WS Chronicle

The School of Drama at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts (UNCSA) has been ranked #6 in the world by The Hollywood Reporter, and its high school program is #3.

The June 6 print issue of the magazine, available now online, ranked 25 college programs and 10 high school programs based on its poll of 60 top casting directors and agents.

In 2013, UNCSA’s college program was ranked seventh in the world. In 2012, it was among the magazine’s first published list of 25 best programs. Schools that year were listed alphabetically and were not ranked. This is the first year The Hollywood Reporter has ranked high school theatre programs.

“It is gratifying to be recognized for what we already know,” said Drama Dean Carl Forsman. “Both our high school and college programs are among the very best in the world. Our faculty are top notch, and that allows us to attract students who are very talented and have a passion for acting and directing.”

The magazine noted that UNCSA accepts 28 out of 450 college applicants; that after its 2013 showcases, 17 of 25 grads landed an agent or manager; and 10 months after graduation, 13 have Screen Actors Guild or Equity cards. As notable alumni, it mentioned Mary-Louise Parker and Dane DeHaan.

Ranked above the UNCSA college program are Yale, Juilliard, Carnegie Mellon, Tisch School of New York University, and the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London.

The magazine’s high school list of “launchpads for teenage talent” ranks Interlochen (Mich.) in first place and LaGuardia (New York City) in second place.