Enhancing Student Employability? Current practice and student experiences in HE performing arts

PALATINE, the Higher Education Academy Subject Centre for Dance, Drama and Music, received dedicated HEFCE funding (2003-2004) to address issues surrounding graduate employability, particularly focusing on the distinctive features of the labour market in the performing arts and creative industries. In the world of the Arts, the job market is very competitive and employment prospects for graduates are relatively uncertain. Career paths in this field are also very different from traditional career models in other industries. Despite the fact that performing arts courses have been listed at the lowest end of university league tables for graduate employment, this article demonstrates that courses in dance, drama and music are generally providing excellent preparation for the demands of the creative industries.