<p>Sorry if it seemed like I meant daily training in a BFA is the only way to go, and that I miscategorized NYU. You are right; it is a BFA but I have it set in my mind as a BA because of the number of hours in studio.
I didn’t mean to sound as if getting a BFA is the only way to become an actor. I was just responding to the OP question about doing acting, MT and gen eds. There are programs where you can do all three, but you will be spending less time in each than a student who is just doing acting as an example.
Also we have looked at the numbers of hours and classes and not just the number of days and that is why I suggested reviewing sample schedules. This seems to be a really concrete way to see how you will be spending your time as a student.
I almost added a comment earlier about study in other areas rounding you out and enhancing you as an actor, but decided not to as the OP seemed to have that idea already and I was trying to show the other side… that the BFA in one discipline does allow you more time to specialize. You may take specialized classes in stage combat, acting for film, clowning or mime, style work or other classes in directing or tech that could help you get work. My D got one job because she has had some training in stage combat. There were 20 girls in a line and they said “Who has stage combat experience?” and the ones that did were hired.
It is possible for actors to study literature, history and the social sciences outside of school on their own to enhance that aspect of their education and to broaden their minds. I think it is harder to study acting or voice or dance, aside from rehearsing, on their own. I was just trying to make the point that the additional training in a single discipline BFA creates a performer who is more of a specialist, and that is something to be considered when selecting your training.
Sorry if I didn’t explain it well…</p>