The Broward County School District proudly offers a special high school magnet program for students with a gift in the arts. Housed on the campus of Dillard High School, Dillard Center for the Arts (DCA) is the highlight of excellence in the visual and performing arts education in Broward County. DCA provides a comprehensive education, balancing the highest caliber artistic training, academic and creative development, as well as preparation to compete for scholarships toward advanced study in institutions of higher learning. Admittance to DCA is through application and audition only.

DCA trains talented students who are interested in pursuing an arts profession and instills an appreciation for the arts in those students who choose other careers. Upon admission, each DCA student is given special attention in developing an individualized instructional plan tailored to his/her needs and interests. The dedication, discipline, and focus instilled by the program prepare students for success in any field.

Although academic studies, rehearsals and performances are a priority, DCA’s talented students are active in school clubs, cheerleading, student government and athletics. Research in arts education indicates that nurturing the student's artistic potential increases growth and achievement in other academic areas. Many educators share the conviction that attention to the arts enhances the student's physical, social, emotional and cognitive development. Furthermore, it helps students gain a better personal point of view by communicating ideas, feelings and meaning, and helps nurture self esteem and confidence.

Designed as a four-year course of study, each arts area has structured its course offerings into lower level and upper level classes. Students enter the program in the lower level and through concentrated study, are promoted into upper level study. Semester reviews conducted in each discipline provide all students with periodic feedback on their individual development. Most DCA students are college-bound and during their upper level study participate in Unified Arts, a semester course designed to assist with the application process and to secure scholarships for higher education. Last year alone, DCA seniors amassed over $1,500,000 in scholarship offers.