Chicago State University

Chicago State University’s Theatre program is part of the Department of Communications, Media Arts & Theatre (CMAT), offering a Bachelor of Arts degree with a concentration in theatre. This interdisciplinary program equips students with a solid liberal-arts foundation alongside practical experience in acting, directing, and production. The CMAT department supports theatre education through rigorous coursework in introductions to theatre, dramaturgy, acting, and African-American theatre, positioning graduates for careers in performance, direction, writing, and media-related theatre fields.

Beginning with foundational courses such as Introduction to Theatre, Acting I, and Dramaturgy, students also engage in CMAT practicum experiences through CSU Theatre, CSU-TV, and WCSU Radio. These practical courses allow students to gain first-hand experience onstage, behind the scenes, and in media production. Upper-level course options and internships further deepen their training, ensuring graduates leave with both creative and technical competencies.

A notable strength of the program is its emphasis on real-world experience. Through internships with industry partners—including Cinespace Studios, WTTW, NBC Universal, BET, and others—students build professional connections and portfolios while still in school. Additionally, a recent $1.6 million grant provided new technology and equipment to enhance theatre, film, radio, and television production across CMAT, making CSU one of the most technologically advanced programs of its kind in the Midwest.

The program also encourages scholarly and creative work through opportunities such as Senior Thesis projects and honors coursework for high-performing juniors and seniors. Students academically consolidate their theatre knowledge with a capstone thesis while being supported by faculty mentorship. This blend of theoretical and applied training cultivates critical thinking, creative expression, and professional readiness.

Finally, CSU theatre students benefit from award-winning faculty—such as Christine Houston, Kamesha Khan, Alvin Daniels, and Christine List—who bring real-world expertise into the classroom. Graduates enter careers in theatre, media, radio, and film, or continue to graduate programs at prestigious institutions like USC School of Cinema Arts or the American Film Institute.

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