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What colleges are best fit for performing arts majors?
What colleges, if any, are great and noncompetitive?
Is it more challenging to get into performing arts colleges or regular colleges with performing arts programs?
What regular colleges have great performing arts programs?
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4 answers
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hi Tyleyl,
These are great questions! Choosing the right college for performing arts depends on your goals, whether you want a dedicated performing arts school or a broader college experience with a strong arts program. Let’s break it down:
1. Colleges Best for Performing Arts Majors
Top Performing Arts Schools:
These schools are known for their focus on performing arts and often have competitive admissions:
- Juilliard School (New York, NY)
- Berklee College of Music (Boston, MA)
- NYU Tisch School of the Arts (New York, NY)
- California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) (Valencia, CA)
- Carnegie Mellon University (Pittsburgh, PA)
- University of North Carolina School of the Arts (UNCSA) (Winston-Salem, NC)
Less Competitive but Reputable Performing Arts Schools:
- Columbia College Chicago
- The New School’s College of Performing Arts (NYC)
- Point Park University (Pittsburgh, PA)
- AMDA (American Musical and Dramatic Academy) (NYC and LA campuses)
- University of the Arts (Philadelphia, PA)
2. Colleges with Strong Performing Arts Programs (Broader Options)
These schools are regular colleges with excellent performing arts programs, offering a mix of arts and other academics:
- University of Michigan (Ann Arbor, MI)
- Northwestern University (Evanston, IL)
- UCLA (Los Angeles, CA)
- Indiana University Bloomington
- University of Southern California (USC)
- Emerson College (Boston, MA)
3. Performing Arts Colleges vs. Regular Colleges
- Performing Arts Colleges:
- Focused entirely on the arts, providing intensive, hands-on training.
- Typically more competitive because of auditions or portfolio requirements.
- Great if you’re 100% committed to a career in performing arts.
- Regular Colleges with Arts Programs:
- Offer arts training while providing a broader education and more flexibility in your studies.
- May have less competitive admissions, especially for general admissions (though audition-based programs can still be tough).
- Ideal if you want the option to explore other academic interests.
4. Noncompetitive Schools with Strong Performing Arts Programs
- SUNY Purchase College (State University of New York)
- University of Hartford – Hartt School
- Ohio University (Athens, OH)
- University of Kansas (Lawrence, KS)
- University of Central Florida (UCF)
Next Steps for You
1. Research Requirements: Some programs require auditions, while others may admit students based on general applications.
2. Prepare Auditions/Portfolios: If you aim for a competitive program, start preparing your audition or portfolio early.
3. Consider Financial Aid: Look into scholarships or programs at state schools with strong arts departments.
4. Visit Campuses: If possible, visit schools or attend virtual tours to get a feel for the community and resources.
Whether you go for a specialized school or a broader college, there are many paths to success in performing arts. Follow your passion and explore where you feel most supported!
Best wishes!
These are great questions! Choosing the right college for performing arts depends on your goals, whether you want a dedicated performing arts school or a broader college experience with a strong arts program. Let’s break it down:
1. Colleges Best for Performing Arts Majors
Top Performing Arts Schools:
These schools are known for their focus on performing arts and often have competitive admissions:
- Juilliard School (New York, NY)
- Berklee College of Music (Boston, MA)
- NYU Tisch School of the Arts (New York, NY)
- California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) (Valencia, CA)
- Carnegie Mellon University (Pittsburgh, PA)
- University of North Carolina School of the Arts (UNCSA) (Winston-Salem, NC)
Less Competitive but Reputable Performing Arts Schools:
- Columbia College Chicago
- The New School’s College of Performing Arts (NYC)
- Point Park University (Pittsburgh, PA)
- AMDA (American Musical and Dramatic Academy) (NYC and LA campuses)
- University of the Arts (Philadelphia, PA)
2. Colleges with Strong Performing Arts Programs (Broader Options)
These schools are regular colleges with excellent performing arts programs, offering a mix of arts and other academics:
- University of Michigan (Ann Arbor, MI)
- Northwestern University (Evanston, IL)
- UCLA (Los Angeles, CA)
- Indiana University Bloomington
- University of Southern California (USC)
- Emerson College (Boston, MA)
3. Performing Arts Colleges vs. Regular Colleges
- Performing Arts Colleges:
- Focused entirely on the arts, providing intensive, hands-on training.
- Typically more competitive because of auditions or portfolio requirements.
- Great if you’re 100% committed to a career in performing arts.
- Regular Colleges with Arts Programs:
- Offer arts training while providing a broader education and more flexibility in your studies.
- May have less competitive admissions, especially for general admissions (though audition-based programs can still be tough).
- Ideal if you want the option to explore other academic interests.
4. Noncompetitive Schools with Strong Performing Arts Programs
- SUNY Purchase College (State University of New York)
- University of Hartford – Hartt School
- Ohio University (Athens, OH)
- University of Kansas (Lawrence, KS)
- University of Central Florida (UCF)
Next Steps for You
1. Research Requirements: Some programs require auditions, while others may admit students based on general applications.
2. Prepare Auditions/Portfolios: If you aim for a competitive program, start preparing your audition or portfolio early.
3. Consider Financial Aid: Look into scholarships or programs at state schools with strong arts departments.
4. Visit Campuses: If possible, visit schools or attend virtual tours to get a feel for the community and resources.
Whether you go for a specialized school or a broader college, there are many paths to success in performing arts. Follow your passion and explore where you feel most supported!
Best wishes!
Updated
Saint’s Answer
Hey Tyleyl!
Great question. If you’re into performing arts, schools like Juilliard, Berklee, and NYU Tisch are some of the best out there if you’re up for competitive programs. But if you want something less intense, Columbia College Chicago and Cal State Fullerton are really solid choices too.
University of the Arts in Philly was a fantastic school, but it’s sadly closed now. For regular colleges with strong performing arts programs, Indiana University or UT Austin are great options—they’re a bit less intense with the application process but still offer awesome opportunities.
What kind of performing arts are you into? Music, acting, dance? That’ll help narrow it down and find the best fit for you.
Good luck!
Saint
Great question. If you’re into performing arts, schools like Juilliard, Berklee, and NYU Tisch are some of the best out there if you’re up for competitive programs. But if you want something less intense, Columbia College Chicago and Cal State Fullerton are really solid choices too.
University of the Arts in Philly was a fantastic school, but it’s sadly closed now. For regular colleges with strong performing arts programs, Indiana University or UT Austin are great options—they’re a bit less intense with the application process but still offer awesome opportunities.
What kind of performing arts are you into? Music, acting, dance? That’ll help narrow it down and find the best fit for you.
Good luck!
Saint
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Tyleyl !
You've come to the right place !
I would be happy to give you all the advice you may need. I did the academic route to becoming an actress at a State University in California whose Theatre Department Is accredited by the National Association of Schools Of Theatre. I have been in acting many years and did have an above par, excellent experience being a Theatre student at California State University, Sacramento. I have a Bachelors Degree in Theatre, but always took community based training as well.
You are correct. You do not need to go to a famous named college or one that requires auditions to be accepted into their Theatre Department. I want to assure you, any college that offers Theatre will be good, have professors that are experienced and credentialed and provide you with the facilities and experiences you'll need. I left a link below for you of some colleges in Maryland that offer a Theatre Major so you can explore those. Even consider starting at a community college and transferring to a university to save money. It's all good ! Read the requirements for admissions to each college. Many do not require auditions. I understand you - you want to start right away without the possibility of delay in case you don't pass the audition. Go for the ones without auditions - you will be seen during acting class doing your first monologue and scene and they'll work with you from that.
Do not major in Musical Theatre. It's a weak degree, it's not a career rather it's a genre and you do not need a college degree in Musical Theatre. Trust me that you will have opportunities to take credit courses in singing and dancing. You'll learn most of it by being in musicals. No need for this major - stick with a straight Theatre Degree. it can make a world of difference with acting and otherwise.
When exploring colleges, you can check out which ones have their theatre department accredited by the National Association of Schools if Theatre. I left their link for you below. The accreditation validates that the theatre departments provide the highest standard of education and training for their students. They are also state of the art equipped.
I do hope you return with more questions and I wish you all the best in choosing a college that is perfect for you in all ways !
LIST OF COLLEGES IN MARYLAND THAT OFFER A THEATRE MAJOR https://www.niche.com/colleges/search/best-colleges-for-theater/s/maryland/
THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF SCHOOLS OF THEATRE TO CHECK COLLEGE THEATRE DEPARTMENTS FOR ACCREDITATION https://nast.arts-accredit.org/
You've come to the right place !
I would be happy to give you all the advice you may need. I did the academic route to becoming an actress at a State University in California whose Theatre Department Is accredited by the National Association of Schools Of Theatre. I have been in acting many years and did have an above par, excellent experience being a Theatre student at California State University, Sacramento. I have a Bachelors Degree in Theatre, but always took community based training as well.
You are correct. You do not need to go to a famous named college or one that requires auditions to be accepted into their Theatre Department. I want to assure you, any college that offers Theatre will be good, have professors that are experienced and credentialed and provide you with the facilities and experiences you'll need. I left a link below for you of some colleges in Maryland that offer a Theatre Major so you can explore those. Even consider starting at a community college and transferring to a university to save money. It's all good ! Read the requirements for admissions to each college. Many do not require auditions. I understand you - you want to start right away without the possibility of delay in case you don't pass the audition. Go for the ones without auditions - you will be seen during acting class doing your first monologue and scene and they'll work with you from that.
Do not major in Musical Theatre. It's a weak degree, it's not a career rather it's a genre and you do not need a college degree in Musical Theatre. Trust me that you will have opportunities to take credit courses in singing and dancing. You'll learn most of it by being in musicals. No need for this major - stick with a straight Theatre Degree. it can make a world of difference with acting and otherwise.
When exploring colleges, you can check out which ones have their theatre department accredited by the National Association of Schools if Theatre. I left their link for you below. The accreditation validates that the theatre departments provide the highest standard of education and training for their students. They are also state of the art equipped.
I do hope you return with more questions and I wish you all the best in choosing a college that is perfect for you in all ways !
Michelle recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Alright, Tyleyl, let’s get into the glamorous, glittery world of performing arts colleges — where you can dance, sing, act, and maybe even do all of that at the same time (because why not?). If you're wondering about non-competitive options, and whether it’s harder to get into a performing arts college than a regular college with a performing arts program, buckle up. We’re going on a fun, dramatic ride through the world of auditions, glittery costumes, and "I can totally do this" moments.
1. What Makes a Performing Arts College "Great"?
Why?
First of all, let’s talk about what makes a performing arts college shine. It’s not just about having a stage or a good sound system — oh no, we’re talking about a place where your passion, your creativity, and your weird dance moves are embraced. A great performing arts college will have:
Top-notch faculty who are often professionals themselves. It’s like learning from the person who taught Beyoncé to shake it. 🐝
A robust network because let’s face it, you want to know the right people in the industry (and maybe sneak into a celebrity party someday).
Outstanding facilities, including rehearsal spaces, theaters, and sound stages — because nothing says "I'm a pro" like performing in an actual theater with the best acoustics.
---
2. Non-Competitive Performing Arts Colleges: Where "Laid-Back" Meets "Still Really Good"
Why?
Some performing arts schools are ultra-competitive — like American Idol but with fewer tears. But there are definitely schools that offer great programs without feeling like an audition for the Hunger Games. These are schools where you can still pursue your craft, but with a little less drama (except on stage, of course).
Top Non-Competitive Options:
University of Arizona: Offers a great performance program, but it's a little less cutthroat than the big-name schools. You can focus on your craft without feeling like you're auditioning every single day.
University of Southern California (USC): Known for its awesome performing arts programs, it’s competitive but also offers a relaxed atmosphere for the creative soul. They know you're an artist, not just a GPA number.
University of Miami: A good mix of a laid-back vibe with top-tier arts programs. If you like performing while sipping on some fresh coconut water, this could be your spot.
Fun Tip: Non-competitive doesn’t mean "no standards"—it just means less pressure to be a walking Broadway show every time you step on stage. So, think of it like being the cool kid who can sing and still has time to watch Netflix. 🎭📺
---
3. Is It More Challenging to Get Into Performing Arts Colleges?
Why?
Ah, the big question — is it harder to get into a performing arts college than a regular college with a performing arts program? Well, here’s the deal: Performing arts colleges generally have a two-step audition process (fancy, right?)—one for the school and one for the specific program. But fear not! If you're confident in your craft (and your voice isn’t shaking like a leaf), you can totally crush it. 💪
Pros of Performing Arts College:
Specialized programs: You’ll have professors who live, eat, and breathe the craft you’re into.
A high level of competition, which can be super motivating if you’re into the hustle.
In-depth programs: It’s all performing, all the time. No distractions (unless you count theater-related drama, which does exist).
Cons:
The competition can be fierce — so you’ll need to bring your A-game (and maybe an extra set of jazz hands).
Higher stress levels: You’re not just auditioning for college, you’re auditioning for your dream job. No pressure, right?
Fun Tip: Think of auditioning as a performance! Own that stage like you’re auditioning for Hamilton (even if you’re not quite there yet). Confidence is key. 💁♀️
---
4. Regular Colleges with Great Performing Arts Programs (Because Who Says You Can’t Have Both?)
Why?
Not every awesome school with performing arts programs requires an Oscar-worthy audition. Some regular colleges offer stellar programs where you get the flexibility of a non-specialized degree but still major in performing arts. It’s the best of both worlds!
Top Picks for Regular Colleges with Great Performing Arts Programs:
New York University (NYU): Home of the famous Tisch School of the Arts. Yes, the auditions are competitive, but if you make it, you get to hang out in New York City, where Broadway dreams are made! 😍
Indiana University Bloomington: Has a fantastic theater and dance program, and though it’s competitive, you’ll still find a sense of community here. You might even catch a fellow student in a cool indie film someday. 🎥
Boston University: Offers flexibility, allowing you to pursue both performing arts and academic interests without the pressure of being locked into a single track. (AKA, you can still have your Broadway dreams and a solid backup plan).
Fun Tip: At these colleges, you’re not just learning how to perform — you’re soaking in the entire vibe. If you’re passionate about arts, being in a city like New York or Boston is like performing arts heaven.
---
5. Steps to Becoming a Performing Arts Pro (It’s Not All About Auditions, But It’s Definitely Part of the Drama)
Step 1: Find Your Passion
Do you sing, dance, act, or all of the above? Get to know your craft inside and out. It’s your superpower — embrace it! 💫
Step 2: Audition for the Schools That Fit You (Not the Other Way Around)
Do your research: You don’t need to get into every performing arts college on the planet, just the ones that make you feel like you’re living your best, drama-filled life. Go for quality, not quantity.
Make a list: Narrow down your choices based on your strengths and vibe. Do you want the Broadway dream? Go for NYU or Juilliard. More relaxed but still top-tier? Consider University of Arizona or Miami.
Step 3: Practice, Practice, Practice
Do you sing in the shower? Dance around your room? That’s good practice, but you should also take formal classes to refine your skills. Whether it’s voice lessons, acting workshops, or dance, keep that passion sharp.
Step 4: Prepare for the Auditions (and Maybe Wear Something Glittery)
Let’s face it — auditions are nerve-wracking. But if you practice like you’ve never practiced before, and maybe wear something that screams “I am the next Broadway star,” you’ll have it in the bag. 💫
---
Final Thoughts: Should You Go for It?
Why?
If you’ve got the passion, the talent, and the drive to perform, then yes, performing arts is the way to go! Whether it’s a competitive school or one that lets you shine without the stress of too much drama, there are plenty of options out there. From big-name schools to non-competitive gems, the stage is yours!
So, throw on your best costume, practice that monologue, and go for it — because who knows, your name could be in lights one day. 🌟 Cue dramatic music. 🎶
Now go break a leg (but not literally, please).
1. What Makes a Performing Arts College "Great"?
Why?
First of all, let’s talk about what makes a performing arts college shine. It’s not just about having a stage or a good sound system — oh no, we’re talking about a place where your passion, your creativity, and your weird dance moves are embraced. A great performing arts college will have:
Top-notch faculty who are often professionals themselves. It’s like learning from the person who taught Beyoncé to shake it. 🐝
A robust network because let’s face it, you want to know the right people in the industry (and maybe sneak into a celebrity party someday).
Outstanding facilities, including rehearsal spaces, theaters, and sound stages — because nothing says "I'm a pro" like performing in an actual theater with the best acoustics.
---
2. Non-Competitive Performing Arts Colleges: Where "Laid-Back" Meets "Still Really Good"
Why?
Some performing arts schools are ultra-competitive — like American Idol but with fewer tears. But there are definitely schools that offer great programs without feeling like an audition for the Hunger Games. These are schools where you can still pursue your craft, but with a little less drama (except on stage, of course).
Top Non-Competitive Options:
University of Arizona: Offers a great performance program, but it's a little less cutthroat than the big-name schools. You can focus on your craft without feeling like you're auditioning every single day.
University of Southern California (USC): Known for its awesome performing arts programs, it’s competitive but also offers a relaxed atmosphere for the creative soul. They know you're an artist, not just a GPA number.
University of Miami: A good mix of a laid-back vibe with top-tier arts programs. If you like performing while sipping on some fresh coconut water, this could be your spot.
Fun Tip: Non-competitive doesn’t mean "no standards"—it just means less pressure to be a walking Broadway show every time you step on stage. So, think of it like being the cool kid who can sing and still has time to watch Netflix. 🎭📺
---
3. Is It More Challenging to Get Into Performing Arts Colleges?
Why?
Ah, the big question — is it harder to get into a performing arts college than a regular college with a performing arts program? Well, here’s the deal: Performing arts colleges generally have a two-step audition process (fancy, right?)—one for the school and one for the specific program. But fear not! If you're confident in your craft (and your voice isn’t shaking like a leaf), you can totally crush it. 💪
Pros of Performing Arts College:
Specialized programs: You’ll have professors who live, eat, and breathe the craft you’re into.
A high level of competition, which can be super motivating if you’re into the hustle.
In-depth programs: It’s all performing, all the time. No distractions (unless you count theater-related drama, which does exist).
Cons:
The competition can be fierce — so you’ll need to bring your A-game (and maybe an extra set of jazz hands).
Higher stress levels: You’re not just auditioning for college, you’re auditioning for your dream job. No pressure, right?
Fun Tip: Think of auditioning as a performance! Own that stage like you’re auditioning for Hamilton (even if you’re not quite there yet). Confidence is key. 💁♀️
---
4. Regular Colleges with Great Performing Arts Programs (Because Who Says You Can’t Have Both?)
Why?
Not every awesome school with performing arts programs requires an Oscar-worthy audition. Some regular colleges offer stellar programs where you get the flexibility of a non-specialized degree but still major in performing arts. It’s the best of both worlds!
Top Picks for Regular Colleges with Great Performing Arts Programs:
New York University (NYU): Home of the famous Tisch School of the Arts. Yes, the auditions are competitive, but if you make it, you get to hang out in New York City, where Broadway dreams are made! 😍
Indiana University Bloomington: Has a fantastic theater and dance program, and though it’s competitive, you’ll still find a sense of community here. You might even catch a fellow student in a cool indie film someday. 🎥
Boston University: Offers flexibility, allowing you to pursue both performing arts and academic interests without the pressure of being locked into a single track. (AKA, you can still have your Broadway dreams and a solid backup plan).
Fun Tip: At these colleges, you’re not just learning how to perform — you’re soaking in the entire vibe. If you’re passionate about arts, being in a city like New York or Boston is like performing arts heaven.
---
5. Steps to Becoming a Performing Arts Pro (It’s Not All About Auditions, But It’s Definitely Part of the Drama)
Step 1: Find Your Passion
Do you sing, dance, act, or all of the above? Get to know your craft inside and out. It’s your superpower — embrace it! 💫
Step 2: Audition for the Schools That Fit You (Not the Other Way Around)
Do your research: You don’t need to get into every performing arts college on the planet, just the ones that make you feel like you’re living your best, drama-filled life. Go for quality, not quantity.
Make a list: Narrow down your choices based on your strengths and vibe. Do you want the Broadway dream? Go for NYU or Juilliard. More relaxed but still top-tier? Consider University of Arizona or Miami.
Step 3: Practice, Practice, Practice
Do you sing in the shower? Dance around your room? That’s good practice, but you should also take formal classes to refine your skills. Whether it’s voice lessons, acting workshops, or dance, keep that passion sharp.
Step 4: Prepare for the Auditions (and Maybe Wear Something Glittery)
Let’s face it — auditions are nerve-wracking. But if you practice like you’ve never practiced before, and maybe wear something that screams “I am the next Broadway star,” you’ll have it in the bag. 💫
---
Final Thoughts: Should You Go for It?
Why?
If you’ve got the passion, the talent, and the drive to perform, then yes, performing arts is the way to go! Whether it’s a competitive school or one that lets you shine without the stress of too much drama, there are plenty of options out there. From big-name schools to non-competitive gems, the stage is yours!
So, throw on your best costume, practice that monologue, and go for it — because who knows, your name could be in lights one day. 🌟 Cue dramatic music. 🎶
Now go break a leg (but not literally, please).