undergraduate
General performing arts
Best schools with general performing arts
What is a general performing arts major?
Performing arts programs focus on the general study of dramatic works and their performance. Includes instruction in major works of dramatic literature, dramatic styles and types, and the principles of organizing and producing full live or filmed productions. Subsets include dance, drama, playwriting, theatre design and acting.
of students said a highlight of this major was the exposure to diverse perspectives.
of students found this major to be difficult.
of students said they were motivated to select this major because it fit their passion & interest.
of students and alumni plan on being or are currently employed in an occupation related to this major.
of students said limited career opportunities were a challenging aspect of the major.
How much do general performing arts majors make?
This data isn't currently reported, but we're working on it!
How popular is general performing arts as a major?
Each year, around 1,220 students obtain a bachelor’s degree and around 140 students obtain an associate degree in general performing arts. In 2021, 1,497 students received a bachelor's degree and 149 students received an associate degree. This is 6% more general performing arts majors than there were in 2020. General performing arts is one of the most popular majors within performing arts.
Advice from general performing arts majors
Share your experienceDo not, and I repeat, DO NOT let other people decide who you want to be and how you want other people to perceive you; Be your own person and be unique and authentic. Also, if you want a career in the performing arts, you have to be willing to work harder than anyone else, because that is the only way you will see improvement and success.
Do everything that works for you. Be open to critiques and be true to yourself.
Keep an open mind and remember why you are at your school. After only being in my musical theatre program for 3 weeks, I can confidently say you will be doing some strange work in your classes. This work may be out of the ordinary for you, but you will begin to see the benefits of it. And the benefits will be multiplied the more you embrace the weirdness and trust in the process. Remembering why you chose your school is important as well. I remember questioning and having a really difficult time in the beginning, being away from family, not making friends as soon as I got there, and feeling a bit out of place. But I remembered that I am not there for other people. I am there to learn and grow. This is my opportunity to train and become a better version of myself. I can't compare myself to others because I am not another person. I can only strive to be better than my past self and take advantage of this amazing opportunity to learn from amazingly knowledgeable and talented individuals.
If you are truly passionate about performing and wanting to pursue it as a career, go for it! Be prepared to put your all into it and to work on improving yourself and well as helping to improve others.
Follow you passions and pick a program that supports your goals and aspirations. Also, learn how to time manage. This will be very important since majoring in performing arts is extremely time consuming.
