Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, University of London open days

The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama University of London, or Central as it is affectionally known, was founded in 1906 by Elsie Fogerty, a pioneer in speech training.  

The university offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses in acting, theatre practice, drama and applied theatre designed to equip students with industry skills and experience to prepare them for the fast-moving creative industries.  

Courses are highly specialised and benefit from professional training in the form of external practitioners delivering sessions and units. Some of Central's most notable alumni, including Dame Judi Dench, Laurence Olivier, Harold Pinter, and Andrew Garfield.  

Facilities  

Central's library is a leading specialist collection of drama and theatre practice resources. 

The campus is also home to the Embassy Theatre, the Webber Douglas performance space and many rehearsal rooms, a cafe bar and canteen, nine practice rooms, Students' Union bar and the purpose-built North Block. These assets are shared with the local community.  

Central students can also access a range of services offered by the University of London Students' Union. 

Why go to an open day?  

When you attend an open day, you'll get a gut feeling about the university. Open days will help give you clarity if you're not sure what course to choose. You'll be able to visit different departments and chat with lecturers and other department staff, there are often subject talks too. You'll also get to speak to current students. They can tell you whether they're satisfied with the teaching, what the local nightlife is like, what the best halls of residence are – pretty much anything. Don't forget to look at the accommodation for yourself and make time to walk around the surrounding area to see if you like it.  

Where is it located?  

The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama University has one campus in Swiss Cottage, North London which is easily reached using public transport.  

London is an exciting international city with something for everyone. In the surrounding area you'll find Camden Town as well as Hampstead Heath and Regents Park. The university is next to Finchley Road which has a range of places to eat, supermarkets a cinema as well as a library, numerous fitness centres and more. 

Rankings

This university features in our specialist arts, drama and music league tables. The uni took second spot in 2024, moving up two places from the previous year. For more details, visit their profile page.