Conservatory vs. Traditional University: Which Is Right for You?

Choosing between a conservatory and a traditional university is a pivotal decision for aspiring artists. Conservatories offer intensive, specialized training in a specific art form, immersing students in a dedicated artistic community. Universities provide a broader education with a performing arts major, allowing more exploration of diverse academic interests.

Benefits of attending a conservatory

Unlike traditional colleges or universities, a conservatory is dedicated solely to studying and training music, dance, theater, or other performing arts. Attending these institutions allows you to laser-focus on your specific art while receiving intensive training and having abundant performance opportunities to help you gain experience and showcase your talents.

Smaller class sizes facilitate personalized attention, fostering strong connections between students and faculty. If you love environments devoted to your art, a conservatory might be the perfect place to nurture your artistic growth and prepare you for a professional career.

Benefits of attending university

Universities offer a more comprehensive approach to arts education, blending artistic training with a broader academic experience. You can explore more diverse subjects while still pursuing your passion for the performing arts. With access to extensive resources, including libraries, research facilities, and extracurricular activities, you’ll experience a well-rounded environment perfect for personal and artistic development.

Unlike conservatories, universities offer a wide variety of majors and minors, enabling you to combine the study of your chosen performing art with other academic interests. This flexibility allows you to develop a well-rounded skill set and explore different career paths.

The best of both worlds

Hybrid options, like conservatories within universities, blend the best of both worlds, offering specialized training combined with a broader academic experience. 

Dr. Travis J. Cross, Professor of Music at UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music and former music department chair, said, “My sense is that conservatory training programs and performance programs within university music schools are more alike today than they are different — and probably more alike than they have been in the past. In the broadest stereotype, conservatories are more focused on direct training and preparation of performers, and university programs include a broader academic foundation, both musically and in areas outside of music. But no conservatory wishes to produce graduates who are not educated musicians or intellectually curious people, and no university program wishes to hold students to anything but the highest standards of performance.”

Understanding your degree options

The type of degree you pursue — as well as your own aspirations, learning style, and career goals — will influence the path you choose. For music students, for example, a Bachelor of Music (B.M.) is the traditional conservatory path, emphasizing intensive music study with a foundation in the liberal arts. 

A Bachelor of Arts in Music (B.A.) offers a broader education, balancing music courses with other academic subjects. Some institutions offer dual degree programs combining music with another field of study. A B.A. provides more flexibility if you have multiple interests or aren’t sure about your career path.

Want more tips and insights? Check out our full Guide to Performing & Visual Arts here.