undergraduate
Dance
Best schools with dance
What is a dance major?
Dance curriculums prepare participants to express ideas, feelings, and/or inner visions through the performance of one or more of the dance disciplines, including but not limited to ballet, modern, jazz, ethnic, and folk dance, and that focuses on the study and analysis of dance as a cultural phenomenon. Concentrations are in technique, choreography, Laban notation, dance history and criticism, and dance production.
of students said the outlet for creativity was a highlight of this major.
of students found this major to be difficult.
of students said they were motivated to select this major because it fit their passion & interest.
of students and alumni plan on being or are currently employed in an occupation related to this major.
of students said limited career opportunities were a challenging aspect of the major.
How much do dance majors make?
This data isn't currently reported, but we're working on it!
How popular is dance as a major?
Each year, around 2,620 students obtain a bachelor’s degree and around 180 students obtain an associate degree in dance. In 2021, 2,676 students received a bachelor's degree and 216 students received an associate degree. This is 4% fewer dance majors than there were in 2020. Dance is one of the most popular majors within performing arts.
Advice from dance majors
Share your experiencePractice. But do take time away from the studio to decompress. Drink plenty of water and remember to eat.
Make sure it is right for you, and then really dedicate yourself to the program!
I believe it’s always worth the challenge, whether you’re a musically inclined student or not anyone can be good at it. It just takes time and effort to achieve your full potential and you should never forget to always have fun while you’re dancing instead of stressing over a tiny move you can’t quite get at the moment. No one is born a pro or wakes up one day with extraordinary abilities so take a breath and enjoy the world of dance.
Be yourself and don’t be afraid to open your mind to new perspectives. Learning from different professors and obtaining a greater diversity of the art will help you greatly later on. Knowing different techniques, styles, new movement exercises, etc can help you with teaching a group or even creating your own work as well. Dance is a very versatile major, and it is very important to be open minded to any style or exercise you are learning because it really could help you in the future. Also really take in every moment. Be present during classes and performances and don’t ever take it for granted. Be thankful for every class you take and for all the opportunities provided to you.
We have a very unique degree so I would say to use all of the opportunities and resources provided while you're still in school. Get involved with your program and start making those networking connections so you have things to fall back on post graduation. Be present and embody the privilege of being a higher education dance student!
