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Study performing arts abroad
An in-depth guide to studying performing arts as an international student.
Explore performing arts programs abroad
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Master's programs in
performing artsNo programs listed
Performing arts degrees abroad
Performing arts is a creative subject that spans several disciplines, including drama, dance, and music. Programs are designed to equip students with the training, experience, and connections they’ll need to stand out in an increasingly competitive global industry.
As a performing arts student, you’ll develop a sound theoretical and practical understanding of the field. As well as honing your acting techniques, fine-tuning your singing voice, and perfecting your dance skills, you’ll work behind the scenes in areas like choreography, set design, and stage management.
By earning your degree abroad, you’ll see how different countries and cultures use the performing arts to express and reflect their identities. You’ll practice new methods and techniques that will transform you into a more versatile and experienced performer. As well as gaining an invaluable global perspective on the subject, you’ll travel the world, make new friends, and have the adventure of a lifetime.
Performing arts program structure
There are plenty of options when it comes to studying performing arts. Undergraduate degrees are usually studied as a BA or a bachelor of performing arts (BPA). There is very little difference between the two programs and they’re both studied over three or four years.
If you decide to study your bachelor’s in the US, you’ll choose between a BA and a bachelor of fine arts (BFA). Whereas BFA programs have an intensive performing arts focus, a BA will involve studying more liberal arts modules. All US undergraduate programs last a minimum of four years.
If you’re still eager to learn more after completing your bachelor’s, you can enroll in an MA or master of fine arts (MFA) program. Whilst MA programs are research-based, MFA courses focus on professional artistic practice and teaching.
It’s possible to study a PhD in performing arts, but it’s important to remember that there will be no practical element involved. This qualification can take anywhere between four and seven years to complete.
Most undergraduate performing arts programs blend theory and practice, so you’ll be taught through a combination of lectures, practical classes, seminars, and workshops. Although assessment methods will vary from module to module, you can expect to encounter written exams, practical assessments, essays, presentations, and portfolios.
The exact content of performing arts programs will differ slightly according to the interests and expertise of university faculty around the world. However, most programs will cover these fundamentals:
- Theater, history, and culture
- Stage design
- Modes of acting
- Music theory
- Musical performance
- Dance techniques
- Choreography
- Introduction to directing
Types of performing arts degrees
How to study performing arts abroad
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Performing arts study abroad programs
Performing arts undergraduate programs
Bachelor's in performing arts
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Performing Arts: Musical Theatre - BA American University, USA
- Program type
- Bachelor's
- Duration
- 4 years
- Annual tuition fee
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50,542 USD
Fee in university's local currency 50,542 USD
- Start date
- January, August
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Film and Television - Comedy Filmmaking - BFA DePaul University, USA
- Program type
- Bachelor's
- Duration
- 4 years
- Annual tuition fee
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40,551 USD
Fee in university's local currency 40,551 USD
- Start date
- January, March, September
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Creative & Performing Arts - BA (Hons) Liverpool Hope University, UK
- Program type
- Bachelor's
- Duration
- 3 years
- Annual tuition fee
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15,586 USD
Fee in university's local currency 11,400 GBP
- Start date
- September
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Performing Arts - BPA University of Otago, New Zealand
- Program type
- Bachelor's
- Duration
- 3 years
- Annual tuition fee
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14,245 USD
Fee in university's local currency 19,790 NZD
- Start date
- February, July
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Communication - Theatre & Comedy - BA William Paterson University, USA
- Program type
- Bachelor's
- Duration
- 4 years
- Annual tuition fee
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21,768 USD
Fee in university's local currency 21,768 USD
- Start date
- January, September
Diploma in performing arts
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Comedy: Writing and Performance - UGDip Humber College Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning, Canada
- Program type
- Undergraduate diploma
- Duration
- 2 years
- Annual tuition fee
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12,168 USD
Fee in university's local currency 15,412 CAD
- Start date
- September
Certificate in performing arts
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Performing Arts Fundamentals - Cert Centennial College, Canada
- Program type
- Undergraduate certificate
- Duration
- 1 year
- Annual tuition fee
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13,052 USD
Fee in university's local currency 16,531 CAD
- Start date
- September
Pathway in performing arts
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Integrated Foundation of Music and Performing Arts - FD Bath Spa University, UK
- Program type
- Undergraduate pathway
- Duration
- 3 years
- Annual tuition fee
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19,551 USD
Fee in university's local currency 14,300 GBP
- Start date
- September
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Performing Arts (Foundation) - FD Leeds Beckett University, UK
- Program type
- Undergraduate pathway
- Duration
- 2 years
- Annual tuition fee
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14,903 USD
Fee in university's local currency 10,900 GBP
- Start date
- January, September
Performing arts graduate programs
Doctorate in performing arts
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Performing Arts - PhD University of Gloucestershire, UK
- Program type
- Doctorate
- Duration
- 3 years
- Annual tuition fee
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18,047 USD
Fee in university's local currency 13,200 GBP
- Start date
- January, September
Future performing arts careers
Thanks to your degree in performing arts, you’ll be equipped with the confidence, creativity, and collaboration skills needed to excel in a fiercely competitive industry.
Here are some of the most popular career options pursued by performing arts graduates:
- Actor
- Musician
- Professional dancer
- Dramatherapist
- Community arts worker
- Stage manager
- Director
- Talent agent
Apart from charisma and talent, employers are always looking for evidence of experience and passion. So, getting involved in your university’s performing arts societies, joining the local theater group, and undertaking work experience with industry professionals will help kickstart your career.
