Students will be able to:
- Evaluate basic knowledge of dance from the historical, social and cultural contexts by using specific dance vocabulary.
- Execute basic dance technique skills.
- Demonstrate a basic knowledge of the body from anatomical and/or somatic perspectives.
- Demonstrate knowledge of compositional craft for choreography.
- Identify necessary components of dance production.
The dance program is designed to unify the physical, intellectual, cultural, and artistic aspects of dance into an invigorating course of study, preparing students for careers in the dance arts and/or for graduate studies. The hands-on nature of the program allows for enhanced student learning supplemented by small class sizes. Experience and practice in a broad range of technical, performance, and creative skills develop the student’s capacity to form and transform thought into expressive composition and performance. By investigating the relationship of dance to other art forms, various ethnic groups and cultures, and to social trends through historic and contemporary periods, our students grasp the profound importance of dance as a fine art and as an essential component of human existence.
The Dance program requires 45-47 units of coursework, including a diverse core of 28 units and 7 units of dance electives. Students choose an additional 5-7 units of electives allowing them to delve into the aesthetics and philosophy of the arts, or concentrate on teaching methods as related to dance.
Annually, the program produces two performances, a fall formal student “Choreography Showcase”, and a spring faculty/student “Dance Visions” formal concert.
In coordination with Center Arts, we are able to provide affordable tickets and multiple master class opportunities with internationally renowned dance artists and companies. The Dance Program participates annually in American College Dance Association conferences. Students are highly encouraged to participate in the international exchange programs in order to experience dance as a universal and unifying phenomenon. The program prepares students for careers as dance teachers, choreographers and performers of innovative and/or multicultural works; performance artists; teacher of mind/body integration techniques; special arts events coordinators; designers of lights, sets and costumes; and prepares students for further study at the graduate level.
There are various dance clubs, on campus, including:
Information about dance clubs is available on the Clubs & Organizations website.
Admissions Requirements
Students must meet the requirements of the university to be admitted. There are no specific admission requirements or auditions for the dance major.
Learn more about our dance program on the Dance Studies website.
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