BA (Hons) Dance and Professional Practice

The BA (Hons) Dance and Professional Practice program at the University of Bedfordshire, UK, is a dynamic undergraduate degree designed to provide students with comprehensive training in dance techniques, choreography, performance skills, and professional practice. This program combines practical dance training with academic study, preparing students for careers in the dance industry or further study in dance-related fields.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the BA (Hons) Dance and Professional Practice program encompasses a wide range of subjects related to dance theory, technique, choreography, and performance. Students study various dance styles, including contemporary, ballet, jazz, and urban dance, developing technical proficiency and artistic expression. They also explore theoretical aspects of dance, such as dance history, dance analysis, choreographic principles, and dance pedagogy. The program may include modules on anatomy and physiology, dance improvisation, dance for camera, and interdisciplinary collaboration, providing students with a well-rounded dance education.

Research Focus: Research is an integral part of the BA (Hons) Dance and Professional Practice program at the University of Bedfordshire. Students have the opportunity to engage in research projects that explore diverse aspects of dance, including choreographic innovation, dance aesthetics, cultural influences on dance, and the psychology of performance. They may conduct practical research through choreographic projects, performance analysis, or movement exploration, as well as theoretical research through literature reviews, critical analysis, and academic writing. Through research, students deepen their understanding of dance as an art form and develop their own artistic voice and perspective.

Industry Engagement: The University of Bedfordshire emphasizes industry engagement in the BA (Hons) Dance and Professional Practice program, providing students with opportunities to connect with professionals in the dance industry and gain practical experience. Students may participate in workshops, masterclasses, and residencies led by professional dancers, choreographers, and dance companies. They may also undertake work placements or internships with dance organizations, theaters, or educational institutions, gaining valuable insights into the professional dance world and building networks within the industry.

Global Perspective: The BA (Hons) Dance and Professional Practice program at the University of Bedfordshire offers a global perspective on dance, exposing students to diverse dance traditions, cultures, and perspectives from around the world. Students study dance styles and practices from different cultural contexts, exploring how dance reflects and shapes cultural identity, social norms, and historical narratives. They may have the opportunity to engage with guest artists from international dance communities, participate in international dance festivals or exchanges, or undertake study abroad programs to broaden their cultural and artistic horizons.

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 60% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.

English language proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
• TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 72, with at least 17 in Listening, Reading, Speaking, and Writing.
• PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 72 with no individual score below 59.
• Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

The University of Bedfordshire offers various scholarships and financial aid options to support students in their academic journey. These scholarships are designed to recognize excellence, support underrepresented groups, and provide financial assistance to deserving students.  

Vice Chancellor's Scholarships: These scholarships are available to both undergraduate and postgraduate students and offer a reduction in tuition fees. The scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership potential, and contribution to the community.

Bedfordshire Education Excellence Scholarship: This scholarship is aimed at supporting high-achieving students from the local region. It provides a fee reduction for eligible undergraduate students who have achieved outstanding academic results.

Sports Scholarships: The university offers sports scholarships to talented athletes who have demonstrated exceptional performance in their respective sports. These scholarships provide financial support, coaching, access to sports facilities, and other benefits to help athletes balance their studies and sports commitments.

International Scholarships: The university provides scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships are awarded based on academic merit and can help offset tuition fees for eligible international students.

External Scholarships: In addition to the university-specific scholarships, students can also explore external scholarship opportunities offered by government organizations, charities, and other funding bodies. The university's scholarship office can provide guidance and support in finding external scholarship opportunities.

The University of Bedfordshire provide a range of scholarships to help students achieve their academic goals and make their university experience more accessible and affordable.

Graduates of the BA (Hons) Dance and Professional Practice program from the University of Bedfordshire, UK, possess a versatile skill set and creative expertise that opens up a range of exciting career opportunities in the dance and performing arts industries. 

Professional Dancer: Graduates can pursue careers as professional dancers, performing in dance companies, theaters, film, television, or commercial productions. They may specialize in specific dance styles such as contemporary, ballet, jazz, hip-hop, or cultural dance forms, and perform in a variety of settings including stage productions, music videos, live events, and entertainment venues.

Choreographer: Those with a passion for choreography can work as choreographers, creating original dance works and productions for various platforms. They conceptualize movement sequences, develop choreographic concepts, and collaborate with dancers, directors, and designers to bring their artistic vision to life. Choreographers may work independently, with dance companies, or in theater, film, television, and advertising industries.

Dance Teacher/Instructor: Graduates may pursue careers as dance teachers or instructors, sharing their passion and expertise with others through teaching and coaching. They may work in dance schools, community centers, performing arts academies, or fitness studios, teaching students of all ages and skill levels in various dance styles. Dance teachers may also offer private lessons, workshops, and masterclasses.

Dance Company Director: Those with leadership and organizational skills can work as dance company directors, leading and managing dance companies or performance groups. They oversee artistic direction, production planning, budgeting, fundraising, and administrative operations to ensure the success and sustainability of the organization. Dance company directors may also collaborate with artists, choreographers, and producers to create and produce dance productions.

Arts Administrator: Graduates can pursue careers in arts administration, working for dance companies, theaters, arts organizations, or cultural institutions. They may oversee marketing and promotion, event planning, fundraising, grant writing, and administrative operations to support the activities and initiatives of arts organizations. Arts administrators play a crucial role in promoting dance and the performing arts and ensuring their accessibility to audiences and communities.

Dance Movement Therapist: Those interested in the therapeutic applications of dance can pursue careers as dance movement therapists, using movement and dance as a form of psychotherapy to promote emotional, cognitive, and physical well-being. They work with individuals or groups in clinical settings, schools, rehabilitation centers, or community organizations, using dance and movement to address psychological, social, and developmental challenges.

Arts Educator/Outreach Coordinator: Graduates may work as arts educators or outreach coordinators, developing and implementing dance education and outreach programs for schools, community groups, or social service organizations. They design curriculum, facilitate workshops, and coordinate performances and events to engage diverse audiences and promote the value of dance as an art form and educational tool.

Dance Researcher/Writer: Those with an interest in dance scholarship and writing can pursue careers as dance researchers, writers, or critics, contributing to the academic study, documentation, and promotion of dance as a cultural and artistic form. They may conduct research, write articles or books, and publish reviews or critiques on dance performances, artists, and trends in dance culture.