The Juilliard School's mission is "to provide the highest caliber of artistic education for gifted musicians, dancers, and actors from around the world, so that they may achieve their fullest potential as artists, leaders, and global citizens." Juilliard only accepts 7 percent of its applicants. It is one of the most respected musical and dramatic institutions in the world. Located in the heart of New York City, the Juilliard School offers bachelor and master's degrees in the areas of dance, drama, music and liberal arts. Its notable alumni include Christopher Durang, Nina Simone, Robin Williams and Miles Davis.
Founded in 1945 by Lawrence Berk, Berklee College of Music is located in Boston, Massachusetts. It is the largest college specializing in contemporary music in the world. With the belief that students best prepare and perform when they practice and study contemporary music, Berklee prides itself on evolving with the music of the times as well as the music industry. Its student body is made up of musicians from over 70 countries around the world. Berklee's most distinguished alumni include greats such as Melissa Etheridge, Quincy Jones and Paula Cole.
The Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts is world-renowned for its specialty in the dramatic arts. Founded in 1904, RADA is located in London, England. Students at RADA study direction, design, stage management, technical stagecraft and acting. Associated with the Conservatoire for Dance and Drama, The Royal Academy's professional-standard student productions are attended by agents, managers, casting directors and industry associates from all over the world. It has many distinguished alumni including Vivien Leigh, Anthony Hopkins and Uta Hagen.
The Yale School of Art is an Ivy League school, and one of the world's most prestigious art institutions. Located in New Haven, Connecticut, the Yale School of Art is "devoted not only to the refinement of the visual skills, but to the cultivation of the mind." Specializing in photography, painting, sculpture and graphic design, Yale's famous alumni include Richard Serra, Chuck Close and Matthew Barney. Yale School of Art admits only about 119 students a year, and has a six-to-one student-teacher ratio.