Exploring the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland: A Haven for Performing Arts Students

If you’re a high school student passionate about the performing arts—or a parent looking for a university that nurtures artistic talent—the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland (RCS) is a name to remember. Located in the heart of Glasgow, RCS is one of the world’s top destinations for students pursuing music, drama, dance, and production arts. With a history dating back to 1847, this prestigious institution has trained some of the finest artists in the industry while offering an intimate and supportive environment for aspiring performers.

A Close-Knit but World-Renowned Institution

With approximately 1,300 students, including 850 undergraduates, RCS maintains a small, community-oriented feel. This size allows for close relationships with faculty, mentorship from industry professionals, and an immersive training experience. Despite its intimate environment, RCS has a global reputation, consistently ranking among the top drama and music schools worldwide. In fact, according to the QS World University Rankings, RCS ranks within the top ten performing arts institutions globally.

The conservatoire is also highly international, with students coming from over 60 countries. This diverse student body fosters a creative and collaborative environment, exposing students to different artistic styles and global perspectives.

A Highly Selective and Rigorous Conservatoire

Admission to RCS is highly competitive, with rigorous auditions and portfolio reviews depending upon the program. Acting, music, and dance students must demonstrate exceptional skill and potential through auditions that often include multiple rounds. Applicants for technical and production programs typically submit portfolios showcasing their previous work. The audition process is known for being intense, and successful applicants have usually received significant prior training in their discipline.

A Diverse Range of Programs

RCS offers an array of music, drama, dance, and production arts programs, ensuring that students can explore and develop their talents in multiple disciplines.

  • Music Programs: These four-year degrees include specializations in orchestral music, jazz, opera, and even traditional Scottish bagpipes. The Alexander Gibson Opera School provides intensive training for aspiring opera singers, while instrumentalists benefit from high-caliber orchestral and chamber music opportunities.
  • Drama and Acting: The drama programs at RCS are world-renowned, offering students professional-level training over three years.
  • Dance: The dance program at RCS is rigorous, preparing students for careers in ballet, contemporary dance, and beyond.
  • Groundbreaking Accessibility: The BA Performance degree for deaf and hard-of-hearing students (typically enrolling eight students every three years) is one of the only programs of its kind in the world. This course allows students to work across departments, collaborating in theatre and performance.

What Makes RCS Unique?

The Only Conservatoire in Scotland

RCS is the only conservatoire in Scotland and one of just a few in the UK, making it a standout institution for students who want a world-class education in an intimate setting. This allows students to benefit from exclusive partnerships with Scotland’s major arts organizations, including the National Theatre of Scotland, Scottish Opera, and the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra.

A Leader in Traditional Scottish Music

RCS is one of the only conservatoires in the world to offer a full program in traditional Scottish music, including bagpipes and folk music. This makes it an excellent choice for students interested in Celtic and folk traditions, which are deeply rooted in Scotland’s cultural identity.

Innovation in Performance Accessibility

RCS is a global leader in making performing arts education accessible. In addition to its BA Performance degree for deaf and hard-of-hearing students, RCS integrates British Sign Language (BSL) into its training and works on innovative ways to make performance accessible to all.

A Strong Focus on Interdisciplinary Collaboration

Unlike some conservatoires that keep disciplines separate, RCS encourages cross-disciplinary collaboration. Actors, dancers, musicians, filmmakers, and production students often work together on original projects, fostering creativity and a real-world experience of working in the arts industry.

A School That Embraces Film and Digital Performance

Many drama and conservatoire programs focus primarily on theatre, but RCS also emphasizes training for film and digital performance. The school has its own in-house filmmaking department, and drama students receive on-camera training to prepare for careers in film and television. This aligns with its alumni success in Hollywood and global entertainment industries.

State-of-the-Art Performance Spaces and Global Opportunities

Students at RCS benefit from incredible performance spaces, including the black box theater, which seats up to 90 people. This space is primarily used for final-year student showcases and workshops, giving performers a chance to refine their craft in an intimate setting before stepping into the professional world. Beyond this, RCS facilities include large concert halls, theatre stages, and dance studios where students perform regularly.

One of the highlights of studying at RCS is the extensive performance opportunities available to students. The school has strong connections with professional theatres, concert venues, and festivals across Scotland and beyond.

  • Glasgow itself is home to a thriving arts scene, including the National Theatre of Scotland, the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, and the Scottish Ballet, offering students opportunities to collaborate with industry professionals.
  • Students frequently perform at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the world’s largest arts festival.
  • International collaborations and exchange programs allow students to gain experience on a global stage, with opportunities to study or perform abroad.

Notable Alumni

RCS has produced some of the finest actors, musicians, and performers, including:

  • James McAvoy (X-Men, Atonement, Split)
  • Richard Madden (Game of Thrones, Rocketman, Cinderella)
  • Ncuti Gatwa (Sex Education, Doctor Who)
  • David Tennant (Doctor Who, Good Omens, Broadchurch)
  • Alan Cumming (Cabaret, The Good Wife, Golden Eye)

If you are looking for a world-class performing arts education in an environment that is both small and highly specialized, RCS could be the perfect fit. Whether you’re a musician, actor, dancer, or technician, RCS offers a rigorous, immersive, and inspiring experience designed to launch students into the professional world.