What Degree Do I Need to Become an Actor?

It is not necessary to have a degree to be an actor.

Earning a degree is possible for an aspiring actor, but it is not necessary. Some actors have associate's, bachelor's and masters degree's, but many have no degree at all. However, going to acting school might open opportunities for networking.

Types

Schools offer associate's and bachelor's degrees in the theater arts. Serious students can also earn a Master of Fine Arts. Some great actors have earned degrees, including Kelsey Grammer, William Hurt, Kevin Spacey, Paul Newman, Meryl Streep and Sigourney Weaver. There are also those who are successful without degrees. Students should learn practical skills for negotiating the industry as well as acting skills.

Benefits

An acting degree is beneficial because of the experience and contacts a student acquires at school. If you choose a school carefully, it's possible to find one with connections to Hollywood or New York. This allows you better exposure to people who can help you find jobs. Additionally, a degree gives you skills and experience that will help you perform better in auditions and hone acting skills.

Considerations

Actors often have an uncertain working life. It is difficult to find work for all but the most successful actors. Many actors hold jobs in other fields. Hollywood and New York productions hire only a small percentage of working actors. More of them work in advertising agencies, regional theater companies, local television studios, for companies making training films, in night clubs and at local theaters.

References

• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Actors, Producers and Directors
• The Actor Cast Blog: Should You Pursue an Acting Degree?