National Conservatory Dramatic Arts 2025

The National Conservatory of Dramatic Arts is an accredited actor-training school in Washington, DC, that helps prepare students for careers in theater, TV, and film. The Conservatory offers a two-year, intensive, actor-training programs with 1,800 hours of instruction, practice, and rehearsal. Becoming a successful actor requires an intensive period of training, just as acquiring any professional skill does. The Conservatory’s two-year, intensive, actor-training program provides students with 1,800 hours of instruction, practice, and rehearsal in 16 months. Students who continue into the third-year, advanced actor-training program obtain another 900 hours of training. Because semesters typically run back to back, students can usually complete the two-year program in 16 months; and three year of study in 24 months. NCDA’s instructors are all working actors, directors, and playwrights who are actively employed in the DC-area acting community. It’s a requirement for faculty members to be actively working onstage or in film or video in order to serve as a Conservatory instructor. Graduates enter the job market with a strong foundation in the craft of acting, the business savvy to be successful in a competitive market, and a network of professional contacts. More than 90% of graduates find work as actors within six months after graduation. This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website.