Career Opportunities

A degree in theatre prepares you for success in more careers than you might at first imagine. Of course, we have many ISU students who find work as actors on stage, on television, and in film. But performing is just one of many jobs open to those with theatre degrees. In fact, people with theatre degrees are found in all walks of life.

Opportunities in Theatre and Entertainment

The entertainment industry offers many exciting opportunities. Professionals work in a variety of theatre venues, including regional, summer stock, and children's theatre, as well as with touring companies. They also work on television, in film, in theme parks, at festivals, in museums, with digital media companies, with public relations firms, and in schools.

A theatre degree might lead to any number of different occupations in arts and entertainment. Illinios State University graduates work as: actors, dancers, improvisational comedians, voice-over artists, directors, choreographers, vocal coaches, fight choreographers, dramaturges, literary agents, stage managers, company managers, set designers, sound designers, costume designers, lighting designers, props artisans, scenic designers, teachers, sound engineers, wardrobe dressers, make-up artists, electricians, carpenters, recording engineers, technical directors, production managers, playwrights, producers, casting directors, box office managers, theatrical press agents, business managers, directors of fund-raising, directors of educational activites, and artistic directors.

While competition is stiff, those who work hard to develop their talents and who stay open to all the possibilities around them can find satisfying, long-term careers in the area of arts and entertainment.

For another look at careers in theatre, visit our alumni page.

Opportunities Outside Theatre

Theatre majors also find great success when they branch out into other industries. You'll find lawyers, stock brokers, entrepreneurs, fashion merchandisers, travel agents, ministers, convention directors, politicians, journalists, community affairs liaisons, marketing managers, graphic designers, sales reps, and any number of other professionals with theatre degrees. Theatre cultivates self-discipline, creativity, and an ability to work with others - skills that all employers love.

Transferable Skills

There are many important life skills that you'll learn in theatre. Studying and working in theatre cultivates abilities that transfer well to any career choice. These skills include:

the ability to meet deadllines
creative and constructive problem-solving abilities
a strong work ethic
the ability to work collaboratively with others
the ability to prioritize and manage time wisely
strong organizational skills
the ability to carry out instructions
the ability to adapt to change
the ability communicate effectively, orally and in writing
leadership skills
the ability to "think on your feet"
creativity
the willingness to make decisions and to accept responsibility for those decisions
an awareness and acceptance of cultural and personal differences
the ability to work within a budget

Career Resources for Theatre Majors

Career Opportunities in Theater and the Performing Arts, by Shelly Field (1999)
Great Jobs for Theatre Majors, by Jan Goldberg (1998)
Careers in Focus: Arts and Entertainment (1999)
Careers in Communications and Entertainment, by Leonard Mogel (2000)
Opportunities in Acting Careers, by Dick Moore (1999)
Occupational Outlook Handbook, US Department of Labor (Current)
Regional Theatre Directory, edited by Jill Charles (1998)