At the undergraduate and graduate levels, there are a variety of dance degree programs to choose from. Some of these degree programs emphasize dance performance, but dance can also be studied purely academically or analytically. While many choreographers are also dancers, a choreography degree is usually distinct from a performance degree. Dance can also be combined with other disciplines such as theater or anthropology to create unique dual majors.
A bachelor’s degree in dance is one of the most common types of dance degree programs. Liberal arts topics and completion of the academic subjects required of all BA holders must be included in a bachelor of arts in this subject. A bachelor of fine arts, on the other hand, focuses solely on dance and may include nearly all practice and technique classes. Some schools distinguish between these two types of degrees, while others only offer one.
Graduate dance degree programs are frequently geared toward producing professionals in the field. A master’s degree in dance, for example, could teach people how to become dance teachers. Many of these dance degree programs are geared toward people who are already accomplished dancers who require proof of their abilities or education in order to advance to the next level. Dance techniques are not taught in most graduate programs.
Although a Ph.D. in dance is possible, it is usually not required for working professionals. The history of dance or the philosophical ideas that underpin movement are usually the focus of this degree. Due to the close relationship between these two types of art, dance degrees are frequently combined with theater degrees. Although different schools come from different philosophical backgrounds, the focus of a Ph.D. in dance is determined the individual’s interests.
In addition to university degrees, there are numerous certificate programs and awards available in this field, as well as awards associated with completing certain levels of coursework at dance schools. Many dancers forego a college degree in favor of performance because the age at which many types of dancers can be successful is very young, and a degree is thought to obstruct a dancer’s career. Nonetheless, academic dance study can take many forms, and different programs may focus on different types of dance. While some dance degree programs specialize in ballet, others are primarily concerned with contemporary dance. As a result, it’s critical to look into not only the degree levels but also the courses offered at the school.