When choosing a performing arts college for musical theater or acting, it's crucial to look beyond reputation and truly assess the factors that will contribute to your success and well-being. Here's a comprehensive list of factors to research:

• Program Type and Degree:

  • BFA (Bachelor of Fine Arts): Highly focused, intensive training in performance, typically with 75% or more of coursework in your major. Ideal if you are 100% committed to a performance career.

  • BA (Bachelor of Arts): A broader liberal arts education with a major in performing arts. Offers more flexibility for double majors, minors, and exploring other academic interests.

  • BM (Bachelor of Music): Specific to musical performance, often with a strong emphasis on classical training.

  • Conservatory: Dedicated solely to intensive arts training, often with less emphasis on general education requirements. Can be highly competitive.

  • University with a Conservatory/Arts School: Offers the focused training of a conservatory within a larger university setting, providing a more traditional college experience and diverse student body.

• Curriculum and Training Philosophy:

  • Specific Training Methods: Do they teach Stanislavsky, Meisner, Alexander Technique, or other specific acting methods? Does this align with your preferred learning style or desired approach?

  • Balance of Disciplines: For musical theater, how is the curriculum balanced between acting, singing, and dance? Are there specific tracks or opportunities for specialization?

  • Course Offerings: Look at the detailed course catalog. Are there classes in acting for the camera, stage combat, dialects, musical theater history, or new works?

  • Production Opportunities: How many productions are mounted each year? Are there opportunities for undergraduates to perform, direct, or work backstage? Do they produce new works or a diverse range of plays/musicals?

  • Professional Development / Interdisciplinary Studies: Do they offer courses in the business of acting, audition techniques, career guidance, or senior showcases?

• Faculty and Mentorship:

  • Professional Experience: Are the faculty members actively working professionals in the industry (actors, directors, choreographers, musicians)? This can bring valuable current industry insights and connections.

  • Teaching Philosophy: Do their teaching styles resonate with you?

  • Accessibility: How accessible are professors for one-on-one meetings, feedback, and mentorship outside of class?

  • Student-to-Faculty Ratio: Smaller class sizes often mean more individualized attention.

• Facilities and Resources:

  • Rehearsal Spaces: Are there adequate and accessible rehearsal rooms, dance studios, and practice rooms?

  • Performance Venues: What kind of theaters or performance spaces are available on campus?

  • Recording Studios/Technology: For prescreens or self-taping, are there resources for high-quality audio and video recording?

  • Costume, Scenic, Lighting Shops: Even if you're not tech-focused, good production resources indicate a strong program.

  • Library Resources: Access to scripts, scores, and theatrical research materials.

• Campus Environment and Location:

  • Urban, Suburban, or Rural: Consider the kind of daily life and surrounding community you prefer.

  • Proximity to Industry: Is the school located near major theatrical hubs (NYC, LA, Chicago, regional theaters) that offer internship or professional opportunities?

  • Campus Culture: Is it a large university or a smaller, more intimate setting? Does the student body feel diverse, collaborative, or competitive?

  • Student Life: What are the extracurricular activities, clubs, and social opportunities outside of the performing arts department?

• Alumni Success and Networking:

  • Career Placement: What are graduates doing after the program? Are they working professionally in the industry?

  • Alumni Network: Is there an active alumni network that supports current students through mentorship, internships, or job leads?

  • Showcases: Does the program offer a senior showcase in major cities for agents and casting directors?

• Financial Considerations:

  • Tuition and Fees: Understand the full cost of attendance, including living expenses.

  • Scholarships and Financial Aid: What scholarships are available specifically for performing arts students? What is the average financial aid package?

  • Cost of Living: If off-campus, research rental costs, transportation, etc.

• Audition Process and Requirements:

  • Specific Material: Do their audition requirements align with your strengths (e.g., specific song styles, classical vs. contemporary monologues, dance calls)?

  • Interview Process: What is the interview like? Does it feel like a good "fit" conversation?

  • Importance of Academics: While performing arts schools focus on talent, some place a greater emphasis on academic transcripts and test scores than others.

• Accreditation and Reputation:

  • While not the sole factor, a school's accreditation and general reputation within the industry can be indicators of quality.

  • Talk to current students, alumni, and industry professionals for their insights.

• "Gut Feeling" and Fit:

  • Ultimately, the "best" school is the one where you feel you will thrive, grow as an artist, and feel supported. Visiting campuses, sitting in on classes, and talking to current students can provide invaluable insight into the program's "vibe."