Because theatre encompasses so many disciplines, it is an excellent way of enhancing a general education, encouraging artistic sensitivity, and teaching students to work in collaboration with fellow artists. The theatre curriculum at UI leads to a B.A., B.S., or B.F.A. degree and provides a broad base from which students may pursue a number of different career options. All students are required to complete a core of courses ensuring general competency in all areas of theatre. Those wishing to specialize in a particular aspect of theatre are able to do so through the use of electives. The Bachelor of Fine Arts degree is offered to those students who wish to embark on professional careers in theatre.
Requirements are stringent and include constant monitoring of the student's progress.
The student is an integral part of the department production process, fostering a close relationship with the theatre faculty and enabling the student to experience the kind of growth that comes through working with professional artists. In the Hartung Theatre, UI has one of the finest theatre facilities in the Northwest. The 419-seat, semithrust theatre is complemented by one of the best equipped shops, costume inventories, and lighting and sound systems in the region. Additionally, the Jean Collette Theatre, with 89 seats, is fully equipped and is a laboratory space in which student actors, directors, and technicians may experiment and develop their skills. Graduate study at UI emphasizes acting, directing, design, and technical theatre.