CONSERVATORY PROGRAMS

Advanced Professional Program | Diploma Program | Admissions | Faculty | Curriculum

The National Conservatory of Dramatic Arts is accredited by the Accrediting Commision of Career Schools and Colleges of Technology, licensed by the District of Columbia Government and approved for the enrollment of veterans and for attendance by non-immigrant alien students.

Philosophy and Objectives

The Conservatory provides a unique academic environment where actors are free to take chances, test themselves, and learn. We encourage and respect indivivual initiative.

Each program is designed to develop style and technique with primary emphasis on the physical and intellectual aspects of successful interpretation of a role.

Specifically the programs:

• train the actor's instrument; body, voice and speech
• develop the actor's physical and vocal dynamics as acting tools
• develop the actor's concentration and discipline
• encourage creative individuality
• teach the actor through physical acting to develop their body as they are learning technique and skills needed to perform
• develop technical literacy
• acquaint the actor with work in the field, where to find it, and how to present his or herself as a capable, well-trained professional in performance and attitude
• develop self-confidence and a positive self image
• develop the ability to work cooperatively with others as a member of an ensemble dedicated to the total performance

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Diploma Program

Candidates for the Dimploma in Acting must successfully complete designated requirements totaling 60 credit hours with a minimum 2.0 quality point average. The normal time for a student to complete the program is 60 weeks. Diplomas are conferred at the end of each Spring semester.

The program prepares students for a career in the entertainment industry. This objective is realized by training the student in the skills a potential employer may require - voice, acting, speech, movement. This concentrated program permits a student to complete their training in two academic years or less, leading to entry-level employment opportunities in theatre, television, film, radio, industrial and trade shows, conventions, sports arenas, theme parks, cruises and resorts.

The training under the guidance of professional artists, emphasizes rehearsal and preparation work as well as lecture. Activites are designed to give the student a maximum amount of theatrical experience, while emphasizing the development of practical skills. Students gain the basic knowledge and discipline to become skilled crafts people. Classes are conducted to reflect actual working conditions likely to be found in the professional world.

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Advanced Professional Program

Candidates for the Advanced Professional Program Certificate must successfully complete designated requirements totaling 30 credit hours with a minimum 2.0 quality point average. The normal time for a full-time student to complete the program is 30 weeks and a certificate of Advanced Studies in Actor Training is conferred at the end of the spring semester.

The major objective of the Advanced Program is to further develop actors who are graduates of accredited professional training institutions or the equivalent of those who have documented professional experience.

This objective is realized by thoroughly exposing each student to the practical development of the actor through study, rehearsal, and performance of plays and projects. The student is cast in roles that provide enough range and challenges to ensure every opportunity for growth and development.

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