Why study arts at Illinois State University?
Turn your passion for the arts into a successful career. Let your creative soul come alive at Illinois State's College of Fine Arts. You can explore fine arts degrees specializing in performing arts, music, arts technology, theatre and dance.
- Craft your canvas or produce a great hit in Illinois State's Wonsook Kim College of Fine Arts' 17 instrument studios and 10 art studios.
- You can use digital and interactive media to create audio and visual art in the arts technology degree program.
- Act out the best of the bard (William Shakespeare) in the nationally known Shakespeare festival where you can work with professional actors for 30+ performances.
- Join the ranks of star-studded Illinois State alumni like award-winning actors John Malkovich, Jane Lynch and Laurie Metcalf; artists Wonsook Kim and Nicholas Africano; and singers Michelle Williams and Suzy Bogguss.
Program choices
Find out more about your course options by selecting a course level.
- English course
- International Year One
- Undergraduate Degree (Direct Entry)
- Graduate Pathway
- Graduate Degree (Direct Entry)
English course
Leads to: University preparation program or degree
Typical entry requirements: High school diploma required
Length of course: From 1 Semester
- Improve your languages skills while adapting to the US culture.
- Prepares your for university study in the US.
International Year One
Leads to: Undergraduate degree
Typical entry requirements: From IELTS 5.0, plus high school diploma, GPA 2.25 out of 4.0
Length of course: From 1 Semester
- Begin earning credits toward your degree, even if you don't meet the requirements for direct entry.
- Receive additional support to successfully complete your first semester, year, or two years of your bachelor's program.
- Graduate in the same amount of time as direct entry students.
Undergraduate Degree (Direct Entry)
Typical entry requirements: From IELTS 6.5, plus high school diploma, GPA 3.0 out of 4.0
Length of course: 4 years
- Enter the university as a degree-seeking student who meet the academic and English language requirements for their degree program.
Graduate Pathway
Leads to: Master's degree
Typical entry requirements: From IELTS 5.5, plus undergraduate degree, 2.5 GPA
Length of course: 2 semesters
- Progress to your Master's degree with credits.
- Build the academic foundation and language skills needed for master's-level study, as well as prepare for your GRE/GMAT tests, if required.
- Receive the highest level of support with dedicated academic advisors throughout your program.
Graduate Degree (Direct Entry)
Typical entry requirements: From IELTS 6.5, plus undergraduate degree, GPA 3.0 out of 4.0
Length of course: 2 years
- Enter the university as a degree-seeking student who meet the academic and English language requirements for their degree program.