern Illinois University provides a dynamic environment where students immerse themselves in the creative and technical aspects of the performing arts. This degree is designed to foster artistic growth through a balanced combination of rigorous classroom instruction and practical production experience.

From the beginning of their studies, students are encouraged to participate in various roles both on stage and behind the scenes. The department maintains a philosophy of active engagement, ensuring that undergraduates are the primary focus of all theatrical activities. This hands-on approach allows individuals to master their craft while building a professional portfolio.

The curriculum is diverse, covering essential areas such as dramatic literature, theatre history, and technical stagecraft.

Why Theatre Arts at Eastern Illinois University?

The department is housed within the prestigious Doudna Fine Arts Center, featuring state-of-the-art facilities including a 290-seat proscenium theatre and a flexible Black Box space. These venues allow for a wide range of configurations, from traditional arena settings to experimental laboratory performances.

Students have access to professional-grade instructional spaces, such as fully equipped costume and scene shops, a dedicated makeup lab, and a computer-aided drafting studio. These resources ensure that those interested in design and technology work with the same tools used in the professional industry.

The university is also home to a diverse production season that includes contemporary dramas, classical plays, musicals, and children’s theatre. Unique opportunities like the improv comedy troupe and the Children’s Theatre Tour provide additional platforms for students to showcase their talents to the wider community.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 13037 per year
National fee: USD 10430 per year
Local fee: USD 10430 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum offers a broad foundation in all aspects of dramatic production and theory. Modules may include:

Theatre History
Dramatic Literature
Acting
Dialects
Stage Movement
Scene Study
Stagecraft
Costuming
Scenic Lighting

Careers with Theatre Arts

Graduates are prepared for a variety of roles within the global arts and entertainment industries. The comprehensive training provided ensures that students are equipped for professional careers as actors, directors, stage managers, or technicians. Many alumni also find success in education, arts administration, and community outreach programmes.

The programme's focus on practical skills and professional standards makes graduates highly competitive in the job market. By participating in numerous productions throughout their degree, students leave with the experience necessary to work in professional theatre companies, film studios, and touring productions.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Stage Movement

Performance Lab

Costuming Lab

Scenic Lab

Stage Makeup

Stage Management Lab

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-13 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-11-01 00:00:00 , International
Starting 2027-08-19 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-05-15 00:00:00 , International

Language

English

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Charleston, United States

Disciplines

Communication Studies Drama View 1325 other Bachelors in Drama in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

2.5

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

105

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Other requirements

General requirements

Official records (transcripts or mark sheets) beginning with secondary school. A minimum grade point average of a 2.5 on a 4.0 scale is required. All transcripts become property of this University.

English Language Proficiency Requirement

A completed International Student Financial Affidavit Form and a bank statement (submitted online via MyEIU account), documenting sufficient funding for the intended program of study.

A passport copy is required.

Non-refundable application fee of $30.00 U.S. in the form of a check, certified check or money order made payable to Eastern Illinois University, application fee is valid for one year.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

13037 USD / year

≈ 13037 USD / year
Out-of-State

10430 USD / year

≈ 10430 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

10430 USD / year

≈ 10430 USD / year

Living costs

Charleston

United States

1100 - 1500 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Theatre Arts.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Charleston

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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