Where Your Favorite Actors Earned Their College Degrees

Where Did Your Favorite Actors Go to College?

Wondering where your favorite stars got their start? Many of today’s most successful actors and actresses didn't jump straight into the spotlight. Before they graced the silver screen or dominated your favorite streaming shows, they were just like you: college students. This list reveals the educational backgrounds of some of the most celebrated performers, from theater-trained legends to business-majoring superstars.

While some actors, like Natalie Portman (Harvard) and James Franco (UCLA), are well-known for their academic achievements, you might be surprised to discover where others, like Denzel Washington (Fordham) or Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson (University of Miami), earned their degrees. Their stories prove that a college education can provide a solid foundation, regardless of your ultimate career path. Whether they majored in acting, psychology, or even economics, these stars show that there’s no single path to success in Hollywood.

Aspiring actors often ask, "Should I go to a performing arts school?" This list shows that while many top performers studied theater or film, a degree in another field can also provide valuable skills and a unique perspective. By exploring the colleges attended by these famous alumni, you can get a better sense of the diverse educational routes that lead to a career in entertainment. Their journeys highlight the importance of dedication, passion, and, for many, the transformative power of a college education.