Undergraduate Conservatory
A conservatory education for the next generation of theatre leaders. Turn your passion into a profession with thorough training and deep industry affiliations
Theatre for the Entertainment Era
<div class="ck-content"><p>The Theatre School’s undergraduate program is a highly specialized conservatory that offers fifteen Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) majors across three departments: Design/Technology, Performance and Theatre Studies. Each major is a four-year professional training program designed to open doors in film and television, concerts and festivals, events and immersive experiences, fashion and cosplay, circuses and theme parks, exhibitions and museums, clubs and attractions and more.</p></div>
Theatre Studies
<div class="ck-content"><p>Our conservatory immerses you in the art and discipline of theatre. Through focused degrees and hands-on practice, you’ll develop the creative, analytical and leadership skills that set true professionals apart.</p></div>
Design and Technology
<div class="ck-content"><p>Bring productions to life through artistry, design and innovation. Gain hands-on experience in our productions while developing your skills in a variety of technical and creative roles.</p></div>
Performance
<div class="ck-content"><p>Our actor-centered training will prepare you for a life in the theatre. You’ll have opportunities to perform in a wide variety of productions and receive mentorship from our faculty and working artists.</p></div>
Our Story, Cast and Crew
Take a look at standout moments from our stage. Many of our graduates left their mark as actors, designers and creators in these shows. Their shared passion and collaboration continue to shape The Theatre School of today.
200+
theatre companies in Chicago’s vibrant theatre scene that offer opportunities for artistic growth and professional development.
700Million
dollars invested annually to fuel Chicago’s film and TV production by providing students access to film sets, studios and industry professionals.
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Michelle Lopez-Rios
Chair of Performance, Head of Voice and Speech
NEWS AND STORIES
The Theatre School
Recent news about our students, faculty and productions
<div class="ck-content"><p>Discover what’s new with The School of Theatre: campus news, standout student moments and community happenings are all here. This is the place to catch updates about current student life.</p></div>
Undergraduate Conservatory
What is the degree awarded for undergraduate conservatory programs?
The undergraduate conservatory programs at The Theatre School lead to a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degree. This intensive, pre-professional degree requires deep specialization within a chosen discipline, preparing students for direct entry into the theatre profession upon graduation.
Undergraduate Conservatory
What specific BFA majors are offered in the undergraduate conservatory?
The school offers a wide array of BFA majors: Acting, Comedy Arts, Costume Design, Costume Technology, Dramaturgy/Criticism, Lighting Design, Projection Design, Scenic Design, Sound Design, Stage Management and Theatre Technology, allowing for focused, in-depth training.
Undergraduate Conservatory
What is the duration of the undergraduate BFA programs?
The BFA programs are typically structured as rigorous, full-time, four-year degree programs. The sequential curriculum requires students to build skills and take on increasing responsibility in both coursework and production assignments throughout their time at the school.