How to Choose Between Drama School and University

As someone who has been in drama school and university, I have seen the problems when someone applies to a course that isn’t for them. It’s vital that people making the choice between drama school and university make an informed choice.

The trouble is that when you’re 18 or so, you might not really know the difference. In America for instance, most college acting programmes are like drama school programmes in the UK, so the distinction isn’t so obvious.

However, in the UK, a university drama degree course and a drama school degree course are likely to be different in several major ways.

Many parents usher their children into a nice safe drama degree, as a way of either cushioning the disappointment of failing to attend a drama school, or simply protecting them by having them hedge their bets. Do a little bit of practise and a little bit of academic study and you’ll be an all rounder. If only that were true.

Furthermore, there are many colleges that offer performing arts courses of varying lengths and credibility.

It’s fucking confusing!  How do you choose?

From years of experience, here’s some simple guidance on the difference.

UNIVERSITY DRAMA DEGREE COURSE 

• Usually 3 years, although 4 in Scotland.

• Can range from high, balanced or low amounts of practical classes.

• Often more theory than practise.

• Often practise is related to ‘research’.

• Limited amount of contact time with staff.

• Institution is Research-driven

• Entry based on academic achievement (and sometimes an audition too)

• High or reasonably high written element

• Relatively few professional industry links

• Course fees up to £9000 per year.

• Taught by Lecturers – who may also have practical experience.

• Opportunity to explore own interests within the course.

• Graduation pathways include the industry, but graduating with a generalist qualification.

DRAMA SCHOOL COURSE 

• Institution is Practise Driven

• Entry based on audition, sometimes like RADA – several.

• Low or reasonably low written element

• High number of contact hours with staff

• Very little theory

• Highly practical

• Abundant professional industry links

• Course fees up to £9000 per year.

• Taught by former actors, directors, writers etc

• Little opportunity to explore own interests within the course.

• Graduation pathway is the industry, credibility with agents, Spotlight and Equity membership

• These courses are VERY different. Very different requirements for entry, very different contents and very different graduation paths.

Think very hard before choosing and always do your RESEARCH.