School of Theatre and DanceActing Bachelor's Degree
- BA
- BFA
Want to act on stage and screen? Launch your career at Columbia College Chicago. Our programs offer hands-on experience in theatre, film, and TV. Develop a strong foundation, explore diverse acting styles (physical theatre, stage combat), and learn on-camera techniques. Collaborate on innovative work, attend career prep workshops, and choose the program that fits you (rigorous BFA or flexible BA with exploration options). Both programs offer equal performance opportunities. Get ready to step into the spotlight.
Examples of Acting Careers
The Student Experience
Build your acting resume and career network at Columbia. with over 50 productions annually, professional soundstages for on-camera experience, and state-of-the-art facilities. Gain real-world experience through internships and hone your craft alongside industry professionals.
With 40+ plays, musicals, and film productions a year, you'll have plenty of chances to land your dream role or work behind the scenes.
Collaborate with Columbia's film program and perform in student-directed films on a professional soundstage. Talk about resume gold.
With four professional stages, fully stocked scene and costume department, and a makeup and prosthetics lab, we offer aspiring performers and designers the perfect environment to hone their craft and launch successful careers.
Columbia connects you with top Chicago theaters for real-world experience. You can even spend a semester in Los Angeles or at Chicago’s world-famous Second City. Plus, our faculty's industry connections unlock even more possibilities.
Career Readiness
As an Acting Major, you’ll immerse yourself in Chicago’s professional theatre scene, collaborate with film and music students, and study on location in London or Los Angeles. This will leave you well-prepared to take the stage as a working actor.
Collaborate with real clients in the Creative Agency Practicum, applying your knowledge to develop creative solutions and enhance your portfolio. Participate in workshops focusing on project management, negotiation strategies, and client management to ensure you graduate with the essential skills needed for success.
Engage with industry leaders and alumni through workshops and events, building connections that can lead to internships and job placements. See alumni working on stage in Chicago, New York, and beyond.
Alumni Spotlight
Joseph Sikora
Actor from "Ozark" and "Power Book IV: Force"
of 2023 grads are employed, enrolled in continued education, or pursuing their creative practice.