Dance & Kinesiology
The Department of Dance and the Kinesiology Departments have established a dual degree pathway, which students can begin upon entry to either program. Requiring 158 overall University credits, this degree is for highly motivated and focused students with an interest in how the body moves with in-depth Kinesiology courses in human movement, bioenergetics, biomechanics, motor development and more. Additional opportunities include the option of K-12 Teaching Licensure/ Certification in Physical Education with an Endorsement in Dance, allowing you to teach dance in the public schools. Attaining the certification will include an extra semester of study as well as a semester devoted to the Student Teacher Placement/Experience. Further build out your career with Yoga Certification, which allows you teach in yoga and dance studios across the world. Create a senior thesis project as a synthesis of the studies within dance and Kinesiology under the mentorship of a dance and kinesiology faculty members, and present your research to the entire community.
- DANC 150—Green Room
- DANC 160—Dancing Techniques I
- DANC 232—Repertory Company
- KIN 122—Physical Activity and Health
- KIN 140— Social Science of Human Movement
Students should consult with an academic advisor regarding course selection prior to the advanced registration period.
With broad skills, our graduates thrive in body-based professions and are prepared to pursue further graduate study and/or careers in dance education, occupational therapy, physical therapy, nutrition and injury prevention/care, athletic training, somatics and physiology.
- Dance Therapy
- Somatics (such as Alexander Technique, Pilates, Feldenkrais)
- Physical Therapy
- Teaching: university, studio, and public school (K-12 certification requirements vary from state to state)
- Ability to accept public scrutiny and criticism
- Ability to analyze and interpret emotions
- Ability to captivate audiences
- Ability to demonstrate emotions/ideas
- Ability to interact with people of differing backgrounds and personalities
- Ability to maintain composure under pressure
- Disciplined in an exercise program
- Good ability to concentrate/practice
- Imagination/Creativity
- Proficiency in all types of dance
- Occupational therapist
- Physical therapist
- Nutritionist
- Injury prevention/care
- Athletic trainer
- Somatics instructor
- Physiologist
- Physical education instructor
Some careers may require education beyond an undergraduate degree.
- Participating in undergraduate research
- Applying for a study abroad experience
- Utilizing resources of The Career Center
- Joining a Registered Student Organization (RSO) related to this major, such as:
- Illini N Motion Dance Team: focuses on student-run and student-choreographed dance routines ranging from hip-hop to lyrical, including Jazz, Tap, Pointe, Ballet, and Modern
- Legend Dance Company: provides an outlet for talented students of all majors to express themselves through choreography and performance of dance
There are several professional organizations dedicated to Dance. Their websites might be able to provide a glimpse in the world of Dance. These organizations include American Dance Guild, Dance USA, and National Dance Education Organization.