What Can You Do with a Performing Arts Degree? Career Paths & Opportunities

Pursuing a degree in performing arts is often driven by a passion for the stage, screen, or creative expression. However, not all graduates end up performing professionally. With a strong foundation in industry-relevant skills and artistic expertise, there are numerous career pathways available beyond acting and dancing.

Some common professions for performing arts graduates include:

• Actor (stage or screen)

• Dancer

• Theatre Director

• Vocalist

• Stage Manager

• Drama Therapist

• Performing Arts Educator

Understanding Performing Arts

Performing arts encompass creative disciplines such as drama, music, and dance, where live performances engage an audience. These degrees are highly interactive, encouraging students to explore contemporary and interdisciplinary practices.

The field offers various specializations, including acting, musical theatre, physical theatre, digital arts, sound design, and movement studies. Academic courses often integrate live and digital performance elements to reflect the evolving nature of the industry.

Duration and Structure of a Performing Arts Degree

Most undergraduate performing arts programs span three to four years, depending on the university. These programs typically result in a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or, less commonly, a Bachelor of Performing Arts (BPA) degree.

Performing arts degrees may be practice-based—focusing heavily on performance from the start—or theory-driven, combining practical work with an academic study of the field’s history and influences. A blend of workshops, rehearsals, and lectures forms the core learning approach. Many universities also offer work placements, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in professional settings.

While most degrees provide a broad foundation in multiple disciplines, some institutions offer specialized programs in drama, music, or dance. Additionally, students can opt for joint honours degrees, pairing performing arts with another subject like English literature or media studies.

Preparing for a Performing Arts Degree

Entry requirements vary across institutions, with some preferring applicants who have prior experience in drama, music, or dance. However, a strong passion and willingness to perform during auditions are often more critical than formal academic qualifications.

Most universities conduct auditions, which can involve solo or group performances. Schools generally provide guidelines to help candidates prepare. To strengthen their applications, aspiring students should seek work experience, participate in theatre groups, or engage in voluntary creative projects.

Career Prospects Post-Graduation

A performing arts degree can lead to various careers both within and beyond the entertainment industry. Graduates often secure roles such as:

• Actor or Theatre Performer

• Community Arts Worker

• Choreographer

• Music Therapist

• Theatre Director

However, career options are not limited to performance-based roles. Graduates may also work as broadcast presenters, scriptwriters, stage managers, or educators in schools and higher education institutions. Many professionals in the field work on short-term or freelance contracts, securing roles through networking, auditions, or independent projects.

Additionally, some graduates transition into related industries such as public relations, marketing, and journalism. For example, Kiran Bird, a PR account manager, credits her drama and philosophy degree from Royal Holloway University with helping her develop communication and critical thinking skills crucial to her current role.

Famous Performing Arts Graduates

Many well-known figures in the entertainment industry studied performing arts at university. Notable alumni include:

• Kristin Chenoweth (Yale University) – Tony Award-winning actress and singer

• Tom Hanks (California State University) – Academy Award-winning actor

• Matt Lucas & David Walliams (University of Bristol) – Comedians and television personalities

• Meghan Markle (Northwestern University) – Actress and former Duchess of Sussex

Final Thoughts

A performing arts degree offers a wealth of opportunities beyond traditional stage or screen roles. Whether in performance, education, therapy, media, or business, the skills gained from a performing arts education—creativity, adaptability, and communication—are highly valuable across multiple industries. For those passionate about the arts, this degree serves as a gateway to diverse and fulfilling career paths.