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What is a Conservatory School?
By
Cece Gilmore
Cece Gilmore is a Content Writer at Scholarships360. Cece earned her undergraduate degree in Journalism and Mass Communications from Arizona State University. While at ASU, she was the education editor as well as a published staff reporter at Downtown Devil. Cece was also the co-host of her own radio show on Blaze Radio ASU.
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Cari Schultz is an Educational Review Board Advisor at Scholarships360, where she reviews content featured on the site. For over 20 years, Cari has worked in college admissions (Baldwin Wallace University, The Ohio State University, University of Kentucky) and as a college counselor (Columbus School for Girls).
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Maria Geiger is Director of Content at Scholarships360. She is a former online educational technology instructor and adjunct writing instructor. In addition to education reform, Maria’s interests include viewpoint diversity, blended/flipped learning, digital communication, and integrating media/web tools into the curriculum to better facilitate student engagement. Maria earned both a B.A. and an M.A. in English Literature from Monmouth University, an M. Ed. in Education from Monmouth University, and a Virtual Online Teaching Certificate (VOLT) from the University of Pennsylvania.
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Calling all aspiring artists and virtuosos! A conservatory school offers students training and immersive programs in their respective art forms. If this intrigues your artistic senses, get ready to step into a symphony of possibilities known as the “conservatory school.” Read more below about what a conservatory school is, the typical admissions requirements, and the types of degrees awarded. Take a look at the “conservatory vs. university” section to help you find your ideal school!
What is a conservatory school?
A conservatory school is an institution that provides training and education in the arts. Conservatory schools focus on nurturing students’ artistic talents and skills in disciplines such as music, dance, theater, or film. Conservatory schools offer a comprehensive curriculum that integrates artistic training with academic studies. These schools often prioritize practical training, performance opportunities, and artistic exploration to prepare students for careers in the arts.
What are the typical admission requirements for a conservatory school?
Admission requirements vary between conservatory schools, but typically include an application, audition or portfolio submission, academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and an interview. Many conservatory schools do not require standardized testing. Rather, the focus of their admission process is on auditions and portfolios, so make sure you are ready to show off your talents!
Degrees from a conservatory school
Conservatory schools typically offer diploma or certificate programs rather than traditional degrees such as bachelor’s or master’s degrees. Conservatory programs primarily focus on training and artistic development rather than a comprehensive academic course load.
However, some conservatory schools may have affiliations with universities or colleges which allows students to earn degrees in addition to their conservatory training. For example, the Juilliard School offers a masters in music through their Vocal Arts Department. At the undergraduate level, the Conservatory of Music at Baldwin Wallace University offers three Bachelor of Music degrees: Bachelor of Music – Performance, Bachelor of Music, Bachelor of Music Education.
Conservatory schools vs universities
Below, we list a few of the main focus points of both conservatories and universities so that you can get a quick overview of which might be best suited for your artistic endeavors. Keep in mind that some conservatory schools are affiliated with universities or colleges and offer joint programs. However, not all conservatory schools are affiliated with a university and therefore operate independently.
Conservatory schools
Specialized focus
Conservatory schools primarily focus on arts education and offer specialized training in artistic disciplines. The curriculum is designed to provide intensive and immersive experiences in the chosen art form.
Performance
Conservatory schools prioritize training and performance opportunities. This allows students to receive hands-on experiences to develop their artistic skills and prepare them for a career in the arts.
Smaller class sizes
Conservatory schools typically have smaller class sizes which allow for more personalized attention and instruction. This allows faculty to closely mentor students’ artistic development.
Limited academic options
While conservatory schools do provide some academic courses, they primarily focus on the arts. Therefore, academic subjects are usually limited to core requirements with less emphasis on a broad range of subjects.
Universities
Academic options
Universities offer a wide variety of academic options such as arts, sciences, humanities, business, and much more. This allows students to explore various fields of study.
Balanced curriculum
Universities offer a more balanced curriculum that is a combination of academic subjects and art classes. Students have the opportunity to pursue majors or minors in the arts while also taking courses that interest them.
Extensive resources
Universities often have extensive resources such as libraries, research facilities, and diverse extracurricular activities.
Frequently asked questions about conservatory schools
How early can students enroll in a conservatory school?
Do conservatory schools offer academic courses in addition to art courses?
How are conservatory schools funded?
Can I pursue multiple art programs at a conservatory school?
Are conservatory schools only for students planning to pursue a career in the arts?
Are conservatory schools only for extremely talented students?
Do conservatory schools offer scholarships?
