Acting for a living is a dream that many individuals wish to pursue. Living among the stars can seem like a daydream for some. However, it is entirely possible to live among other celebrities. It takes years of hard work to make it in the film industry as well as making the right connections. Some of these connections can begin whenever you start learning the fundamentals of acting in college. However, many people have a difficult time picking the right college for them. We have a guide of some of the best acting departments in universities across the country that can provide you with a high-quality education in acting.
North Illinois University
This incredibly prestigious school holds a theater arts program that many famous celebrities have come from such as Wood Harris. Though students have to audition for the program, anyone with enough dedication can make it to the top. Students are required to do one season of an internship with SummerNITE, the School of Theater and Dance. This will help them get the edge that they need in order to advance further with their acting careers.
Rutgers University
This university is close to New York City and provides an expansive theater department for its students. The small school houses a big-campus vibe that most certainly delivers many opportunities for aspiring actors alike. The B.F.A. program of this school is not to be overlooked and has provided for some of the best talents in the industry. The program focuses on the Meisner technique, which is a “truthful instrument” that helps students identify personal meaning in everything that they do. The third year at this school is spent abroad so that students can experience other cultures around the world that will help them expand their skillset.
Syracuse University
While freshmen who are pursuing their BFA at Syracuse University aren’t allowed to perform during the first year, the intensity of the first year helps them develop into successful actors. The actors are trained with conservatory-style training, a toolbox-like approach to developing techniques, and a Wednesday lab that is dedicated to teaching students about creating theater. These techniques help develop young actors quickly in an almost boot camp-like environment. If Broadway is your endgame goal, then Syracuse University is for you. They are currently among one of the top schools in the country to produce successful actors that will go on to perform in Broadway.
University of Michigan
The performing arts department of this school is nothing to laugh about when it comes to producing successful actors. Students will be trained with the physical and mental demands that come with theater thanks to some of the best teachers in the industry. The university houses a low-student-to-teacher ratio. This means that students can spend more hands-on time with their instructors to learn more intensely about performing arts. Though the university is best-known for its football team, serious aspiring actors should heavily consider coming here for an education.
Finding The Right College for You
Acting is more than just a dream for some people. It is a passion in which drives their lives further every day. However, it should be noted that everyone can benefit from a proper education in performing arts. This will expand their repertoire and allow them to make the contacts necessary to be successful in the industry. These schools that we have listed are some of the best in the country. Their reputation precedes them when it comes to educating actors on how to perform. Use this guide to help you advance your acting career further if you so desire.