Dance Studies

Major

What makes our dance program different?

Our dance studies major helps you get ready for many different jobs in the dance industry. It requires a business minor and to complete an internship in the dance industry. Some of the classes you can take include Jazz, Tap, Hip Hop, Ballet, Modern, Arts Administration, Dance Film, Choreography, Teaching Dance, Dance and Technology, Backstage Work, and more. By combining artistic classes with business classes, you will be prepared for a range of careers in the dance world. The required internship gives you valuable hands-on experience to succeed in the professional dance industry.

As the only dance studies major offered in Michigan, our goal is to train and mentor dance-based performers, critical thinkers, writers, choreographers, production technicians, administrators, educators, and scholars.

You'll graduate prepared to contribute to the field of dance in various professional careers. While dance technique courses will be a significant portion of your required course work, critical thinking, writing and scholarly exploration will partner with the physical training to deepen your understanding of dance in a global context.

In our dance program, you'll engage in an internship within your chosen field of study and pursue a minor in business or entrepreneurship, setting the foundation for a lifelong career in the dance industry. 

You can put your learning on display in our 500-seat proscenium, Bush Theatre, and/or the 1,200-seat Plachta Auditorium. Plus, you'll have the opportunity to be in two major performances each year — the University Theatre Dance Company spring concert and the Student Choreography Showcase in the fall.

You can even produce, direct and/or choreograph your productions under the guidance of faculty. This offers a unique opportunity to tailor your academic experience to your career aspirations.

What will you learn in dance studies?

As a dance student here, you'll have amazing opportunities to gain real world experience before you graduate. 

• Performance Opportunities:
  • Begin performing your freshman year.
  • Choreograph and perform in the Annual Student Choreography Showcase.
  • Paid dance positions available through the summer performance company.
  • Direct and choreograph your own full dance concert under faculty supervision.
• Academic and Professional Development:
  • Required internship in the dance industry.
  • Required minor in business, entrepreneurship, or nonprofit leadership & service .
  • Benefit from national and international guest artist residencies.
• Program Environment:
  • Rigorous dance training combined with a supportive and compassionate learning environment.

Interested in a dance minor?

The minor in dance provides performance experiences and a well-rounded curriculum for students who wish to combine the study of dance with a degree in another discipline. After you earn a minor in dance at CMU, you may pursue a career in the professional dance industry. CMU's program will help you further develop your dance technique, production, history, and choreography skills.