Welcome to The Royal Danish Academy of Music
The Royal Danish Academy of Music (RDAM) warmly welcomes students of all nationalities. We believe international students are of great value and that the artistic level of our academy is elevated by having so many talented young musicians from around the world come to study with us.
We offer full degree study programmes and student exchange with our partner institutions, including the DIS and Fulbright programmes. Read more here.
The Academy was founded in 1867 with the Queen of Denmark as a patron. Today, RDAM is a dynamic institution of higher education with established educators, modern teaching resources, and dedicated facilities for distance learning with global partners. All this enables RDAM to strive for the highest international standards of academic excellence.
The student environment at RDAM is markedly international, with students coming from all over the world. The Academy compares to and cooperates with a number of the foremost music academies across Europe, the United States, and China. This international environment is ideal for the development of international competencies and the creation of professional networks.
Teaching and Learning at RDAM
Teaching methods at RDAM focus on the skill and artistic style of the individual student. The approach to learning is creative and encourages the development of the student as an independent musician, capable of making qualified and informed creative and professional decisions. This student-centred learning is applied in both individual and joint classes.
Students at RDAM can expect globally recognised academic standards of the highest level. All faculty members have valuable and up-to-date first-hand experience as music professionals. This ensures expertise, artistic knowledge, and a practical perspective in their teaching. The learning environment in Denmark is friendly and relaxed, with students and teachers openly debating during joint classes, ensemble playing, and collaborative projects. At RDAM, we offer student counselling services in English.
Student life in Copenhagen
There are many American full degree and study abroad students in Denmark. Americans are the largest group of students coming to Denmark from outside the EU, averaging 3500 per year. In the capital city of Copenhagen, you will have plenty of opportunities to meet fellow Americans and international students. The locals are friendly, helpful, and easy to communicate with, as the vast majority speak English.
Copenhagen and its suburbs are student-friendly and safe, with excellent public transportation that makes it easy for students to get around. The city has a rich cultural life with many concerts, performances, exhibitions and festivals. Copenhagen often tops international surveys determining the quality of life, personal safety, and even the happiness of its citizens. Most healthcare in Denmark is free of charge, and you pay only 25-50 % of the price for medication. A clean environment is important to the Danes, and Copenhagen is one of the most bicycle-friendly cities in the world. More than a third of Copenhageners commute to work or school by bicycle – all year round!
With non-stop flights from 183 international destinations and more than 4,000 weekly departures and arrivals, Copenhagen Airport puts you within a one or two-hour flight of all major European cities. Metro and train station at the arrival hall provides fast transport to the city's heart, and The Royal Danish Academy of Music’s location right next to the FORUM metro stop connects you directly to the airport.