The North Carolina School of the Arts is the University of North Carolina’s conservatory for the arts, dedicated entirely to the professional training of students possessing exceptional talents in the performing, visual and moving image arts. Students enter NCSA when they are ready for focused, intense professional development at the baccalaureate level and in select programs at the master’s and high school levels in its schools of Dance, Design and Production, Drama, Filmmaking, and Music.

Committed to the idea that art combines craft, imagination, passion and intellect, the faculty work with students in a residential setting to create an educational community that is intimate, demanding and performance-centered. Learning is enriched by access to an academic program responsive to a conservatory curriculum; research and creative opportunities in the arts; student life programs and support; dedicated staff; outstanding facilities; community service activities; guest artists and teachers; and distinguished alumni. Students emerge transformed, poised to become leaders and creators in their chosen fields.

Founded by an act of the North Carolina General Assembly to be both an educational institution and a resource enhancing the cultural life of the State of North Carolina and the region, NCSA offers numerous public performances, both on- and off-campus, community education in the arts, as well as faculty and student lectures and workshops. The School collaborates with educational, cultural, civic, business and other partners to promote the universal importance and innovative impact of the arts to our society.