The Major
The Dance major, leading to either the B.F.A. or B.A. degree, includes study in a diverse range of dance techniques and theory courses. Guest artists visit campus regularly for master classes and workshops with a focus on career preparation. In addition, dance majors may spend one semester studying abroad. Three major concerts are produced each year. Some courses are offered on campuses other than the University as part of the Five College Dance consortium coordinated curriculum.
Requirements for the BFA Major:
Dance Technique (16 courses):
- Ballet Technique (4 Courses)
- Modern Technique (4 Courses)
- Jazz Technique (4 Courses)
- Elective Technique (4 Courses)
Dance History and Culture (2 courses)
- Dance in the Twentieth Century
- Dance and Culture or Issues in Dance History
Improvisation (1 course)
- Improvisation and Movement Exploration
Dance Composition (3 courses)
- Elementary Composition
- Intermediate Composition
- Advanced Composition
Dance Production (1 course)
Production Practicums (4 courses)
Rhythmic Analysis (1 course)
- Rhythmic Analysis from a Dancer’s Perspective
Scientific Foundations of Dance (1 course)
- Scientific Foundations of Dance 1
- Kinesiology 100 or Kinesiology 110
Music Elective (1 course)
Art/Art History Elective (1 course)
Theater Elective (1 course)
Dance Theory/Practice Elective (choose one option):
- 3-credit Dance Theory elective (1 course), or
- 2-credit Dance Practice elective (2 courses)
Junior Year Writing Requirement
Integrative Experience Requirement
Senior Project
Requirements for the BA Major:
Dance Technique (8 courses):
- Ballet Technique (2 Courses)
- Modern Technique (2 Courses)
- Jazz Technique (2 Courses)
- Elective Technique (2 Courses)
Dance History and Culture (2 courses)
- Dance in the Twentieth Century
- Dance and Culture or Issues in Dance History
Improvisation (1 course)
- Improvisation and Movement Exploration
Dance Composition (2 courses)
- Elementary Composition
- Intermediate Composition
Rhythmic Analysis (1 course)
- Rhythmic Analysis from a Dancer’s Perspective
Scientific Foundations of Dance (1 course)
- Scientific Foundations of Dance 1
- Kinesiology 100 or Kinesiology 110
Dance Theory/Practice Elective Modules (4 total)
- 3-credit Theory Dance elective (1 course), or
- 2-credit Dance Practice electives (2 courses)
Junior Year Writing Requirement
Integrative Experience Requirement
Senior Project
Study Abroad
Dance majors are urged to consider the possibility of study abroad by engaging in a semester-long program at universities in Greece, Italy, New Zealand, and other countries.
Honors in Dance
The Departmental Honors track serves the interests of students with the most intense passion for Dance and cross-disciplinary work. To join the program, students must have a minimum G.P.A. of 3.400, and should arrange to meet with the Dance Program Honors Program Director, as soon as possible after becoming a Dance major to discuss course scheduling and research interests.
For further information, contact:
Cathy Maclutsky
Administrative Assistant
maclutsky@dance.umass.edu