0f095f98c370dc7e_TarajiTop.xxxlargeConsidering a career in entertainment, but still want that “A Different World” experience that your friends and family will probably never stop bragging about?  If so, then you may want to consider these eight colleges and universities.  While Juilliard, Yale, NYU, Berklee, and others are often lobbied as the best choices for students who want to pursue careers in acting, music, directing, and more—there are also credible HBCUs that have not only put major names on the big & small screens and concert stage, but also behind the scenes as executives at major networks, agencies, studios, and music companies.

A number of factors were considered when compiling this list.  In entertainment, it is widely accepted that what you decide to major in “doesn’t matter”; however, there are some majors that may better equip you with skills to succeed within the industry.  The locations of the colleges and universities were also taken into account, as proximity to or presence in major markets plays a significant role in the types of opportunities students may (or may not) be able to access.  Of additional relevance are the types of companies where graduates in entertainment are currently employed, as well as famous/notable alumni.

5Florida A&M University

The nation’s largest HBCU, Florida A&M continues to produce some of the entertainment industry’s best talent.  Its alumni of current notoriety are R&B singer and reality star K. Michelle and filmmaker Will Packer (This Christmas, Think Like a Man, Ride Along, Stomp the Yard).  Other graduates and past attendees include Grammy- and Oscar-winning rapper Common, Tony Award-winning actress Anika Noni Rose, songwriter/producer Rico Love, and sports anchor Pam Oliver.  FAMU alumni currently hold key roles at companies like Harpo Studios, Revolt TV, and Sony Music Entertainment.

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