What’s It Like Studying Musical Theatre at RAM?
When preparing to apply for postgraduate musical theatre programmes in the UK, many students consider the Royal Academy of Music (RAM) as one of their top choices. Renowned for its high intensity and rich resources, RAM’s one-year MA in Musical Theatre is a demanding yet rewarding experience—perfect for students who wish to improve rapidly and transition into professional performers.
While most musical theatre programmes follow a similar structure, each institution tends to emphasise different aspects, which is also reflected in their admissions criteria. Here’s an overview of RAM’s one-year master’s programme to help you better understand this dream institution.
Academic Structure: Three-Term System, Practice-Led Learning
RAM’s master’s course runs from September to June and is divided into three terms over ten months.
- First two terms: Mornings are dedicated to three core classes (typically voice, dance, and acting), and afternoons are reserved for around four hours of rehearsal. This schedule allows students to constantly integrate theory with practice.
- Third term: Focuses entirely on the final production, providing students with full-scale stage experience.
The course is highly practical and outcome-driven—ideal for students who thrive in a clear, goal-oriented environment.
Specialist Training: Voice-Centred, Interdisciplinary Approach
As a music conservatoire, RAM places strong emphasis on vocal training. The curriculum is based on Estill Voice Training and integrates dialect, text work, and character development to support both technical and performative growth.
Students take around 12 core subjects, taught in small groups of 12–15, ensuring high levels of individual attention. Courses span vocal technique, acting (ensemble and text work), improvisation, tap, jazz, and musical theatre repertoire. Many classes are conducted one-on-one or in small groups, tailored to students’ personal needs.
A unique feature at RAM is its Musical Direction department. Musical Direction students often collaborate in classes, giving actors the opportunity to practise real-time musical and performance integration—something not commonly found in other institutions. This reflects RAM’s emphasis on holistic, integrated training.
Rehearsals and Performances: Growth Through the Stage
Every afternoon is dedicated to rehearsal. Each of the first two terms includes a studio-based performance and an end-of-term theatre production. The final term is devoted entirely to a full-scale graduation show.
Students typically participate in at least five productions throughout the year. Balancing this with academic classes and personal development is physically and mentally demanding, but it leads to rapid growth in performance experience and adaptability.
Industry Connections: Seamless Link to the Professional World
One of RAM’s biggest strengths is its strong ties to the industry. Every fortnight, the school hosts masterclasses led by West End directors, actors, and composers. Some sessions are even ticketed public events, resembling professional showcases.
Students also have 2–3 opportunities to work with guest industry professionals, which often leads to networking, agent signings, or even performance invitations while still studying.
In-house competitions in areas like musical theatre acting and poetry reading help students push themselves in real-world scenarios.
The second term culminates in an Agent Showcase, where students perform in front of talent agents—a crucial step toward landing professional auditions. Given RAM’s strong reputation and central London location, agents frequently attend these events, and many students secure contracts before graduating.
RAM’s mission is to prepare students for the professional stage, so every performance opportunity during the course is geared toward visibility and career advancement.
Language Support for International Students
RAM’s language requirement is relatively accessible, with an IELTS minimum of 5.5 in each band. However, the Head of Course conducts an interview with each applicant to assess real-time listening and speaking ability. The ability to communicate clearly in fast-paced rehearsal settings is essential—more so than just a test score.
Additionally, for non-native English speakers, there’s a dedicated British English accent (RP) class each week, helping students adjust both linguistically and culturally.
RAM’s MA Musical Theatre is like an intensive training camp, designed to rapidly elevate students’ vocal, acting, and stagecraft skills while building industry connections. With dedication and preparation, many students sign with agents and step into professional careers even before graduation.
If you’re considering applying, it’s wise to start preparing early—especially your English and audition portfolio. Seek guidance from mentors familiar with RAM’s expectations for the best chance of success. If you have any questions about application strategy or course preparation, we welcome you to book a one-on-one consultation to make your study journey more grounded and clear.
