Description
Dance majors engage in high-quality physical training in contemporary dance forms, with additional dance styles and bodywork/somatic techniques to complement technical development. The Dance major includes the study of the history and aesthetics of dance taught from a global perspective, creative process and choreography, pedagogy, and dance training leading to ample performance opportunities in a variety of venues that connect students to the larger communities in which to make, practice and share their art.
What careers can this major prepare you for?
A dance major prepares students for continued education in MFA and PhD dance programs as well as offers opportunities for employment as: Professional Performer, Choreographer, Dance Educator/Instructor, Dance Therapist, Business Owner (e.g., Dance Studio), Bodywork Practitioner (e.g, Pilates, Yoga, etc.), Artistic Director, Costume Designer, Lighting Designer, Stage Manager, Arts Administrator/Manager, Facilities Coordinator. Dance majors may customize their coursework to prepare them for employment or further study in related fields such as: Health & Fitness, Healthcare (e.g., Performing Arts Medicine), Arts Advocacy, Marketing, Public Relations, Film & Photography, Technology.
What skills are developed within this major?
The dance major develops 21st-century skills: creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, and communication. Because a dance major engages in embodied practices, both technical and artistic, skills developed include: increased self-awareness and the ability to be a reflective thinker, discipline to achieve both personal and group goals, work habits that cultivate curiosity, imagination, and evaluative skills, ability to engage in interpersonal dialogue, problem solving, and collaboration, appreciation of multiple perspectives, ability to create and share new ideas and solve problems, willingness to operate outside of personal comfort zone, and mindful awareness in efficient movement practices.
Choice of Two Curricular Tracks:
- Creative Process and Performance
- Dance in Community