I am thinking of going back to college and getting a degree in theater. My state ( NJ ) offers free tuition via community college so money is luckily not an issue if I go that route (AFA). My concern is if I need to transfer to get my BFA. I am looking at college programs, and I think little if no credits would be applied, thus starting from scratch. I am wondering where to start and which route is the most optimal for me,
Acting : AFA Versus BFA in theater by Christopher Pornovets
AFA Versus BFA in theater
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Hi Christopher Pornovets - what a great question AND a fantastic opportunity you have to go to college for your passions! I personally don't have a theater degree, so I'm coming in here to cheer you on. From a practical perspective - I would take advantage of the free tuition for the AMA, get as much stage experience as possible and find a school that will accept your credits. Many community colleges are "feeder schools" schools for larger state universities - find the top programs you want to go to, and then talk to the admissions office. You may be able to enroll as a junior with your credits from a cc.
So excited for you to go down this route!
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Hey Christopher Pornovets what an exciting time for you! I am a longtime actor, but I will be responding also as a mother who starts college next year. So we are in the throes of college decisions, most of which are driven by $$$. If you want to go to college and can go for FREE - DO IT. The question of "starting from scratch" brings up more questions: What do you ultimately want to accomplish? What do you want to get out of your college experience?
I have a BA in Theater, I understand the importance of wanting to go to college and get a degree. There is no "optimal route' to anywhere in this industry, especially not with regards to acting. But, college is not needed to be a working actor. Training - YES, college - NO. I had to be real with my child because college is EXPENSIVE and again, not necessary to work in the industry.
You need to know for yourself WHY college, no one can answer that for you. If you want the full blown college experience or if you really want to further your education long term, research where you may go next and see what can be transferred. Find other students who have been in similar situations and see what they did. If you just want to go to school to take acting lessons, go for free and get out in the world and get to work.
Good luck!1