Theatre and Performance Studies, B.A.
The Theatre and Performance Studies (TAPS) program at Governors State University explores the power of storytelling through live performance, creative collaboration, and critical inquiry. Students study acting, directing, stagecraft, theatre history, and performance theory while developing communication, leadership, and analytical skills that extend beyond the stage. The program emphasizes hands-on experience and interdisciplinary dialogue. Students may participate in multiple productions each year through GovState’s Center for Performing Arts, gaining practical experience both onstage and behind the scenes. Specializations in Theory and Practice, Technical Production, and History and Dramaturgy allow students to tailor their studies toward creative, technical, or scholarly pathways. Graduates leave the program with a strong foundation in collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking—skills that support careers in theatre, media, arts administration, community engagement, and related fields, as well as graduate study in performance, arts leadership, or cultural studies.
Career Outcomes
Graduates of the Theatre and Performance Studies program pursue careers both within and beyond the performing arts. The program’s emphasis on storytelling, communication, collaboration, and creative problem-solving prepares students for roles in theatre production, media, arts administration, and community engagement.
- Actor or Performer – $46,960 (median)
- Producer or Director – $82,510 (median)
- Technical Director / Stage Manager – $60,000–$85,000
- Arts Administrator / Program Manager – $65,000–$90,000
- Public Relations Specialist – $67,440 (median)
- Drama Teacher (Secondary Education) – $62,000–$75,000
What You'll Study
Our academic catalog has detailed information about what you'll study, like courses, hours needed for completion, and other requirements.
How to Apply
You'll need certain documents and meet certain requirements in order to apply. Read about them on our admissions pages.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Governors State University offers a range of financial aid options to help undergraduate students make their degree more affordable, including federal, state, institutional, and private funding. To get started, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) using GovState's school code (009145). The FAFSA determines eligibility for grants, loans, work-study programs, and many scholarship opportunities.
Grants, including the Federal Pell Grant and the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), are awarded based on financial need and do not require repayment. Federal Direct Loans provide borrowed funds that must be repaid with interest after graduation.
Get Involved
Theatre and Performance Studies students are encouraged to participate in creative and professional opportunities that deepen their artistic development and expand their professional networks:
Professional & Academic Organizations
United States Institute for Theatre Technology (USITT) – Supports students interested in stagecraft, production design, and theatre technology.
Association for Theatre in Higher Education (ATHE) – Connects students with research, conferences, and professional development in theatre studies.
Stage Directors and Choreographers Society (SDC) – Provides insights and professional resources for directing and choreography careers.
Campus & Creative Engagement
Audition for or work behind the scenes in student theatre productions presented each year.
Collaborate with peers in acting, directing, and stagecraft projects.
Participate in guest artist workshops, theatre talks, and performance events at the Center for Performing Arts.
Assist with community theatre projects, arts outreach programs, or cultural festivals in the Chicago Southland region.
Highlighted Faculty
Contact Us
- Division of Arts and Letters
- College of Arts and Sciences, E2578
- Governors State University, 1 University Parkway, University Park, IL 60484
- 708.534.4101
- casinfo@govst.edu