Dance
You can choose from various programs that match your dreams, goals and ambitions and tailor make your program to build a sustainable career in the arts: Bachelor of Fine Arts, Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Arts + BS in Kinesiology, Musical Theater Minor, Yoga Certification and Dance Minor.
The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) provides comprehensive study in dance specifically designed for students who want to make an impact on the field as professional dancers, dance makers, teachers and visionaries. Requiring 77-80 credit hours in dance, this program features in-depth interactions that will prepare you to enter the professional world of dance through in-depth interactions with major artists in the field, collaborative experiences within a diverse and interdisciplinary curriculum, and individualized mentoring with our faculty. When you graduate from this program, you will be prepared to lead the field of dance as a visionary, advocate, performer, choreographer and/or teacher.
The Bachelor of Arts program provides a flexible, individualized and interdisciplinary approach to dance studies and art making, specifically designed for students who want to integrate studies from another field with their passion for dance. Requiring 52 credit hours in dance, this degree is highly self-directed and allows you to simultaneously pursue a minor or major in another discipline. Create your own path through the career preparation courses and career building opportunities such as the BA + BS in Kinesiology, Yoga Certification or a Musical Theatre Minor. Synthesize your studies in a senior thesis project, developed under the mentorship of our world-renowned faculty and present your research to the entire community. When you graduate from this program, you will be prepared to build your own unique career based on your selected course of studies.
- DANC 150—Green Room
- DANC 160—Dancing Techniques I
- DANC 232—Repertory Company
- DANC 270—Dancing in Community
Students should consult with an academic advisor regarding course selection prior to the advanced registration period.
With broad skills, our graduates choreograph, become artistic directors, dance on Broadway, teach, write, and thrive in body-based professions.
- Arts Administration
- Dance History and Criticism
- Dance Notation
- 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
- Artist-in-Residence
- Arts Council Director
- Ballet Mistress or Master
- Choreographer
- College Professor
- Company Dancer
- Consultant
- Dance Designer
- Dance Studio Owner/Manager
- Dance Therapist
- Director
- General Manager
- Grants Specialist
- Instructor
- Marketing Assistant
- Personnel Manager
- Physical Therapist
- Press Agent
- Private Teacher
- Production Assistant
- Booking Agent
- Technician
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.