New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts (NYCDA) : Overview, Courses, Scholarships & Rankings
About New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts
Set in the heart of Chelsea, the New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts is known for screen-centered training that leans into camera technique, truthful storytelling, voice and movement, and the art of the audition. Studios and on-camera spaces give students room to rehearse, record, and refine. Academic advising, coaching, and career guidance are part of the day-to-day support, with resources that help students manage both craft and schedule.
Campus life feels tight knit and hands on. Scene nights, student film collaborations, and low-key readings pop up alongside trips to nearby theaters, galleries, the High Line, and riverside parks. The culture is focused, collaborative, and a little no-nonsense in that New York way. Career prep emphasizes set etiquette, professional materials, and real-world practice, and the school has a reputation for capstone showcases that build connections. The neighborhood adds auditions, indie projects, and constant creative energy right outside the door.
Key Institutional Details
Contact & Profile
Academic & Institutional
Degree Programs & Career Salary Prospects
Explore degree programs offered at New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts (NYCDA) with detailed career prospects, starting salary ranges, and job opportunities in New York. See what you can do with your degree and expected earnings after graduation.
Arts (4)
Fine Arts, Design Studies and Creative Performance
50.0506
Acting.
(Cert<1y, Cert<2y)
Graduate Career Earnings in New York
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | New York Avg | NY vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25-1121 | Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary | $102,240 | $60,800 | -$41,440 (-40.5%) |
| 27-2011 | Actors | N/A | N/A | N/A |
50.0509
Musical Theatre.
(Cert<2y)
Graduate Career Earnings in New York
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | New York Avg | NY vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25-1121 | Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary | $102,240 | $60,800 | -$41,440 (-40.5%) |
| 27-2011 | Actors | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| 27-2012 | Producers and Directors | $114,280 | $181,530 | +$67,250 (+58.8%) |
| 27-2031 | Dancers | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| 27-2032 | Choreographers | $62,020 | $109,750 | +$47,730 (+77%) |
| 27-2041 | Music Directors and Composers | $84,230 | $109,490 | +$25,260 (+30%) |
| 27-2042 | Musicians and Singers | N/A | N/A | N/A |
50.0601
Film/Cinema/Media Studies.
(Cert<2y)
Graduate Career Earnings in New York
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | New York Avg | NY vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25-1121 | Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary | $102,240 | $60,800 | -$41,440 (-40.5%) |
| 27-2012 | Producers and Directors | $114,280 | $181,530 | +$67,250 (+58.8%) |
Tuition, Fees & Estimated Costs
Overview of tuition rates, housing, and other annual education expenses for undergraduate and graduate students
Financial Aid & Student Support
Summary of scholarships, grants, student loans, and financial aid statistics for undergraduate students
Student Success Metrics
Graduation rates and post-graduation earnings to help assess student outcomes and long-term value of education.
Loan Burden & Repayment Outcomes
Breakdown of loan repayment rates and student debt levels by income and dependency status.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts (NYCDA)
How much does it cost to attend New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts (NYCDA)?
The annual tuition at New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts (NYCDA) is $37,200 for in-state students. When including room and board, books, and other expenses, the total estimated cost is approximately $37,500 for in-state students. Additional costs include room and board $22,400 (off-campus) and books and supplies $300.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2022-2023 academic year. Tuition and cost estimates are approximate and may not include all fees, personal expenses, or transportation costs.
What academic programs and degree levels does New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts offer?
New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts (NYCDA) offers 6 academic programs across 1 major fields of study, with available degree levels: Certificate (1-2 yrs), Associate's.
Most popular program areas include:
- Fine Arts, Design Studies and Creative Performance (4 programs)
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2022-2023 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated, not all offered programs.
What is the acceptance rate for New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts?
New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts (NYCDA) has an 82.3% acceptance rate and a 22% yield rate, making it moderately selective.
Admission statistics breakdown:
- Total applicants: 469
- Students admitted: 386
- Students enrolled: 85
Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Admission statistics may vary by program and application cycle.
What financial aid and scholarships are available at New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts?
New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts (NYCDA) provides financial aid to 52% of first-time, full-time students, with average grants of $16,060 and average loans of $12,384.
Average financial aid amounts by type:
- Pell grants: $5,700
- State/Local grants: $3,041
- Institutional grants: $13,095
- Federal loans: $6,199
The university supports 160 students with grants and 125 students with loans annually.
Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Financial aid amounts and percentages may vary by program, enrollment status, and individual circumstances.
What is the average salary for New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts graduates?
New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts (NYCDA) graduates earn a median salary of $21,341 after 6 years and $26,921 after 10 years.
The salary range 10 years after graduation spans from $10,473 (25th percentile) to $46,698 (75th percentile).
Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Salary data reflects graduates who received federal financial aid (approximately 60% of all graduates). Actual earnings may vary significantly based on program, location, and individual circumstances.
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