Theatre Training in Chicago

Applications are now open for fall 2027 admission!

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A fairy-tale scene from a Theatre School production: a man holds up a glowing blue flower beside a sleeping woman in a towering wig

The 2026-2027 SeasonTickets are on sale now!

Experience a season of childlike wonder at The Theatre School.

See the 2026-27 Season

From Our Stage to the World's

Since 1925, The Theatre School has trained world-class artists who hone their craft in rigorous practice and performance settings. Here, your growth takes center stage in each project, scene, and set. Build technical knowledge and strengthen your artistry by studying with mentors and working professionals who teach all aspects of theatre. Discover your voice in theatres located on campus, and throughout Chicago, and gain the confidence and skills to thrive.

Take Action Beyond the Script

Whether you light up the stage or provide support from behind the scenes, this is your space to shine.
Undergraduate Conservatory 
Explore BFA & BA Programs
Certificate Programs 
Explore Certificate Programs
On Stage 
See Our Productions
Creative Root 
Youth Theatre Camps & Classes
Student-Driven Programming 
Wrights of Spring Festival
Our Alumni 
Meet Our Alumni
200+
theatre companies and the film / TV industry in Chicago give you opportunities to build skills, make connections and try out new ideas.
30+
annual productions create opportunities for students to tackle new roles and strengthen their skills in multiple areas.

Your Creative Future Starts Here

Develop your craft in Chicago. Learn from mentors, create in world-class spaces and build connections that take you from DePaul’s campus to the city to the world.
A faculty mentor talks with a student in the costume shopConnection and Mentorship
Two actors on a sweeping, curved stage in a Theatre School productionChicago as a Classroom
The Theatre School building at dusk, its Healy Theatre lit above Racine AvenueWorld-Class Facilities

A Toolkit for a Creative Life

Your theatre education establishes a versatile foundation for your creativity. You’ll hone your artistry, learn to lead creative teams, and bring powerful stories to life.
Explore the BA in Theatre
Take Your Talent to New Places

<div class="ck-content"><p>Access professional opportunities in Chicago's celebrated theatres, or study in another country to apply your skills on the global stage.</p></div>

An actor stands center stage in red light before a towering wall of chairs
Gain Your First Production Credit

<div class="ck-content"> <p>Build your resume and your circle of artistic collaborators in our student organizations, which offer opportunities to design, direct or perform.</p> </div>

Four students talk on the Watts Theatre balcony.
Add Another Layer to Your Art

<div class="ck-content"> <p>Our minors in theatre studies and dance can complement your primary academic studies.</p> </div>

Students sit in a circle on a studio floor during a class discussion
IN THE LIMELIGHT

Stories from The Theatre School

Get to know the students, faculty and alumni who define our artistic atmosphere and whose work contributes to the advancement of theatre and the entertainment industry.
View More Stories
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Find the answers you need.

Conservatory

What conservatory programs are offered at The Theatre School?

The school offers two types of undergraduate degrees: 14 highly specialized conservatory-based Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) and a humanities-based Bachelor of Arts (BA). The BFA programs cover disciplines such as Acting, Costume Design, Directing, Lighting Design, Scenic Design, Stage Management and Theatre Technology.

About

What is the learning environment like at The Theatre School?

Students learn through a "learning by doing" philosophy within a focused conservatory setting. The program emphasizes hands-on experience, close mentorship from faculty who are working professionals, and collaboration across different disciplines within the theatre arts.


 

Chicago

How does the Chicago location benefit Theatre School students?

Being located in Chicago, a world-class theatre city, offers students unparalleled opportunities. They gain access to internships, professional connections and exposure to a diverse range of theatrical productions, significantly enhancing their training and career prospects.