Maryland has a rich performing arts culture, from Baltimore’s powerful theatre scene to community-based programs and nationally recognized university acting departments. For aspiring actors seeking quality education, the state offers a wide range of programs—degree-based, workshop-based, classical, film-focused, and community-centered.
This comprehensive SEO-optimized guide outlines the Top 10 Acting Schools in Maryland and Their Fees, helping you compare tuition, program structure, strengths, and who each school is best for.
Top 10 Acting Schools in Maryland and Fees
1. University of Maryland – School of Theatre, Dance, and Performance Studies
The University of Maryland (UMD) offers one of the state’s most respected acting programs. Its Theatre major provides training in voice, movement, script analysis, character development, and performance technique. Students gain access to the world-class Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center, complete with multiple theatres and rehearsal spaces.
The program blends theory with practice, offering numerous stage performances, workshops, and collaboration with professional directors and guest artists. Graduates often go on to work in theatre, film, and arts education.
Key Highlights:
- Degree-based program
- Strong performance opportunities
- Excellent faculty and facilities
Fees:
- In-state tuition: $11,500/year
- Out-of-state tuition: $38,000/year
Best For: Students seeking a rigorous, university-level acting education.
2. Towson University – Department of Theatre Arts
Towson University is highly regarded for its Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Acting, an intensive four-year program that focuses on practical training. Students develop their stage presence with courses in movement, voice, improvisation, scene study, and on-stage performance.
The university’s connection to the Baltimore theatre community provides plenty of opportunities for internships and professional work. Students regularly participate in campus productions and industry-focused workshops.
Key Highlights:
- BFA performance track
- Strong emphasis on stage technique
- High-level faculty guidance
Fees:
- In-state tuition: $10,500/year
- Out-of-state: $27,000/year
Best For: Students aiming for a professional stage acting career.
3. Johns Hopkins Peabody Conservatory – Acting & Performance Workshops
Although widely known for music, Johns Hopkins’ Peabody Institute also hosts short-term acting intensives and performance workshops. These programs focus on foundational acting techniques, monologues, voice projection, and on-camera work.
Workshops are taught by industry professionals and are ideal for both beginners and working actors looking to refine their skills.
Key Highlights:
- Non-degree workshops
- Strong technical acting training
- Great for skill-upgrading
Fees:
- Workshops: $600–$3,000 depending on duration
Best For: Actors wanting flexible, short-term professional training.
4. McGill School of Acting (Baltimore)
The McGill School of Acting is a popular private acting academy specializing in on-camera film acting, making it perfect for aspiring film and TV performers. The curriculum includes audition mastery, character creation, commercial acting, improv, and professional set etiquette.
Class sizes are small, ensuring personalized coaching. Many students book film and commercial roles soon after completing the program.
Key Highlights:
- Focus on film/TV acting
- Hollywood-style techniques
- Strong audition training
Fees:
- Courses: $350–$800
- Advanced master programs: up to $2,500
Best For: Students pursuing film acting careers.
5. The Actor’s Place (Waldorf, MD)
The Actor’s Place is one of Maryland’s most active independent acting studios. The school offers weekly on-camera classes, youth programs, stage acting workshops, and commercial acting training. Their hands-on, performance-based approach helps students build confidence and camera presence quickly.
Actors also get the chance to participate in showcases attended by casting agents and industry professionals.
Key Highlights:
- Weekly classes and workshops
- On-camera technique focus
- Great for beginners
Fees:
- Monthly classes: $100–$250
- Specialty workshops: $150–$600
Best For: Beginners and intermediate actors seeking consistent practice.
6. Baltimore School for the Arts – Acting Program
The Baltimore School for the Arts (BSA) is among the top performing-arts high schools in the United States. Its acting program is highly selective, offering intensive training to young actors. In addition to the full-time high-school program, BSA also runs TWIGS, a free after-school arts program for younger children.
Students train in classical acting, improvisation, voice, movement, and character development. Many graduates go on to prestigious theatre universities and Broadway-level careers.
Key Highlights:
- Nationally recognized arts institution
- Focus on youth and teen actors
- Strong alumni success
Fees:
- High-school program: Free (public magnet school)
- TWIGS program: Free or very low cost
Best For: Young students looking to start acting early.
7. Greenbelt Arts Center – Acting Workshops
The Greenbelt Arts Center is a beloved community theatre and training center offering seasonal acting workshops for adults and teens. Lessons include monologue preparation, stage performance, voice control, and character interpretation.
Actors can participate in live productions and build confidence in a welcoming environment. It’s an excellent low-cost way to gain stage experience.
Key Highlights:
- Affordable community-based programs
- Seasonal classes for all levels
- Participation in theatre productions
Fees:
- Workshops: $100–$400
Best For: Adults seeking affordable, community-driven training.
8. Maryland Ensemble Theatre (Frederick) – The MET School of Theatre
The Maryland Ensemble Theatre (MET) offers an impressive acting school known for its hands-on approach. In addition to acting classes, MET offers improv training, voice training, stage movement, and directing workshops.
Students can audition for MET’s professional-level community productions, gaining stage experience and building their resumes.
Key Highlights:
- Professional theatre environment
- Broad course options
- High-quality improv program
Fees:
- Adult classes: $200–$600
- Youth classes: $150–$350
Best For: Actors seeking professional-level theatre exposure.
9. Chesapeake Shakespeare Company – CSC Academy
The Chesapeake Shakespeare Company (CSC) Academy specializes in classical theatre and Shakespearean acting. Actors learn text analysis, Shakespearean language mastery, character building, stage combat, and emotional expression.
The academy attracts both beginners and professionals wanting to refine classical acting skills. Students also get opportunities to perform on CSC’s respected stage.
Key Highlights:
- Focus on Shakespeare and classical acting
- Opportunities for public performances
- Ideal for stage-focused actors
Fees:
- Adult classes: $175–$500
- Youth programs: $150–$350
- Summer intensives: up to $800
Best For: Actors passionate about classical theatre.
10. Howard Community College (HCC) – Arts & Humanities Acting Courses
Howard Community College offers a surprisingly strong acting program for a community college. Students can pursue acting courses, theatre production training, and a full Associate Degree in Theatre Arts before transferring to a university.
With affordable tuition and hands-on instruction, HCC is ideal for budget-conscious students seeking foundational training.
Key Highlights:
- Affordable degree pathway
- Stage performance opportunities
- Transfer-friendly program
Fees:
- In-county tuition: $4,500/year
- Out-of-county: $8,000/year
- Out-of-state: $10,500/year
Best For: Students looking for a budget-friendly start to their acting education.
How to Choose the Right Acting School in Maryland
Before committing to a school, consider:
1. Your Acting Goals
Film acting? Choose McGill School or The Actor’s Place.
Theatre? Look toward Towson, UMD, or CSC Academy.
Youth training? Baltimore School for the Arts is unmatched.
2. Budget Considerations
Maryland offers everything from free programs to premium university tuition.
3. Time Commitment
Do you prefer:
- A full degree program?
- Short-term workshops?
- Evening/weekend training options?
4. Location & Accessibility
Pick a school that fits your schedule and commuting needs.
Conclusion
Maryland has an impressive variety of acting schools that accommodate beginners, professionals, youth, and career-focused performers. Whether you want a full university degree, film-focused training, Shakespearean mastery, or community theatre experience, this list of the Top 10 Acting Schools in Maryland and their fees gives you everything you need to make an informed choice.