<p>My D attended the International Thespian Festival and had the opportunity to audition for some schools. She received a call back from Cap21 and he offered her a spot in his program. She was very impressed with what he had to say but is hesitant because it's a two year certificate program. Can anyone weigh in on the quality of the training and if a four year degree from a BFA is a better route to go?</p>
<p>I sent you a PM.</p>
<p>I can tell you that the quality of training at CAP21’s professional program is superb! My son is currently attending and is working his butt off and feels challenged but nurtured every single day. CAP21 was NYU’s musical theater studio for many years and was a very difficult program to get accepted into, not only due to NYUs rigorous academic standards, but also because CAP was such a world-renowned training program. Now that it is no longer affiliated with NYU, the only thing that has changed is that it’s no longer affiliated with NYU, so therefore, no BFA from NYU. However, the training is still top-of-the-line, intense, challenging, etc. It is a logical option for someone who is very serious about musical theater and wants to have a shot at entering the profession in earlier than 4 years. We decided that it was the perfect opportunity for our son, that he can always finish his degree at some point in the future (you get transfereable credits at the end of the two years), and if he could get accepted, why wouldn’t he want to go there and get fantastic training? To us, it was a win-win situation and I know that he does not regret his decision in the least. In fact, he often remarks at how lucky and fortunate he is to have this opportunity and is willing to work as hard as he can to get the most out of it in order to help reach his ultimate goal: getting work! 
No one can make the decision about a 4year BFA vs. a two year professional program except the student and his family. You have to sit down and write down goals, dreams, aspirations and then see what makes the most sense for you. For some families, a 4-year degree is paramount, and I understand why. For others, getting the direct training is more important…especially when there is always time in the future to do the gen ed requirements for a degree. If you have any particular questions you’d like to ask about CAP’s professional program, please let me know. I am happy to help. It is such an amazing place!</p>
<p>Hey!</p>
<p>I was wondering how your son is doing with the no meal plan or dorm? Has it been hard? This has been my dilemma, because I love the program!</p>
<p>Hi BroadwayKing17, I think no dorm or meal plan has been a challenge, but S has done very well at budgeting and being careful with how he spends his money. He is fortunate with his living situation, and buys groceries and stuff to get through the week…saving money for nights out and good occasions. But I recognize the challenge you all face…it’s not easy. BUT…you have the excitement of living in NYC and the wonderful rigors of the training! Are you there now or considering the program? If you want something bad enough, you’ll do whatever it takes to succeed! Good luck!</p>