Royal Central School of Speech & Drama

London  United Kingdom

The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama is a world-renowned institution for training and research in the performing arts. As part of the University of London, Central offers a wide range of MA and MFA courses in acting, applied theatre, producing, writing, movement, voice, scenography, and more. With a strong emphasis on specialist, conservatoire-style training, our courses combine rigorous practical work with critical and professional development. Students benefit from industry-leading tutors, close-knit cohorts, and strong links to the UK and international creative industries. Central’s graduates go on to become actors, directors, producers, educators, movement coaches, voice specialists, and cultural leaders working across theatre, film, television, and beyond.

Why study at Royal Central School of Speech & Drama?

Specialist postgraduate training in acting, performance, producing, applied theatre, writing, movement, voice, and design.

Outstanding facilities including theatres, studios, workshops, and a specialist library, plus access to University of London resources.

Conservatoire-style training with small cohorts, individual attention, and a strong focus on practical, collaborative work.

Taught by leading industry professionals with strong connections to theatre, film, television, and the wider creative industries.

Alumni include BAFTA, Olivier, and Academy Award winners working across the UK and international creative sectors.

350

postgraduate students

14

courses

2nd

in the UK in the Complete University Guide's 2025 Arts, Drama & Music League Table

London  United Kingdom

main campus

Creative Arts & Design (9)

About Royal Central School of Speech & Drama

The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama (otherwise known as Central) is a world-leading institution dedicated to the advanced training and research of the performing arts. Founded in 1906, Central’s mission is to inspire, educate, and transform individuals and communities through performance, practice, and innovation. As a member of the University of London, Central offers specialist postgraduate programmes that combine rigorous academic study with practical, industry-focused training across a wide range of disciplines, including acting, applied theatre, producing, writing, movement, voice, scenography, and design.

At the heart of Central’s values is a commitment to creativity, collaboration, and excellence. We foster an inclusive, supportive environment where diverse voices and perspectives are not only welcomed but essential to artistic and educational growth. We aim to develop graduates who are not only highly skilled but also socially engaged and capable of shaping the future of the creative industries.

Teaching at Central is led by experienced professionals and internationally recognised practitioners, ensuring that students are connected to current industry practice and global networks. The school is home to state-of-the-art facilities, including theatres, studios, workshops, and a specialist library, and students also benefit from access to University of London resources.

With a reputation for producing bold, socially conscious work, Central continues to champion innovation and leadership in performance, education, and cultural change. Our alumni include some of the most influential names in theatre, film, and television, demonstrating the lasting impact of a Central education on the global stage.



The Student Community Central is creative, collaborative, and close-knit. With a student population of around 1,000, individuals are known by name and supported to develop their unique voice and practice. Students come from across the UK and around the world, bringing a diverse range of experiences and perspectives that enrich both academic and social life.

On campus, students work closely with peers across different courses, creating a dynamic and interdisciplinary atmosphere. From rehearsals and productions to research and reflection, there’s a strong sense of shared purpose and creative energy. Central’s students are passionate about the arts, socially aware, and eager to make an impact through performance and storytelling.

Our campus is based in quiet leafy Hampstead, opposite Swiss Cottage tube station and just three short stops from central London. Students therefore have easy access to world-class theatres, galleries, festivals, and cultural organisations and yet can also enjoy nearby green spaces such as Primrose Hill, Regent's Park and Hampstead Heath. As part of the University of London, we also allocation of halls close by and students can use their library and other services in central London.

Our Students’ Union play an active role in supporting wellbeing, representation, and student-led events, from social meetups and open mic nights to creative collaborations and cultural celebrations. Whether you're commuting or living nearby, Central’s campus is a welcoming home base in one of the world’s most exciting cities.



All applications for our postgraduate courses are made directly to us. Please visit the course page on our website and click on 'Apply'.

None of our postgraduate courses are offered online. However, we do have online short courses.

Some of our courses are offered part-time over two years. Check each individual course page.

Our postgraduate courses are generally one year full time. If you are studying an MFA then it will be two years. Part-time courses are also spread over two years.

We do have some scholarships and bursaries. These can be found on our website here.


Register your interest with Royal Central School of Speech & Drama


Main campus

Royal Central School of Speech & Drama

London

United Kingdom