Anadolu University School of Music and Drama was founded in 1986 with the idea of establishing a modern school of music and drama in Anatolia.

The programs in Department of Performing Arts, Program in Acting and Department of Music, Programs in Piano, String, Wind and Percussion Instruments, started to admit students in 1989. Program in Harp and in Guitar were founded in 2002 in the Department of Music. The School also supports a Secondary Education School where prospective students are trained in their respective areas of performing arts and music to prepare them for their future years at the School of Music and Drama. Program in Opera was founded in 2002 in the Department of Performing Arts with one year preparatory education and four years for bachelor's degree.

The School of Music and Drama since, has established a drama group 'Theatre Anadolu', and the music groups of 'Anadolu University Youth Orchestra', 'Anadolu University Symphony Orchestra' and 'Anadolu University Chamber Orchestra'.