B.A. in Dance, Pathway - 2 Semesters

Washington, D.C.

 

INTAKE: Jan, May & Aug

Program Overview

American University in Washington D.C., USA, offers an enriching Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) program in Dance designed to cultivate students' artistic skills, technical proficiency, and creative expression in various dance forms. Completed over two semesters, this program provides a comprehensive pathway for students passionate about pursuing careers in dance performance, choreography, education, or arts administration. American University's B.A. in Dance program offers students a rigorous and holistic education in dance, providing them with the technical skills, artistic creativity, cultural awareness, and professional preparation needed to thrive in the dynamic field of dance. With its focus on artistic excellence, interdisciplinary collaboration, and social responsibility, the program empowers students to become versatile, innovative, and socially engaged artists who contribute meaningfully to the global dance community.

Curriculum:

  1. Foundational Dance Training: The B.A. in Dance program begins with foundational courses aimed at developing students' technical proficiency and artistic expression in dance. Students explore various dance styles, including ballet, modern, jazz, contemporary, hip-hop, and cultural dance forms. They focus on developing proper alignment, technique, coordination, flexibility, strength, and musicality through rigorous training and practice.

  2. Choreography and Composition: Students engage in coursework focused on choreography and composition, where they learn the principles and techniques of creating original dance works. They explore choreographic tools such as movement invention, spatial design, rhythmic variation, and thematic development. They experiment with improvisation, partnering, and group dynamics to generate movement phrases and sequences that communicate ideas, emotions, and narratives.

  3. Performance Opportunities: American University provides students with ample performance opportunities to showcase their artistic talents and skills. Students participate in dance productions, recitals, showcases, and concerts throughout the academic year, performing in both formal theater settings and informal studio spaces. They gain valuable stage experience, develop stage presence, and refine their performance techniques in front of live audiences.

  4. Dance History and Theory: The program includes coursework in dance history, theory, and aesthetics, where students study the evolution of dance as an art form and its cultural significance. They explore the historical and cultural contexts of various dance traditions, styles, and movements, examining the contributions of influential choreographers, dancers, and dance companies to the field of dance. They analyze dance works, performances, and critical writings to deepen their understanding of dance as a form of artistic expression and social commentary.

  5. Body Awareness and Injury Prevention: American University emphasizes the importance of body awareness, injury prevention, and holistic well-being in dance training. Students learn about anatomy, kinesiology, and biomechanics, gaining insights into the mechanics of movement and the prevention of dance-related injuries. They engage in conditioning exercises, stretching techniques, and somatic practices such as Pilates, yoga, or Feldenkrais to enhance body awareness, alignment, and injury resilience.

  6. Dance Pedagogy and Teaching Methods: The program may include coursework in dance pedagogy and teaching methods for students interested in pursuing careers as dance educators or instructors. Students learn effective teaching strategies, lesson planning, curriculum development, and classroom management techniques for teaching dance to diverse populations and age groups. They gain practical experience through teaching practicums, workshops, or internships in educational settings such as schools, community centers, or dance studios.

  7. Interdisciplinary Collaboration: American University encourages interdisciplinary collaboration and exploration in dance. Students have the opportunity to collaborate with students and faculty from other disciplines such as music, theater, visual arts, film, or digital media to create interdisciplinary performance works that integrate multiple artistic forms and mediums. They learn to think creatively, collaboratively, and innovatively, expanding their artistic horizons and pushing the boundaries of dance as an interdisciplinary art form.

  8. Cultural Diversity and Social Justice: The program fosters an understanding of cultural diversity, equity, and inclusion in dance. Students explore dance as a vehicle for cultural exchange, cross-cultural understanding, and social justice activism. They examine issues of race, gender, ethnicity, sexuality, and identity in dance, addressing questions of representation, power dynamics, and social inequalities within the field. They engage in critical dialogue, reflection, and advocacy for inclusive and equitable practices in dance education, performance, and administration.

  9. Professional Development: American University provides students with professional development opportunities to prepare them for careers in the dance field. Students receive guidance on audition techniques, resume building, networking strategies, portfolio development, and career planning. They have access to workshops, master classes, guest artist residencies, and industry events that connect them with dance professionals, companies, and organizations locally, nationally, and internationally.

  10. Capstone Project or Senior Thesis: The program culminates in a capstone project, senior thesis, or final performance project where students demonstrate their artistic vision, creative voice, and technical proficiency in dance. Students have the opportunity to choreograph and perform original dance works, present research findings, or engage in artistic collaborations that showcase their artistic growth and achievement. They receive mentorship and feedback from faculty advisors, peers, and guest artists throughout the development and presentation of their capstone projects.

Pollster Education

Location

Washington, D.C.

Pollster Education

Score

IELTS: 6

Pollster Education

Tuition Fee

USD 57300

Entry requirements for Undergraduate programs

  1. Academic Qualifications: Prospective undergraduate students must demonstrate strong academic qualifications to be considered for admission to American University. While specific requirements may vary by program, applicants typically need to have completed secondary education or its equivalent with a satisfactory academic record. The academic qualifications requirement generally falls within the range of 75% to 86%, depending on the program and the competitiveness of the applicant pool.

  2. English Language Proficiency:  

    • IELTS (International English Language Testing System): A minimum overall band score of 6 is required with no band less than 5.5.
    • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): The minimum TOEFL iBT (internet-based test) score requirement is 74 with no band less than 15.
    • PTE (Pearson Test of English): The minimum PTE Academic score requirement  is 50 with no band less than 46.
    • DET (Duolingo English Test): The minimum DET score requirement is 100.

American University (AU) in Washington D.C., USA, is committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion by providing financial assistance to international students through various scholarship programs. These scholarships are designed to attract top talent from around the world and make an American University education more accessible to students from diverse backgrounds.  

Global Leader Scholarship: The Global Leader Scholarship at American University is a merit-based award offered to international students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership potential, and a commitment to making a positive impact in their communities. This prestigious scholarship covers full tuition, room, and board for the duration of the student's undergraduate studies at AU.

International Peace Scholarship: The International Peace Scholarship is awarded to international students who have a strong academic record and a demonstrated commitment to promoting peace, justice, and social change. This scholarship provides partial tuition support to eligible students enrolled in undergraduate programs at American University.

AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship: The AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship is awarded to outstanding international students who have overcome significant obstacles and challenges to pursue their education and demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to serving their communities. This scholarship covers full tuition, room, and board for the duration of the student's undergraduate studies at AU.

AU International Merit Scholarship: The AU International Merit Scholarship is awarded to international students with exceptional academic achievements and strong leadership qualities. This merit-based scholarship provides partial tuition support to eligible undergraduate students enrolled at American University.

AU Dean's Scholarship for International Students: The AU Dean's Scholarship for International Students is awarded to academically talented international students who demonstrate financial need and have a strong commitment to academic excellence. This scholarship provides partial tuition support to eligible undergraduate students at AU.

AU Transfer Merit Scholarship for International Students: The AU Transfer Merit Scholarship for International Students is awarded to outstanding transfer students from international institutions who demonstrate exceptional academic achievements and leadership potential. This merit-based scholarship provides partial tuition support to eligible undergraduate transfer students at American University.

AU Presidential Scholarship for International Students: The AU Presidential Scholarship for International Students is awarded to top-performing international students who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievements, leadership abilities, and a commitment to service. This prestigious scholarship covers full tuition for eligible undergraduate students at AU.

These scholarships for international students at American University reflect the university's commitment to academic excellence, diversity, and global engagement. By providing financial assistance and support to talented and deserving students from around the world, American University seeks to foster a diverse and inclusive campus community and prepare students to become global leaders and change-makers in their respective fields. International students interested in applying for scholarships at American University should review the eligibility criteria and application requirements on the university's official website and contact the Office of Admissions for further assistance.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Dance program at American University in Washington D.C., USA, are equipped with a diverse skill set and a deep understanding of dance theory, history, and practice. This prepares them for various career opportunities within the dance industry and beyond. Graduates of the B.A. in Dance program at American University are well-prepared to pursue diverse and fulfilling career paths in the dance field and related industries. With their artistic talents, technical skills, creative vision, and interdisciplinary knowledge, they can make valuable contributions to the arts community, promote dance as a cultural form, and inspire others through their passion for movement and expression.

  1. Professional Dancer: Graduates may pursue careers as professional dancers with dance companies, theaters, or production companies. They can perform in various dance genres such as ballet, modern, contemporary, jazz, hip-hop, or cultural dance forms. Professional dancers may work in concert dance, commercial entertainment, musical theater productions, cruise ships, theme parks, or dance companies specializing in specific styles or traditions.

  2. Choreographer: Graduates may choose to become choreographers, creating original dance pieces for performances, productions, or events. They can choreograph for dance companies, theater productions, film and television projects, music videos, fashion shows, or special events. Choreographers may work independently or collaborate with directors, producers, composers, or designers to bring their artistic visions to life.

  3. Dance Educator: Graduates may pursue careers as dance educators or instructors, teaching dance classes, workshops, or master classes in schools, colleges, universities, community centers, or private studios. They can teach various dance styles and techniques to students of all ages and levels, from beginners to advanced dancers. Dance educators may specialize in specific genres, techniques, or pedagogical approaches and may also offer private lessons or coaching sessions.

  4. Dance Company Administrator: Graduates may work in administrative roles for dance companies, theaters, or arts organizations, managing operations, finances, marketing, or outreach programs. They can work as company managers, production managers, marketing coordinators, development officers, or education directors, supporting the artistic vision and organizational goals of dance companies and promoting dance as an art form within the community.

  5. Arts Manager or Administrator: Graduates may pursue careers in arts management or administration, working for arts organizations, cultural institutions, or non-profit arts agencies. They can work in roles such as arts administrators, program coordinators, event planners, or grant writers, overseeing programming, fundraising, marketing, or community engagement initiatives. Arts managers may work for dance companies, theaters, museums, galleries, festivals, or arts councils.

  6. Dance Therapist: Graduates may explore careers in dance therapy or somatic movement therapy, using dance and movement as therapeutic tools to promote physical, emotional, and psychological well-being. They can work in healthcare settings, mental health centers, rehabilitation facilities, schools, or community organizations, providing dance therapy sessions or leading movement-based interventions for individuals with diverse needs or populations facing health challenges.

  7. Dance/Movement Specialist: Graduates may work as dance/movement specialists or educators in healthcare, wellness, or community settings, facilitating movement-based interventions, workshops, or classes for populations with special needs, disabilities, or specific health conditions. They can work with children, adolescents, adults, or seniors in settings such as hospitals, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, schools, or community centers.

  8. Arts Entrepreneur: Graduates may choose to become arts entrepreneurs, starting their own dance studios, companies, or businesses. They can establish dance schools, studios, or academies offering classes, workshops, or performance opportunities. They may also launch dance-related businesses such as event planning, costume design, dancewear retail, or choreography services, leveraging their artistic skills and entrepreneurial spirit to create innovative ventures in the dance industry.

  9. Dance/Movement Therapist: Graduates may pursue careers as dance/movement therapists, using movement-based approaches to support individuals' physical, emotional, and mental health. They can work in clinical settings, mental health facilities, schools, or private practices, providing therapeutic interventions for individuals with a range of mental health or developmental challenges, trauma, or stress-related disorders.

  10. Arts Advocate or Activist: Graduates may become advocates or activists for the arts, promoting dance as a form of cultural expression, social activism, or community engagement. They can work for arts advocacy organizations, cultural nonprofits, or grassroots movements, advocating for increased funding, access, and visibility for dance education, performance, and cultural diversity initiatives. They may also engage in arts activism to address social justice issues, advocate for arts education in schools, or support underserved communities' access to the arts.


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