Dance, BA

Integrating studies in dance and the liberal arts, the Bachelor of Arts degree program establishes foundations for creative and intellectual development, and cultivates multiple approaches to dance, career, and citizenship. Students take daily classes in Western classical and concert dance movement practices, complemented by courses in improvisation, choreography, dance history and theory, multicultural movement practices, global dance studies, digital performing arts, kinesiology, pedagogy, and community engagement.

Auditions for BA Admission

An audition is required for admission to the BA program in order to determine placement in ballet and contemporary movement practices classes and for consideration for scholarships. An online application is required in order to audition; visit Undergraduate Applications on the Department of Dance website. Contact the Department of Dance for more information or questions about auditions.

Learning Outcomes

Students will:

  • achieve proficiency in contemporary concert dance movement practices while developing stylistic versatility, expressive range, and efficient body mechanics;
  • learn to think critically about the historical, cultural, and social contexts of dance as an art form and cultural practice while developing strong writing skills and effective oral expression;
  • master formal compositional elements and improvisational techniques toward the creation of original choreographic work, and learn to articulate and render their creative intentions with clarity, with opportunities to present these works in public performances;
  • acquire performance skills, such as interpretation, expressivity, physical agility, and refinement, by participating in auditions, rehearsals, and studio and public performances;
  • acquire knowledge of anatomical and kinesiological principles and injury prevention for effective dance training and career longevity; and
  • attain an understanding of digital arts tools currently practiced in contemporary dance.