We are excited to introduce our artists to our Back to School Guide to help make your search for the perfect program a little easier. Here are a few amazing programs you should know - whether you're studying music, theatre, dance, or cinema!
Why you should know Atlantic Acting School
Atlantic Acting School stands out as the best acting school in NYC, offering world-class training rooted in the Atlantic Technique, Practical Aesthetics, as outlined in A Practical Handbook for the Actor. With a faculty of working industry professionals, Atlantic provides students with hands-on experience, rigorous training, and a supportive artistic community. From its prestigious conservatory programs to part-time classes and youth programs, Atlantic nurtures actors at every stage of their journey. Located in the heart of New York City, the school offers unparalleled opportunities to connect with the industry while honing the craft of truthful, compelling storytelling.
New York City, New York | 76 Ninth Ave, Suite 313, New York, NY 10011
14-18, 18+
Full Time Conservatory, Evening Conservatory, Summer & Spring Intensives, Summer Teen Conservatory
Application Window:
Applications are now open for Summer Teen Ensemble, applications open October 1 for Adult Conservatory Programs
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, Atlantic's Early Admission deadline is November 15
Program Dates:
Full-Time Conservatory: Begins September 2027
Evening Conservatory: Begins September 2027
Summer & Spring Intensives: May – August, 2027
Summer Teen Conservatory: July 2027
Founded in 1985 by a passionate group of students, Atlantic has grown into both a Tony Award-winning Off-Broadway theater and the renowned Atlantic Acting School, one of the best acting schools in New York City. As the only acting conservatory offering in-depth training in Practical Aesthetics—the Atlantic Technique, as outlined in A Practical Handbook for the Actor—we equip aspiring actors with unmatched creative, technical, and professional skills. Whether you’re seeking Full-Time Conservatory training, Spring and Summer Intensives, or pre-college training, our programs deliver immersive, hands-on training that empowers actors to thrive on stage, film, and beyond. Atlantic Actors Work! Are you next?
Why you should know Northern Michigan University Theatre and Dance and Wildcat Performing Arts Academy
At NMU Theatre and Dance, you'll find the best of both worlds: the intensive, personalized training of a conservatory program combined with the flexibility and opportunities of a liberal arts university. Our career-focused approach emphasizes hands-on learning from day one, allowing you to build your artistry while exploring complementary academic interests. With a robust 15-show season, you'll gain extensive experience performing, choreographing, designing, stage managing, and/or working on production crews across our mainstage, black box, and off-site performances. Rather than waiting for opportunities, you'll be creating, collaborating, and building a professional portfolio from your very first semester.
Northern Michigan University Department of Theatre & Dance
Marquette, MI, USA
Eligible Ages: High School Graduates
Artistic Area: Dance; Musical Theatre; Acting; Theatre Technology, Design, and Production; Entertainment Arts
Application Window: Applications open October 1st
Why you should know CU Denver
The CU Denver Music & Entertainment Industry Studies Department is one of the top modern music industry college programs in the country. This program is a great value as one of only a handful of music departments nationally that focuses entirely on the modern music industry. Students also love the lower tuition since we're a public university. The college is located near the heart of Denver, a sensational music city!
Program Location: Denver, Colorado
Eligible Ages: High School Graduates
Artistic Area: Recording Arts, Audio Production, Music Business, Singer/Songwriter, Songwriter Entrepreneur, Modern/Popular Performance (Voice, Guitar, Bass, Drums, Strings, etc.)
Application Window: August 1 - April 1
Program Dates: Fall and Spring Semesters (August-May)
.png)
Why you should know Old Dominion University Diehn School of Music
At the Diehn School of Music, outstanding musician-scholar-teachers provide a rich, challenging and creative environment where students may pursue their educational dreams and aspirations. The Diehn School of Music consists of award-winning faculty who are nationally and internationally recognized leaders in their fields. Several faculty serve as principal musicians with the Virginia Symphony and are established teacher-performers in Southeastern Virginia and beyond.
Program Location: Norfolk, VA
Eligible Ages: High School Graduates
Artistic Area(s): Music Performance, Music Education, Sound Recording Technology, Music Composition, Jazz Studies, Graduate degree in Music Education, Graduate Certificate in Music
Application Window: Rolling
Program Dates (if different from normal fall admission):
The F. Ludwig Diehn School of Music cultivates and mentors a talented and diverse body of excellent artistic leaders to be at the forefront of the music field. As an urban center for musical resources and activity, we position our students towards a meaningful successful career through active engagement in performance, creative activity, pedagogy and education, research, and collaboration as passionate arts and education advocates within our global community.
Why you should know Nebraska Wesleyan Theatre
Nebraska Wesleyan University Theatre helps you do more with conservatory-style training in an inclusive liberal arts environment. Choose from BFA options in musical theatre, acting, directing, design & technology, or theatre arts—along with a streamlined BA option. Each year, NWU produces a packed schedule of full-length shows, including four musicals. We also offer triple the student-directed projects you’d find in most programs. NWU gets you involved in a production within your first months. And we’re eager to work with students whose academic interests extend beyond the theatre.
Program Location: Lincoln, Nebraska
Eligible Ages: Those with a H.S. Degree. We welcome students of all ages and stages who are passionate about theatre, including traditional 1st year students, transfer students, and any student seeking quality training.
Artistic Area(s): Acting, Musical Theatre, Design & Technology, Directing
Application Window: (if different from regular university admission) September 1st and ongoing. Earlier submissions are beneficial for financial aid and consideration for the program of interest.
Why you should know Viterbo University Conservatory for the Performing Arts
Viterbo University’s nationally connected theatre and musical theatre department in La Crosse, Wisconsin, attracts talented students from across the country. Our intensive, conservatory-style programs in musical theatre and acting combine rigorous training with a strong liberal arts foundation to support your growth as an artist and individual. As a Viterbo theatre major, you’ll work closely with experienced faculty and develop your skills on stage and behind the scenes. Through hands-on learning, personalized mentorship, and collaborative productions, you’ll build the confidence, professionalism, and versatility to take on your next role—wherever your theatre journey leads.
Program Location: La Crosse, Wisconsin
Eligible Ages: High School Graduates
Artistic Area(s): Acting, Musical Theatre
Application Window: rolling
Program Dates: Fall 2027
Why you should know The Conservatory for the Performing Arts at Stephens College
The Conservatory nurtures talent in a diverse, inclusive environment where every voice matters. Students pursuing careers in theatre, television, and film learn from working industry professionals, gain hands-on experience through productions and summer stock theatre, and develop the technical, creative, and professional skills needed for successful careers. Through rigorous training, individualized mentorship, and extensive performance opportunities, the Conservatory prepares graduates to enter the entertainment industry with confidence and a strong professional foundation.
The Conservatory for the Performing Arts at Stephens College
Program Location: Columbia, MO
Eligible Ages: High School Graduates
Artistic Areas: Acting for Stage & Screen, Musical Theatre, Filmmaking, Theatre Design & Production, Theatrical Costume Design & Production, Interdisciplinary Theatre Studies
Application Window:
Early Deadline - November 15, 2026
Final Deadline - April 1, 2027
Program Date: Fall 2027
Why you should know Circle in the Square Theatre School
Circle in the Square Theatre School is a unique home for artists and actors who are ready to transition into the professional world. We offer both a Two Year Acting Track and Two Year Musical Theatre Track, with both programs emphasizing acting technique based in truthful storytelling, with a foundation in live theatre performance. We aim to support and educate our students, giving them the tools to become successful working actors and unique theatre artists with the ability to adapt to an ever-evolving industry.
Program Location: 1633 Broadway St. New York. NY 10019 (box office address 235 W 50th St)
Eligible Ages: 18 as of October 1st 2027 and up
Artistic Area: (E.G. Piano, Musical Theatre, Voice, etc.) Musical Theatre & Acting
Application Window:
Two Year Program: October 1st, 2026 - July 30th 2027.
BFA program: Oct 1st 2026 - April 1st 2027.
Summer Program: Oct. 1st 2026 - June 5th 2027
Program Dates: September 2nd 2027 - June 1st 2028
Pace
Pace University Sands College of Performing Arts
New York, New York
Eligible Ages: Undergraduate Programs
Artistic Areas: Acting, Performance Making (Acting and Directing), Acting for Film and Media, Commercial Dance, Musical Theater, Production Design for Stage and Screen, Stage Management
Applications are now open.
APPLICATION DEADLINES
November 1: Early Decision—provided that the audition or interview is completed before December 1.
December 1: Application Final Deadline—no application will be accepted after this date.
January 4: Pre-screen Deadline—all pre-screens must be in by this date for callback consideration.
May 1: Deposit Deadline—commitment date for all admitted students, no new decisions will go out after this date.
At Sands College of Performing Arts, your career begins the day you arrive. Located in the heart of New York City, you'll train alongside accomplished faculty in acting, musical theater, commercial dance, film, production, and design while collaborating across disciplines in one of the nation's newest performing arts facilities. Broaden your industry experience and global perspective through opportunities in Los Angeles and Barcelona. Professional connections and real-world learning prepare you for careers on stage, screen, and beyond.
Stephen F Austin
Program Overview:
Program's Name: The SFA School of Music
Program Location: Nacogdoches, TX
Eligible Ages: Bachelors, Masters, Performing Artist Certificate
Artistic Area: Education, Performance, Composition, Conducting, Sound Recording Technology
Application Window: Opens September 15, 2025 through April 25, 2026
A short paragraph (approximately 50-100 words) about your program
Discover Your Sound at SFA
The SFA School of Music offers dynamic programs in music education, performance, composition, conducting, music theory, and sound recording technology—designed to match your interests and fuel your musical ambitions. Nestled in the heart of East Texas’ Pineywoods, SFA provides outstanding ensembles, chamber music opportunities, and state-of-the-art facilities to prepare you for an exciting future in music.
Our internationally recognized faculty are active performers and scholars, regularly presenting and performing around the globe. SFA graduates go on to thrive as educators, performers, composers, conductors, and recording arts professionals across Texas and beyond.
If you're passionate about music and ready to shape your future in this diverse field, there's a place for you at SFA. Axe ’Em, Jacks!
Why you should know Morningside Music Bridge
An international scholarship program for gifted artists 12–18 years, Morningside Music Bridge brings together the finest emerging artists to perform on an international stage and measure themselves against the absolute best performers globally. Participants engage in a month of intensive training and performances. Resident Artist faculty are drawn from the world’s leading performing organizations and schools. Morningside Music Bridge typically sees applicants from more than 30 countries and has awarded scholarships to students from every continent. Since our inception in 1997 more than 1,000 young artists have benefited from the barrier-free music making experience offered by Morningside Music Bridge. The core of our programming is for violin, viola, cello and piano but we also offer residencies for young creators. Students participate on a full scholarship basis with tuition, travel and room and board costs provided through the generosity of our sponsors.
Program Location: Boston, MA, USA
Eligible Ages: 12 to 18 years of age
Artistic Area: (E.G. Piano, Musical Theatre, Voice, etc.) Piano, Cello, Violin, Viola plus Creative Residency
Application Window: (please include when applications open, and your deadline) Applications open: November 1, 2026; Deadline is January 8, 2027
Program Dates: July 12 to August 6, 2027
Why you should know UWLAX
The UWL Department of Theatre & Dance offers undergraduate training in 7 distinct areas of study. We produce at least 6 productions each year including plays, musicals, theatre for young audiences, and concert dance. In addition to appearing onstage, students regularly hold lead design and management roles on our productions. Students receive mentoring in auditioning and portfolio development, and after graduation they have been accepted at top graduate schools and professional theatres around the country. UWL has received multiple recent honors from the American College Theatre Festival for individual achievement, outstanding productions, and the Citizen Artist Award.
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse Department of Theatre & Dance
Location: La Crosse, WI
Eligible Ages: Undergraduate Students
Artistic Area: Performance, Musical Theatre, Design & Technology, Stage Management, Arts Administration, Multidisciplinary Studies, Dance
Application Window: August 1, 2026- February 15, 2027
Program Dates: September-May
Description
The UWL Department of Theatre & Dance offers undergraduate training in 7 distinct areas of study. We produce at least 6 productions each year including plays, musicals, theatre for young audiences, and concert dance. In addition to appearing onstage, students regularly hold lead design and management roles on our productions. Students receive mentoring in auditioning and portfolio development, and after graduation they have been accepted at top graduate schools and professional theatres around the country. UWL has received multiple recent honors from the American College Theatre Festival for individual achievement, outstanding productions, and the Citizen Artist Award.
Why you should know Roosevelt University's Chicago College of Performing Arts (CCPA)
Comprising the Music Conservatory, the Theatre Conservatory, and the Interdisciplinary Conservatory, CCPA trains world-class artists, musicians, and theatre professionals in the heart of one of the country's most creatively accomplished cities. Roosevelt University’s history is grounded in courage, acceptance and a commitment to social justice, and CCPA has long been a place where artistic excellence, innovation, and community intersect. Our stellar faculty prepare passionate artists to be ready for today's professional industry, and students leave CCPA aware of their artistic agency as well as their social responsibility.
Program Location: Chicago, IL
Program Location: Chicago, IL
High school graduates up to young adult professionals
Artistic Areas:
Acting, Brass, Classical Guitar, Classical Voice, Composition, Harp, Interdisciplinary Musical Arts, Jazz & Contemporary Music, Music Education, Musical Theatre, Musical Theatre: Dance Concentration, Opera, Percussion, Performing Arts Administration, Piano, Strings, Theatre Directing, Woodwinds
App Window:
Theatre Conservatory:
BFA in Musical Theatre Application open August 1, 2026. Deadline is December 1, 2026.
BFA in Acting, and BFA in Musical Theatre: Dance Concentration Applications are open August 1, 2026. Deadline is January 15, 2027.
Music & Interdisciplinary Conservatories:
Applications open August 1, 2026. Priority Deadline is December 15, 2026. Final deadline is January 15, 2027.
Program Dates — Fall and Spring Semesters
Description/blurb: Comprising the Music Conservatory, the Theatre Conservatory, and the Interdisciplinary Conservatory, CCPA trains world-class artists, musicians, and theatre professionals in the heart of one of the country's most creatively accomplished cities. Roosevelt University’s history is grounded in courage, acceptance and a commitment to social justice, and CCPA has long been a place where artistic excellence, innovation, and community intersect. Our stellar faculty prepare passionate artists to be ready for today's professional industry, and students leave CCPA aware of their artistic agency as well as their social responsibility.
Music Academy of the West
Program Overview:
Program's Name: Music Academy of the West’s Lehrer Vocal Institute
Program Location: Santa Barbara, California
Eligible Ages: 18-34
Artistic Area: Opera Singers, Vocal Pianists & Stage Directors
Application Window: September 1 - October 5, 2026
Program Dates: June 26 - August 8, 2027
A short paragraph (approximately 50-100 words) about your program:
Singers, pianists, and stage directors - don't miss this life-changing opportunity to be immersed in training and performance with the best-of-the-best in one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Co-Directors Sasha Cooke and John Churchwell and the Music Academy's world-class teaching artist roster strategically offer unique performance opportunities, customized to meet your goals.
You'll enjoy multiple training and performance opportunities in both opera and art song including a fully-staged production of Verdi's Falstaff, public masterclasses, private lessons, studio classes, chamber music, the Marilyn Horne Song Competition awarding a cash prize to each singer and pianist winner, Industry Day offering feedback sessions with artist managers, opera scenes and/or a creative project, plus optional personal and professional development opportunities.
