| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
Location: Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom.
Type: Public conservatoire.
Accreditation: Recognized as one of the UK's top conservatoires and a member of the Federation of Drama Schools.
Global Reputation: RCS consistently ranks among the best performing arts schools globally, renowned for its cutting-edge programs and facilities.
Campus: Located in the heart of Glasgow, the campus provides access to Scotland's vibrant arts scene.
The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland offers a range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and professional training programs across various disciplines, including:
Music:
Bachelor of Music (BMus) and Master of Music (MMus) programs in disciplines like classical, jazz, traditional Scottish music, and composition.
Training in orchestral performance, conducting, opera, and chamber music.
Collaborative opportunities with prestigious orchestras, such as the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra.
Drama:
Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Master of Arts (MA) in Acting, Contemporary Performance, and Musical Theatre.
Courses that focus on screen acting, classical theatre, and devising original work.
Graduates include notable actors such as James McAvoy and Richard Madden.
Dance:
BA Modern Ballet, offered in partnership with Scottish Ballet, focusing on professional ballet training.
Production:
BA programs in Production Arts and Design, Production Technology and Management.
Training in scenic design, stage management, lighting, and sound.
Film:
Programs in filmmaking that combine technical, creative, and storytelling skills.
Professional Graduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) for music and drama teaching.
Short courses and summer schools for aspiring performers of all ages.
RCS boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including:
Performance venues like the New Athenaeum Theatre and the Alexander Gibson Opera Studio.
Over 90 practice rooms, recording studios, and specialized rehearsal spaces.
The Whittaker Library, one of the most extensive performing arts libraries in the UK.
The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland has produced numerous distinguished alumni who have excelled in various fields of the performing arts, including:
James McAvoy (Actor, X-Men, Atonement).
Richard Madden (Actor, Game of Thrones, The Bodyguard).
Alan Cumming (Actor, The Good Wife, Cabaret).
Sam Heughan (Actor, Outlander).
Karen Cargill (Opera singer).
Admission to RCS is highly competitive, with an emphasis on auditions, interviews, and portfolios depending on the program. Applicants are expected to demonstrate exceptional talent, dedication, and a commitment to the performing arts. International students are welcome, and the conservatoire supports a diverse student body.
Located in Glasgow, a UNESCO City of Music, students at RCS benefit from the city’s rich cultural life, festivals, and performing arts scene.
Collaboration between students in different disciplines fosters a vibrant and interdisciplinary environment.
RCS offers student accommodation and support services to help students adjust to life at the conservatoire.
RCS collaborates with institutions and organizations such as:
BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra.
Scottish Ballet.
National Theatre of Scotland.
International partnerships for exchange programs and performance opportunities.
RCS is internationally recognized for its music education, offering programs across classical, jazz, traditional Scottish music, and contemporary styles.
BMus (Bachelor of Music) – Specializations include:
Classical Performance (Strings, Brass, Woodwind, Keyboard, Voice, Guitar, Percussion)
Jazz
Traditional Music (focusing on Scottish heritage)
Composition
Joint Principal Study (combining two disciplines, such as piano and voice)
BA (Hons) Traditional Music – Focuses on Scottish and Irish traditional music.
MMus/MA (Master of Music/Arts) – Specializations include:
Performance (classical, jazz, and traditional music)
Conducting (orchestral, choral)
Opera Studies
Composition
Advanced Postgraduate Diploma (Professional Training) – For artists seeking intensive training in performance.
PhD/DPerf (Doctoral Programs) – Research-based programs for advanced musicians and scholars.
Junior Conservatoire: Pre-college training for young musicians.
Professional Graduate Diploma in Education (PGDE): Music teaching qualification.
RCS is a leading institution for drama training, offering programs that focus on acting, musical theatre, and contemporary performance.
BA Acting – Training in classical, contemporary, and on-screen acting techniques.
BA Musical Theatre – Combines acting, singing, and dancing for the stage and screen.
BA Contemporary Performance Practice – Emphasizes experimental, interdisciplinary approaches to creating original works.
MA Classical and Contemporary Text (Acting/Directing) – Focus on Shakespearean performance and modern theatre.
MA Musical Theatre (Performance/Directing) – Advanced training for performers and directors.
MFA Acting/Directing (Classical and Contemporary Text) – Two-year program for in-depth acting or directing training.
Junior Conservatoire: Drama training for younger students.
Short courses and summer programs in acting and performance.
Course Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
BMus (Bachelor of Music) |
4 years |
$26,000 - $30,000 |
|
BA (Hons) Acting |
3 years |
$26,000 - $30,000 |
|
BA (Hons) Musical Theatre |
3 years |
$26,000 - $30,000 |
|
BA (Hons) Contemporary Performance Practice |
4 years |
$26,000 - $30,000 |
|
BA (Hons) Modern Ballet |
3 years |
$26,000 - $30,000 |
|
BA (Hons) Filmmaking |
3 years |
$26,000 - $30,000 |
|
BA (Hons) Production Arts and Design |
3 years |
$26,000 - $30,000 |
|
BA (Hons) Production Technology and Management |
3 years |
$26,000 - $30,000 |
|
BA (Hons) Traditional Music |
4 years |
$26,000 - $30,000 |
Course Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
MMus/MA Performance (Classical/Jazz/Traditional) |
1-2 years |
$30,000 - $32,000 |
|
MMus/MA Composition |
1-2 years |
$30,000 - $32,000 |
|
MMus/MA Conducting (Orchestral/Choral) |
1-2 years |
$30,000 - $32,000 |
|
MA Opera |
1 year |
$32,000 |
|
MA/MFA Musical Theatre (Performance/Directing) |
1-2 years |
$30,000 - $32,000 |
|
MA Classical and Contemporary Text (Acting/Directing) |
1-2 years |
$30,000 - $32,000 |
|
MFA Acting/Directing (Classical and Contemporary Text) |
2 years |
$30,000 - $32,000 |
|
MA Production Arts and Design |
1 year |
$30,000 |
|
MA Filmmaking |
1 year |
$30,000 |
|
MFA Filmmaking |
2 years |
$30,000 - $32,000 per year |
|
MA/MFA Contemporary Performance Practice |
1-2 years |
$30,000 - $32,000 |
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) |
3-6 years |
$20,000 - $22,000 |
|
DPerf (Doctor of Performance) |
3-6 years |
$20,000 - $22,000 |
World-Class Education:
RCS is consistently ranked among the world’s top performing arts institutions, with outstanding teaching and performance opportunities.
Diverse Community:
International students make up a significant percentage of the student body, creating a vibrant and multicultural learning environment.
Professional Partnerships:
RCS collaborates with leading arts organizations, including BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, Scottish Ballet, Scottish Opera, and the National Theatre of Scotland, providing opportunities for real-world experience.
Dedicated International Support:
RCS offers extensive support for international students, including visa assistance, English language support, and orientation programs.
Location – Glasgow, Scotland:
Glasgow is a UNESCO City of Music and one of the UK's most affordable, friendly, and culturally rich cities, with a thriving arts and music scene.
International students can choose from a variety of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs, including:
Music: Classical, Jazz, Traditional Scottish Music, Composition, Opera, and Conducting.
Drama: Acting, Musical Theatre, and Contemporary Performance Practice.
Dance: Modern Ballet in partnership with Scottish Ballet.
Film and Production: Filmmaking, Production Arts and Design, and Production Technology and Management.
Doctoral Programs: PhD and Doctor of Performance (DPerf).
Explore the range of programs offered by RCS in music, drama, dance, production, and film.
Visit the official website to learn about the curriculum, audition requirements, and deadlines for your chosen program.
Academic Qualifications:
For undergraduate programs, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent qualifications (e.g., A-levels, IB, or equivalent for international students).
For postgraduate programs, a bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification is required.
For PhD or DPerf, you need a master's degree or substantial professional experience.
English Language Proficiency:
If English is not your first language, you must meet the English language requirements:
IELTS Academic: Minimum overall score of 6.5 (with no component below 6.0).
Equivalent qualifications, such as TOEFL or Cambridge English, may also be accepted.
Program-Specific Requirements:
Each program has its own specific audition, portfolio, or interview requirements. For example:
Music: Instrument or vocal auditions, music theory, and sight-reading.
Drama: Monologues, improvisation, and workshops.
Film: Portfolio of past work.
Most applications to RCS are made through the UCAS Conservatoires system: www.ucas.com/conservatoires.
UCAS Conservatoires Code for RCS: R58.
Application fees: £27.50 (~$35 USD) for multiple choices.
For PhD or DPerf programs, applications are submitted directly to RCS via their online portal.
When applying, you will need to provide:
Personal Information:
Include details about your academic background, performance experience, and contact information.
Statement of Purpose/Personal Statement:
Explain your motivation for applying, your goals, and why you are interested in your chosen program.
Reference Letters:
Academic or professional references to support your application.
Audition/Portfolio Submission:
Upload audition videos, portfolios, or other creative materials as required for your program.
Check the specific requirements for your program on the RCS website.
Application Fee:
Pay the application fee via UCAS Conservatoires or directly to RCS for doctoral programs.
Auditions:
Most programs require auditions, which can be conducted in-person, online, or by submitting recorded materials.
Drama programs may require prepared monologues and improvisation exercises.
Music programs may require performance pieces, sight-reading, and technical exercises.
Film programs may require a portfolio or a short film submission.
Interviews:
Some programs, particularly postgraduate ones, may require an interview to discuss your goals and your understanding of the field.
Audition Fees:
Some programs may charge a separate audition fee (approximately £50-£100, depending on the program).
After completing the audition or interview process, RCS will evaluate your application and audition performance.
If successful, you will receive an offer of admission through UCAS Conservatoires. Offers can be:
Unconditional: You meet all requirements.
Conditional: You need to meet additional requirements, such as English language scores or pending academic qualifications.
Once you receive an offer, log in to UCAS Conservatoires to formally accept or decline the offer.
International students should start preparing their visa applications and arranging finances immediately after accepting the offer.
If you are an international student (non-UK), you will need a Student Visa (formerly Tier 4). RCS provides guidance on the visa application process:
Receive a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from RCS after accepting your offer.
Apply for a UK Student Visa through the UK government visa website.
Provide evidence of financial support, tuition payment, and English proficiency.
Accommodation:
RCS offers student housing (e.g., Base Glasgow) or you can arrange private accommodation.
Travel:
Book your travel to Glasgow and ensure you arrive in time for orientation.
Main Intake:
RCS typically has one main intake for most programs, starting in September of each academic year.
Applications generally open in September of the previous year and close by October to January, depending on the program.
Application Deadlines via UCAS Conservatoires:
Music Programs:
Early deadline (typically October).
Drama, Dance, Production, and Film Programs:
Deadlines vary but are usually in January or later.
Flexible Intake:
PhD and DPerf programs often have two intakes per year (September and January).
Applications are typically submitted directly to RCS, and deadlines can vary.
Junior Conservatoire:
Pre-college training for young performers has specific intakes, usually following the school academic calendar.
Short Courses and Summer Programs:
These have multiple intakes throughout the year. Applications for summer schools typically open in early spring.
Eligibility varies depending on the program and level of study (undergraduate, postgraduate, or doctoral). Below are the general requirements:
Academic Requirements:
High School Diploma (or Equivalent):
For UK students: A-levels, Highers, or equivalent qualifications.
For international students: High school qualifications equivalent to UK standards (e.g., IB Diploma, Advanced Placement).
Age Requirements:
Most undergraduate programs require applicants to be 18 years or older by the start of the program.
Program-Specific Requirements:
Auditions:
All undergraduate applicants must audition. Auditions are program-specific and may include:
Music: Performance pieces, sight-reading, and music theory.
Drama: Prepared monologues, improvisation, and group workshops.
Dance (Modern Ballet): Ballet class and contemporary movement exercises.
Film/Production: Portfolio of work or examples of past creative projects.
English Language Proficiency:
For non-native English speakers, proof of proficiency is required (e.g., IELTS 6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0).
Academic Requirements:
Bachelor’s Degree (or Equivalent):
A first-class or upper-second-class honors degree (2:1 or equivalent) in a relevant field.
Equivalent professional experience may also be considered for some programs.
Program-Specific Requirements:
Auditions or Portfolios:
For performance-based programs (e.g., MMus, MA Acting), auditions are required.
For filmmaking or production-based programs, portfolios or project proposals may be required.
Personal Statement or Research Proposal:
A clear statement of artistic vision and goals is required for most postgraduate programs.
English Language Proficiency:
Non-native English speakers must demonstrate proficiency with scores such as:
IELTS Academic: Minimum 6.5 overall (with no band below 6.0).
Relevant Professional Experience:
Some postgraduate programs (e.g., MA Classical and Contemporary Text, MFA) may require significant professional experience in addition to academic qualifications.
Academic Requirements:
A Master’s Degree in a relevant field or substantial equivalent professional experience.
Program-Specific Requirements:
Research Proposal:
Applicants must submit a detailed proposal outlining their intended research area.
For the DPerf program, the proposal should focus on practice-led research.
Interview:
Applicants may be invited for an interview to discuss their research interests.
English Language Proficiency:
IELTS Academic: Minimum 7.0 overall (with no component below 6.5).
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Award Amount |
Application Process |
Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
RCS Scholarships |
Open to all undergraduate and postgraduate students based on artistic merit and audition performance. |
Partial tuition fee coverage or a stipend (amounts vary). |
Automatically considered during application. |
Offered based on exceptional talent. |
|
Royal Conservatoire Trust Scholarships |
All students (UK/EU and International) with significant talent and/or financial need. |
Partial funding (amount varies). |
Automatically considered after auditions. |
Awards depend on available funding. |
|
Leverhulme Trust Arts Scholarships |
Postgraduate students (all disciplines) with outstanding talent. |
Up to $7,000 USD per year. |
No separate application required; assessed automatically. |
Funded by the Leverhulme Trust. |
|
ABRSM Scholarships |
BMus and MMus (Music) students with exceptional performance at auditions. |
Covers tuition fees (fully or partially). |
Automatically considered for music programs. |
Supported by the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music. |
|
Commonwealth Scholarships |
Students from Commonwealth countries (postgraduate only). |
Full or partial funding. |
Apply via Commonwealth Scholarship Commission. |
External scholarship; competitive process. |
|
Chevening Scholarships |
International postgraduate students from eligible countries. |
Full tuition and living expenses. |
Apply directly via Chevening website. |
External UK government-funded scholarship. |
|
Scotland Saltire Scholarships |
Postgraduate students from specific countries (e.g., USA, Canada, India, China). |
Up to $10,000 USD towards tuition fees. |
Apply directly via the Saltire Scholarships website. |
Must commit to promoting Scotland internationally. |
|
RCS Hardship Fund |
All students (UK/EU/International) facing unexpected financial hardship. |
(one-time payment). |
Application required after enrollment. |
Emergency financial assistance. |
|
George and Joy Hutcheson Awards |
Music students with outstanding performance. |
Partial tuition fee coverage. |
Automatically considered during auditions. |
Limited to specific music disciplines. |
|
Trust and Foundation Scholarships |
Students (various disciplines) based on talent and need. |
depending on funding. |
Automatically considered after audition. |
Awarded via donations from external trusts. |
|
UK Government Postgraduate Loans |
Postgraduate students (UK/EU only). |
Up to $14,000 USD for tuition. |
Apply through Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS). |
Not available for international students. |
Accommodation Name |
Type |
Facilities |
Cost per Week (USD) |
Cost per Year (USD) |
Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Base Glasgow (RCS Partner) |
Purpose-Built Student Accommodation |
- En-suite rooms with shared kitchens |
$180 - $250 |
$7,000 - $12,000 |
Closest accommodation to RCS; approximately a 5-minute walk from campus. |
|
Shared Apartments |
Private Rental |
- Shared kitchens and bathrooms |
$150 - $200 |
$6,000 - $9,000 |
Ideal for students seeking more independent living arrangements. |
|
Studio Flats |
Private Rental |
- Self-contained with private kitchen and bathroom |
$200 - $300 |
$8,000 - $12,000 |
Suitable for students preferring privacy. |
|
Host Families |
Homestay Accommodation |
- Meals included (optional) |
$150 - $220 |
$6,000 - $9,000 |
Offers a chance to experience Scottish culture and live with a local family. |
|
Student Villages |
Large Residential Complexes |
- Shared or en-suite rooms |
$170 - $250 |
$7,000 - $10,000 |
Popular choice for students across Glasgow, located 15-30 minutes from RCS. |
The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland campus is a world-class facility designed to meet the needs of performing arts students. Below are key features:
Facility |
Description |
|---|---|
|
Performance Venues |
Includes multiple theaters and studios such as the New Athenaeum Theatre, Alexander Gibson Opera Studio, and Chandler Studio Theatre for student performances and training. |
|
Rehearsal Rooms |
Over 90 practice rooms for music, drama, and dance, equipped with pianos, mirrors, and state-of-the-art acoustics. |
|
Recording Studios |
Professional-level studios for sound recording and music production. |
|
Production Spaces |
Spaces for technical theater, production arts, and design, including costume workshops and set-building areas. |
|
Whittaker Library |
One of the UK's most extensive performing arts libraries with resources for music, drama, dance, and film. |
|
Student Common Areas |
Relaxation spaces for students to socialize, collaborate, or study. |
|
Café Bar and Dining Areas |
On-campus café offering affordable meals and snacks for students. |
Feature |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Booking for Base Glasgow |
Students can apply for accommodation at Base Glasgow through RCS’s accommodation services. |
|
Utility Bills |
Included in most managed accommodations (Base Glasgow, student villages), but not always in private rentals. |
|
Deposit |
A security deposit of around $200 - $400 is typically required to secure a room. |
|
Proximity to RCS |
Most accommodation options (Base Glasgow, shared apartments) are within a 5-15 minute walk of the RCS campus. |
|
Short-Term Stay Options |
Temporary accommodation is available for international students arriving early to settle in. |
Collaborative Learning Environment:
RCS fosters interdisciplinary collaboration. Students in different programs—music, drama, dance, film, and production—work together on joint performances, projects, and productions.
The focus is on hands-on, practical training, with students participating in live performances, rehearsals, recordings, and workshops.
Performance Opportunities:
Students have frequent opportunities to perform in professional-standard venues such as:
New Athenaeum Theatre
Alexander Gibson Opera Studio
Chandler Studio Theatre
Ledger Recital Room
Regular public performances, festivals, and concerts are organized, offering students exposure and real-world experience.
World-Class Facilities:
Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including over 90 practice rooms, recording studios, rehearsal spaces, and fully equipped production workshops.
Support from Faculty:
RCS faculty are active industry professionals—actors, musicians, dancers, filmmakers, and producers—who mentor students in their professional and academic growth.
Student-Led Events:
The Students’ Union (RCSSU) organizes a variety of events, including:
Pub quizzes
Open mic nights
Themed parties
Networking opportunities with industry professionals
Cultural Scene in Glasgow:
Glasgow, a UNESCO City of Music, offers a vibrant arts and cultural scene. Students can explore:
Live music venues (e.g., Barrowland Ballroom, King Tut's Wah Wah Hut)
Theatres (e.g., The Citizens Theatre, Tron Theatre)
Art galleries and museums (e.g., Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum)
The city also hosts numerous festivals, including:
Celtic Connections (folk and traditional music)
Glasgow International Comedy Festival
Glasgow Film Festival
The RCSSU supports a range of student clubs and societies, allowing students to pursue interests outside their studies:
Drama and Musical Theatre Societies: Opportunities to engage in performances outside of formal coursework.
Music Ensembles: Jazz bands, orchestras, choirs, and more.
Sports and Fitness: While RCS does not have its own sports facilities, students can join local gyms or sports clubs in Glasgow.
Social and Cultural Clubs: Including film societies, LGBTQ+ groups, and international student networks.
RCS offers comprehensive student support services to ensure students thrive both academically and personally:
Academic Support:
Whittaker Library: One of the largest performing arts libraries in the UK, offering an extensive collection of scores, books, recordings, and digital resources.
Learning Support: Assistance with study techniques, research, and time management.
Masterclasses and Workshops: Regular sessions with industry professionals, including visiting artists and companies.
Health and Wellbeing:
Counseling Services: Free and confidential counseling to support mental health and well-being.
Disability Support: Assistance for students with disabilities or learning differences.
Healthy Conservatoire Network: Promotes physical and mental wellness for performing artists.
International Student Support:
Help with visas, adjusting to life in Scotland, and cultural integration.
Pre-arrival orientation sessions and welcome events specifically designed for international students.
Living in Glasgow:
Glasgow is one of the UK’s most affordable cities for students, offering low-cost housing, food, and entertainment.
Students often live at Base Glasgow (partner accommodation) or in private housing nearby.
Student Discounts:
Students enjoy discounts on public transport, cinemas, theaters, and more with their Student ID card or TOTUM card.
Industry Connections:
RCS collaborates with leading arts organizations such as:
BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra
Scottish Ballet
Scottish Opera
National Theatre of Scotland
These partnerships provide students with internships, placements, and mentorship opportunities.
Career Support:
RCS offers career development workshops, audition preparation, and networking events to help students transition into the professional world.
Alumni networks also provide valuable connections.
RCS has students from over 60 countries, making it a diverse and inclusive environment. The Students’ Union organizes international cultural events, including:
Festivals celebrating diversity.
Social events tailored to help international students connect and settle in.
RCS has strong collaborations with some of the world’s leading arts organizations, providing students with professional opportunities and exposure. Key partners include:
Scottish Ballet
Scottish Opera
BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra
National Theatre of Scotland
Royal Scottish National Orchestra (RSNO)
Through these partnerships, students gain access to:
Professional training placements (e.g., working on productions, shadowing professionals).
Opportunities to perform alongside professionals in real-world settings.
Networking events with industry leaders and alumni.
RCS provides a variety of career-focused initiatives to prepare students for professional life:
Initiative |
Description |
|---|---|
|
Performance Opportunities |
Students regularly perform in public productions, concerts, and recitals to build their portfolios and experience. |
|
Professional Mentorship |
Industry mentors provide guidance to students, including alumni who have established successful careers globally. |
|
Audition Preparation |
Workshops and masterclasses help students develop the skills needed to succeed in auditions. |
|
Showcase Performances |
Drama and musical theatre students participate in annual showcases attended by agents, casting directors, and producers. |
|
Collaborative Projects |
Interdisciplinary projects give students hands-on experience in team-based, real-world creative work. |
|
Workshops and Masterclasses |
Guest artists and industry professionals regularly conduct sessions on performance, technical skills, and industry trends. |
Although "placements" are not mandatory for all programs, RCS integrates opportunities for students to work with industry professionals through internships, apprenticeships, and professional engagements:
Orchestral Training: Students in the MMus Orchestral Performance program collaborate with organizations like the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra or RSNO, gaining experience in live orchestral settings.
Opera Placements: Vocalists in the opera programs work closely with Scottish Opera on professional productions.
Community and Educational Work: Music students often work with schools and community organizations as part of outreach and engagement programs.
Professional Productions: Students collaborate with companies like the National Theatre of Scotland and Scottish Youth Theatre.
Showcase Events: Final-year drama and musical theatre students perform in showcases attended by agents and casting directors, often leading to immediate employment opportunities.
Modern Ballet Students: Students in the BA Modern Ballet program train and perform with Scottish Ballet, gaining professional-level experience.
Filmmaking Students: Work on professional film sets and participate in festivals such as the Glasgow Film Festival.
Production Students: Collaborate with major theater productions and concerts, gaining experience in stage management, lighting, and set design.
RCS graduates are highly employable and known for their success in various fields of the performing arts. Many go on to secure roles in major productions, companies, and organizations around the world.
Acting Alumni:
James McAvoy (X-Men, Atonement).
Richard Madden (Game of Thrones, The Bodyguard).
Sam Heughan (Outlander).
Music Alumni:
Members of leading orchestras like the London Symphony Orchestra and Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.
Internationally renowned composers and soloists such as Nicola Benedetti.
Production Alumni:
Stage managers, lighting designers, and sound engineers for major West End and Broadway productions.
Film Alumni:
Filmmakers whose work has been featured at prestigious festivals like the Cannes Film Festival.
RCS reports that over 90% of graduates are employed or engaged in further study within 15 months of graduation (Graduate Outcomes Survey).
RCS maintains a strong alumni network to help students transition into the professional world:
RCS Alumni Network: Provides ongoing opportunities for collaboration, mentorship, and networking.
Career Services for Alumni: Graduates can access RCS career services for assistance with auditions, job searches, and professional development.
Graduates from RCS secure roles in prestigious organizations and productions globally. Below are examples of where RCS alumni work:
Music Graduates:
BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra
London Symphony Orchestra
Royal Opera House
National Symphony Orchestra
Drama Graduates:
Broadway and West End productions
Royal Shakespeare Company
National Theatre of Scotland
Major TV and film productions (e.g., Game of Thrones, Outlander, The Crown).
Production and Film Graduates:
Film festivals (e.g., Cannes, Sundance)
Major theater companies as stage managers, designers, and technicians
Television and film production companies.
RCS provides ongoing career support for current students and alumni through:
Service |
Details |
|---|---|
|
RCS Careers Team |
Personalized guidance on CV writing, networking, and career planning. |
|
Job Opportunities |
Regular updates on audition notices, internships, and job vacancies. |
|
Professional Development |
Access to workshops and training sessions even after graduation. |
|
Networking Opportunities |
Events and showcases where students meet casting agents, directors, and producers. |
RCS equips students with the entrepreneurial skills necessary to succeed as freelancers or start their own ventures:
Self-Promotion Skills: Students learn how to market themselves effectively through personal branding and digital portfolios.
Funding Support: Guidance on applying for arts funding and grants.
Freelance Skills: Workshops on managing freelance careers in the arts.
RCS has exchange programs and partnerships with other prestigious conservatoires worldwide.
Students and alumni frequently work on international projects and festivals, making connections across the globe.
Audition-Based Admission:
Admission to RCS is heavily based on auditions, which are rigorous and tailored to each discipline. Only students with exceptional talent, creativity, and potential are admitted.
For programs such as Acting and Musical Theatre, thousands of applicants audition annually, but only a small number of places are available.
Limited Class Sizes:
RCS maintains small class sizes to ensure high-quality, personalized training. For example:
BA Acting admits around 20 students per year.
BA Musical Theatre admits around 20-25 students per year.
BA Modern Ballet admits around 15-20 students per year.
Music programs vary, but instrumental/vocal disciplines often accept a small number of students to ensure one-on-one mentorship.
Program-Specific Competition:
Drama and Musical Theatre Programs: Extremely competitive, with applicants from around the world.
Music Programs: Acceptance depends not only on auditions but also on the balance of instruments/voices needed each year. For example, RCS may accept only a limited number of violinists, pianists, or sopranos depending on the program's needs.
Film and Production Programs: Require portfolios in addition to interviews, and selection is based on creative potential and technical skill.
Program |
Estimated Acceptance Rate |
Notes |
|---|---|---|
|
BA Acting |
~5-10% |
One of the most competitive programs; thousands of applicants for fewer than 20 places. |
|
BA Musical Theatre |
~5-10% |
Highly competitive due to demand and small intake size. |
|
BA Modern Ballet |
~10-15% |
Applicants must audition and demonstrate exceptional technical and artistic ability. |
|
BMus (Bachelor of Music) |
~10-20% |
Acceptance varies by instrument and specialization; classical disciplines are especially competitive. |
|
Film (BA Filmmaking) |
~15-20% |
Portfolio-based program; limited spaces available each year. |
|
Postgraduate Programs (MMus, MA, MFA) |
~15-20% |
Competitive but slightly higher acceptance rate compared to undergraduate programs. |
Royal Conservatoire of Scotland
100 Renfrew Street,
Glasgow,
G2 3DB,
United Kingdom
