B.A. in Dance

The Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Dance at Grand Valley State University (GVSU) is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in the art of dance, combining technical training with creative exploration and academic study. The program is ideal for students who are passionate about dance and interested in pursuing careers as performers, choreographers, educators, or in other dance-related fields. The B.A. in Dance emphasizes both artistic development and critical thinking, preparing students to become versatile artists who contribute to the cultural and creative sectors.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the B.A. in Dance at GVSU offers a well-rounded education in various dance styles, including ballet, modern, jazz, and contemporary. Core courses cover dance techniques, choreography, performance, and dance history. Students are also encouraged to explore dance theory, anatomy for dancers, and movement analysis. Elective options allow students to specialize in areas such as dance pedagogy, dance for the camera, or interdisciplinary collaborations. The program balances practical training with academic inquiry, ensuring that students gain a deep understanding of the art form while honing their technical skills.

Research Focus: While dance is primarily a creative discipline, the B.A. in Dance at GVSU fosters research in areas such as dance history, cultural studies, and movement science. Students are encouraged to engage in research projects that explore the role of dance in society, its historical significance, and its intersection with other art forms. The program also supports research in dance education and the impact of dance on physical and emotional well-being. Through these research opportunities, students can contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field of dance and related studies.

Industry Engagement: GVSU’s dance program actively connects students with the professional dance community through internships, workshops, and guest artist residencies. Students have opportunities to perform in both student and faculty-choreographed productions, as well as in collaborations with local dance companies and arts organizations. Industry engagement is further facilitated through networking events and career fairs, where students can meet and learn from professionals in the field. These experiences provide valuable insights into the dance industry and help students build connections that can lead to future employment opportunities.

Global Perspective: The B.A. in Dance program at GVSU embraces a global perspective by exposing students to diverse dance forms and cultural traditions from around the world. Courses explore international dance styles, and students are encouraged to participate in study abroad programs to gain firsthand experience of dance in different cultural contexts. This global approach not only broadens students’ understanding of dance but also prepares them to engage with the increasingly interconnected world of the performing arts. By integrating global perspectives into their training, students develop a well-rounded view of dance as a universal language and artistic expression.

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 80 or higher.
• PTE: Overall score of 53 or higher.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 105.

Grand Valley State University (GVSU) offers various scholarships to help international students with their educational expenses. Scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership, and other criteria. 

International Merit Scholarship: GVSU offers merit-based scholarships to international students at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. The award amounts may vary, but they are typically based on a student's academic achievements. The scholarships are competitive and awarded to high-achieving students.

Study Abroad Scholarships: GVSU encourages international students to participate in study abroad programs. The university provides scholarships to students who wish to study abroad and gain valuable international experience.

Departmental Scholarships: Various academic departments and programs within the university offer scholarships for students pursuing specific majors. These scholarships are often based on academic performance and potential in the chosen field of study.

Cultural and Identity-Based Scholarships: GVSU promotes diversity and inclusivity. As a result, there are scholarships available for students who contribute to the diversity of the university community. These scholarships recognize students from underrepresented backgrounds.

Foundation Scholarships: GVSU Foundation Scholarships are made possible through the generosity of donors. These scholarships cover a wide range of academic disciplines and may be available to both undergraduate and graduate international students.

Community College Transfer Scholarships: International students transferring from U.S. community colleges to GVSU may be eligible for transfer scholarships, which can help with the cost of completing their bachelor's degrees.

Graduates of the B.A. in Dance program from Grand Valley State University have a variety of career paths available to them, thanks to the comprehensive and interdisciplinary nature of their training. The degree prepares students for professional roles in both performance and non-performance sectors of the dance and broader creative industries.

Professional Dancer: Graduates can pursue careers as professional dancers in ballet companies, contemporary dance troupes, musical theater productions, or commercial dance. This may include touring with dance companies, performing in live events, or participating in film, television, and music video productions.

Choreographer: Many graduates go on to become choreographers, creating original dance works for theaters, performance groups, and other venues. They may work independently or be hired by dance companies, theater productions, or dance studios to choreograph routines for performances or competitions.

Dance Instructor: A common career option is teaching dance in schools, studios, or community centers. Graduates with a passion for education can become dance teachers for children, teens, and adults in both private and public educational settings. Those with an entrepreneurial spirit may even open their own dance studios.

Dance Therapist: With additional training, graduates may pursue careers as dance/movement therapists, using movement to support emotional, cognitive, and physical well-being in therapeutic settings. Dance therapy is a growing field that combines knowledge of dance and psychology to treat patients in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and private practices.

Arts Administrator: Graduates interested in the business side of the arts can find employment as arts administrators, managing dance companies, theater organizations, or cultural institutions. Roles may include program coordination, marketing, fundraising, and event planning.

Dance Critic/Writer: With strong communication and writing skills, graduates can become dance critics or journalists, covering performances and trends in the dance world for publications, websites, or blogs. This career path involves attending performances, interviewing artists, and writing reviews or feature articles.

Dance Historian/Researcher: Those interested in the academic study of dance may pursue graduate studies and careers in dance history or dance research. This could involve working in universities or cultural institutions to study the history, theory, and cultural significance of dance.

Movement Coach/Choreographer for Film and TV: Graduates can work behind the scenes in the film, television, or theater industries, coaching actors or choreographing dance and movement scenes for productions. This role blends creativity with technical expertise in body movement and dance.

Freelance Artist: Many graduates choose to work as freelance artists, offering their talents in choreography, teaching, and performance on a project-by-project basis. Freelance work allows for a flexible schedule and the ability to work with a diverse range of clients and organizations.

Community Arts Advocate: Graduates with a desire to impact their communities can become involved in community arts programs, using dance as a tool for education, engagement, and social change. They may work in underserved areas, offering dance programs to at-risk youth, seniors, or other community members.