A LegendaryTraining Groundfor Theatre Artists
Make Theatre Work
Whether you're pursuing a degree, deepening your expertise, or exploring a new passion, The Theatre School has a place for you.
Three Paths, One Conservatory
Pursue your artistry your way — through a degree, a certificate, or a minor.
A Conservatory Experience
<div class="ck-content"><p>Step into a show or take a backstage tour to experience our lively community—where ideas turn into action, talents grow and every story matters. Together, we spark new conversations and contribute to a strong tradition of service and fresh thinking. Start your story with us today.</p></div>
450
students create a vibrant, collaborative conservatory. Our classes are large enough for dynamic energy and diverse perspectives, but personal enough for you to stand out and truly grow.
Keep Up With the Action
Follow student news, shows and standout talent
<div class="ck-content"><p>Check in for school highlights and updates. Whether a student takes the stage at a major venue or our alumni shine in a new production, you'll find the details here. Rediscover timeless theatre and share in the pride of our growing community.</p></div>
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Martine Kei Green-Rogers, PhD
Dean, The Theatre School
HOME ADVANTAGE
The Theatre City
<div class="ck-content"><p>Chicago can feel like a thousand cities in one—each with its own story, stage and creative energy. From storefront theatres to major playhouses, you’ll find endless opportunities to learn, perform, intern, and connect in one of the world’s most dynamic arts communities.</p></div>
700Million
dollars invested annually to fuel Chicago’s film and TV production by providing students access to film sets, studios and industry professionals.
Internships and Global Study
As you get involved in Chicago’s creative scene or collaborate across continents, you’ll join a worldwide dialogue and gain new perspectives and skills.
Michael Merritt Awards
DePaul Theatre School students and faculty are regularly honored at the Michael Merritt Awards, which celebrate excellence in design, collaboration and innovation in the Chicago theatre community.
Graduate Showcase
This is an event where your artistic development is on display for industry leaders and a public that’s passionate about artistic progress.
Alumni Success
From Broadway to local stages, our alumni are catalysts for artistic and social progress. When you graduate, you’ll become part of a community that’s committed to excellence.
200+
theatre companies in Chicago’s vibrant theatre scene that offer opportunities for artistic growth and professional development.
From Creative Spark to Career Opportunities
<div class="ck-content"><p>Receive personal mentorship, study alongside working professionals and have access to opportunities in over 30 productions a year. This is where your passion becomes a sustainable, skillful ticket into the professional theatre world.</p></div>
Undergraduate Conservatory
As a Theatre School student, can I have a minor?
Yes, it is very possible for a student to pursue a BFA program in The Theatre School and minor in something else.
Conservatory
What defines the conservatory training approach at The Theatre School?
Conservatory training at The Theatre School involves intensive, focused and sequential study within a specific theatre discipline (like Acting or Design). It emphasizes rigorous practical application, mentorship from professional faculty and a high degree of collaboration among students.
Undergraduate Conservatory
What undergraduate Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) programs are offered?
The school offers comprehensive BFA programs designed for deep specialization. These include Acting, Comedy Arts, Costume Design, Costume Technology, Dramaturgy/Criticism, Lighting Design, Projection Design, Scenic Design, Sound Design, Stage Management, Theatre Arts, Theatre Management, Wig and Makeup Design and Theatre Technology.