Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama - In Depth

Founded: 1949, as Cardiff College of Music. Became Welsh College of Music & Drama in 1971 and Royal College in 2001.

Site: Cardiff city centre in grounds of Cardiff Castle.

How to get there: Site close to main bus and railway stations.

Special features: The national conservatoire of Wales. Visiting artists include Boris Berman, Jonathan Snowden, Margaret Price, Krzysztof Smietana, Donald Maxwell, Charles Rosen, Robert Tear, Julian Lloyd Webber, Gwyneth Jones.

Academic features: Emphasis on practical studies; degrees in music (including popular music), stage & theatre design, stage management.

Awarding body: University of Wales.

Main awards: BMus. BA. Advanced Diploma, MMus.

Length of courses: 4 years for BMus.

Library & information services: 49,000 items; computer workstations provide word-processing, email and internet access. 3 theatres on site; studios and workshops; 3 large recital rooms and open-air performance venue at new Anthony Hopkins Centre.

Study abroad: Some exchange opportunities.

Careers: Information, advice and placement service.

Student advice & services: Student services manager, welfare team, counsellors, chaplaincy, police liaison.

Amenities: Refectory, coffee shop, SU shop and bar. Concert and opera ticket concessions; strong practical association with BBC and WHO.

Accommodation: No college accommodation available. Privately owned accommodation costs £40-£50 per week self-catering (+ bills £25 pw). SU holds lists of reputable landlords, housing agencies etc.

Living expenses budget: Minimum budget of £5000 pa (excluding tuition fees) recommended by College.

Term-time work: College allows part-time work. Some available in college, ushers, front of house, bars.

Financial help: Access funds available.

Tuition fees: Home students up to £1200 pa for first degrees (in 2005). International students pay £9880 pa.