Elmhurst University
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Program Characteristics
No Prescreen
Scholarship Audition
No Interview
In-Person Only
University App Required
Program Highlights
TEACHER PREPARATION
•Prepares students for secondary school positions as drama and theatre arts teachers
•Balances theory and practical application across acting, directing, and design
•Provides insights into both curricular and extracurricular theatre programs
•Applied Theatre courses build real-world skills for classroom and stage
LICENSURE
•Meets professional education requirements for Illinois State Board of Education
•Includes student teaching placement and professional portfolio components
•Must pass Drama Theater Arts #210 Content Test prior to student teaching
CHICAGO-AREA ADVANTAGE
•Campus located 30 minutes from Chicago with access to world-class professional theatre
•Internship opportunities at venues like Chicago Shakespeare Theatre and First Folio Productions
NOTABLE ALUMNI
•Jessica Vaillancourt '07 — Illinois Outstanding Young Teacher of the Year (theatre design, lighting & stage management); revived Elgin High School's performing arts program
•David Rasche '66 — actor known for Sledge Hammer!, Succession (Karl), Veep, and Burn After Reading
Key Info
University AppApplication
Apply atCommon App
Apply atSchool Website
Deadlines
Early ActionNov 15, 2025
Rolling
Audition Requirements
Optional audition for scholarship consideration — not required for program admission.
Good to Know
APPLICATION PROCESS
•Apply to Elmhurst University via Common App — no application fee
LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS
•Must complete professional education requirements established by Department of Education
•Content area tests, student teaching, and professional portfolio required for licensure
•Education licensure program applications due June 15
What's The Process
ADMISSION PROCESS
•No performance audition required for admission
•Admitted through university application
•Audition available for scholarship consideration
Scholarship Info
THEATRE TALENT SCHOLARSHIP
•Up to $2,000 annually
•Based on audition performance
•Must major or minor in musical theatre, theatre, or theatre arts education
•Renewable with good academic standing and full-time enrollment
Program info updated 2 days ago
Academic School Information
3.59
Avg GPA (W)
76%
Admit Rate
64%
Grad Rate
2,954
Enrollment
$61,462
Earnings
10yr after
Tuition & Fees
$41,628
before aid
Average Annual Cost
$21,063
after typical aid
Average annual cost is often lower than tuition because it accounts for grants and scholarships most students receive. It includes tuition, room & board, books, and supplies.
Annual Cost by Family Income
Family Income $0 - $30k$14,641
Family Income $30k - $48k$15,866
Family Income $48k - $75k$20,115
Family Income $75k - $110k$24,551
Family Income $110k+$28,795
