LAMDA granted indefinite Degree Awarding Powers by the Office for Students

LAMDA is thrilled to announce that it has been granted indefinite Degree Awarding Powers (DAPs) by the Office for Students (OfS), marking one of the most significant milestones in the conservatoire’s 165-year history. 

This decision confirms LAMDA’s academic strength, its robust governance, and the consistently high quality of its training across acting, directing, production and technical arts, musical theatre and screen. It places LAMDA among a small group of specialist institutions in the UK entrusted with full authority to design, award and regulate their own degrees. 

Professor Mark O’Thomas, Principal & CEO, said: 
“The Office for Students' decision is a major endorsement of the calibre and integrity of our work. Indefinite Degree Awarding Powers deepen our academic independence and allow us to innovate with confidence, ensuring our programmes remain directly aligned to the needs of a rapidly evolving industry. This is a landmark moment for our students, staff and alumni, and it strengthens LAMDA’s position as a global leader in conservatoire training.” 

Sir Nigel Carrington, Chair of the Board of Trustees, said: 
“LAMDA has shaped the cultural landscape for generations. This award recognises the strength of our governance and the dedication of our staff. It gives the institution the autonomy required to continue delivering rigorous, industry-relevant programmes that empower students to thrive in the creative industries.” 

LAMDA received probationary DAPs in 2021, following its transition from the former Conservatoire for Dance and Drama and longstanding validation arrangement with the University of Kent. Today’s decision follows extensive review by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education and the OfS, concluding a multi-year process of scrutiny into the Academy’s academic standards, management and regulatory compliance. 

The confirmation comes at a moment of significant growth for LAMDA, including the opening of its first international training facilities in New York City in January 2025.

Indefinite DAPs will enable further development of new courses, expanded international partnerships, and enhanced opportunities for students across stage, screen and creative technologies.

Read the full report from the OfS here.