Quick Facts

General Education Requirements: 37 hours
Core Courses: 28 hours
Specializations: 12 hours
Advanced Selectives: 9 hours
Electives: 34 hours
Total: 120 hours

Full Program Requirements

Why Study Theater and Performance?

Performance is not limited to theatrical production, the act is central to human nature as we move and function in the world. When you pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre and Performance Studies from Governors State, you will learn to bridge theory with practice and the verbal with the visual. Whether in theatrical presentations proper or in everyday acts of living, you will be equipped as a transformative agent of social, cultural, political, and personal change.

Choose from specializations in Theory and Practice, Technical Production, and History and Dramaturgy to focus your studies toward your intended career path.

Real-World Application

Theatre and Performance Studies (TAPS) students have the opportunity to participate in up to three student productions a year in GovState’s award-winning Center for Performing Arts, which also showcases nationally renowned performances. Each student's performance is carefully selected to engage the university community in interdisciplinary conversation and shows frequently sell out. 

Reach Your Career Goals

Job demand for actors, producers, and directors is expected to grow 12% over the next decade—faster than average—according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. With an undergraduate degree in Theatre and Performance Studies, your career opportunities are highly versatile, with knowledge and skills obtained lending to career paths in such fields as civic engagement, activism, nonprofit organization, public relations, art appreciation, or the pursuit of graduate study.

Specializations

  •  Theory and Practice 
    • A specialization in Theory and Practice will offer you an opportunity to explore the development of live performance from a hands-on perspective, from acting, directing, or writing. 
     
  • Technical Production
    • A specialization in Technical Production will prepare you to work behind the scenes on theatrical productions through courses in scenic, lighting, sound, costume design, and stage management.
     
  • History and Dramaturgy
    • A specialization in History and Dramaturgy will provide a strong academic foundation if you are interested in dramaturgy or literary management for a theatre company, or writing about theatre.
     

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<b>Full Program Requirements</b>

Full Program Requirements

You can find the complete guide to graduation requirements for your degree in our catalog.

<b>Program Faculty</b>

Program Faculty

Our favorable faculty-student ratios ensure lots of individual attention from our dedicated faculty members. Patrick Santoro leads our TAPS program.

<b>How to Apply</b>

How to Apply

If you are ready to take the next step, you can create an account and apply here, or simply request more information about the programs of your choice.

<b>Cost and Financial Aid</b>

Cost and Financial Aid

Our tuition estimator helps you calculate your cost of attendance. Our Financial Aid Office is dedicated to helping you find ways to fund your education.

<b>Scholarships</b>

Scholarships

At GovState, many scholarships are available and can make your education even more affordable!

<b>All Academic Programs</b>

All Academic Programs

We offer many options for undergraduate degrees and minors, and even several 5-year programs that lead to the completion of a Masters degree as well!

<b>Student Life</b>

Student Life

Student Clubs and Organizations at Governors State University enrich your educational experience, allowing you to gain and hone skills applicable to the classroom and life beyond. Click here to explore additional student resources.

<b>On-Campus Residence</b>

On-Campus Residence

Prairie Place, our on-campus housing, provides many options to accommodate the needs of our diverse student population.

<b>Campus Location</b>

Campus Location

If you have been wondering, "Where is Governors State University?" Learn more about our campus, and get directions to come visit us or take a virtual tour!