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Study acting abroad
An in-depth guide to studying acting as an international student.
Explore acting programs abroad
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PhD programs in
actingNo programs listed
Acting degrees abroad
A degree in acting will prepare you for a future as an actor on screen, stage or any other media. It’s the ideal choice for students with a passion for performing, and many acting programs cover other performing arts like singing and dancing.
The approaches to acting and theater are different all over the world, so choosing to study abroad is a great way to gain a new perspective on the subject. There are hundreds of universities, colleges and drama schools that offer acting programs available all over the world.
Studying acting abroad is also a great way to broaden your personal horizons by experiencing a new culture, improving your language skills and making friends from all over the world.
Acting program structure
You can study for a degree in acting at bachelor’s, master’s and doctorate levels. At undergraduate level you can study for a BA in acting, or in some countries including the US and Canada you can study a BFA (bachelor of fine arts).
Most undergraduate degrees take up to four years to complete, and a master’s will be studied over one or two years. If you want to study a research or teaching-led doctorate in acting, this can take up to five years to complete depending on the program you choose.
The content and structure of each acting program will vary based on the university and country you study in. Some acting degrees incorporate other elements of drama or theater production, so it’s important you check the program curriculum before you apply.
Acting programs are usually taught using a combination of teacher-led classes, practical workshops and some lectures. You’ll often get the opportunity to make important industry connections and perform in front of agents and casting professionals.
Assessments take place through examinations, both written and practical, coursework and written reports. Many programs include a final year performance or showcase that will be assessed.
Modules and subject areas you might find on an acting program include:
- Acting theory
- Movement
- Improvisation
- Voice and vocal production
- Music and singing
- Rehearsal skills
- Stage combat
- Theater history
- Showcase
How to study acting abroad
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Acting study abroad programs
Acting undergraduate programs
Bachelor's in acting
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Acting - BFA DePaul University, USA
- Program type
- Bachelor's
- Duration
- 4 years
- Annual tuition fee
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41,814 USD
Fee in university's local currency 41,814 USD
- Start date
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Acting - BFA Trinity Western University, Canada
- Program type
- Bachelor's
- Duration
- 4 years
- Annual tuition fee
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17,748 USD
Fee in university's local currency 22,260 CAD
- Start date
- September, January
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Acting for Contemporary & Devised Performance - BA (Hons) University of Northampton, UK
- Program type
- Bachelor's
- Duration
- 3 years
- Annual tuition fee
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17,950 USD
Fee in university's local currency 12,900 GBP
- Start date
- September
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Acting - BFA University of Illinois at Chicago, USA
- Program type
- Bachelor's
- Duration
- 4 years
- Annual tuition fee
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29,800 USD
Fee in university's local currency 29,800 USD
- Start date
- January, May, August
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Acting - BA (Hons) Arts University Bournemouth, UK
- Program type
- Bachelor's
- Duration
- 3 years
- Annual tuition fee
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23,586 USD
Fee in university's local currency 16,950 GBP
- Start date
- October
Diploma in acting
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Acting and Theatre - UGDip Trinity College Dublin, Ireland
- Program type
- Undergraduate diploma
- Duration
- 1 year
- Annual tuition fee
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24,459 USD
Fee in university's local currency 20,609 EUR
- Start date
- September
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Acting for Film and Television - UGDip Humber College Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning, Canada
- Program type
- Undergraduate diploma
- Duration
- 2 years
- Annual tuition fee
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12,288 USD
Fee in university's local currency 15,412 CAD
- Start date
- September
Acting graduate programs
Master's in acting
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Acting - MFA DePaul University, USA
- Program type
- Master's
- Duration
- 2 years
- Annual tuition fee
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27,680 USD
Fee in university's local currency 27,680 USD
- Start date
- January, March, September
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Actors Studio Drama School - Acting, Directing and Playwriting - MFA Pace University, USA
- Program type
- Master's
- Duration
- 2 years
- Annual tuition fee
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44,714 USD
Fee in university's local currency 44,714 USD
- Start date
- January, September
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Theatre Arts/Acting/Directing - MFA Long Island University Post, USA
- Program type
- Master's
- Duration
- 2 years
- Annual tuition fee
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44,100 USD
Fee in university's local currency 44,100 USD
- Start date
- January, September
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Theatre Arts: Acting - MFA California State University, Long Beach, USA
- Program type
- Master's
- Duration
- 2 years
- Annual tuition fee
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14,604 USD
Fee in university's local currency 14,604 USD
- Start date
- August, January
Future acting careers
The dream and ambition of many acting students is to become a professional actor on stage or screen. However, that is not the only career path available - some of the most popular roles for acting graduates include:
- Stage actor
- Screen actor
- Musical theater performer
- Acting coach/teacher
- Drama therapist
- Theater director
- Arts administrator
There are many other jobs you could pursue after you have completed your acting degree, both inside and outside of the performing arts area.
Many programs are designed to help you get work as an actor by helping you connect with useful contacts, preparing you for auditions and helping you build a professional showreel.
