B.F.A. in Dance

The B.F.A. in Dance at Webster University is designed to provide students with an intensive, hands-on education that emphasizes both performance and choreography. This program aims to cultivate well-rounded dancers who are prepared for professional careers in various aspects of the dance industry. Through a blend of technical training, artistic development, and theoretical studies, students gain a comprehensive understanding of dance as an expressive art form.

Curriculum: The curriculum for the B.F.A. in Dance is structured to offer a robust foundation in dance techniques, including ballet, modern, jazz, and improvisation. Students participate in daily technique classes, choreography workshops, and performance opportunities, allowing them to hone their skills. The program also incorporates courses in dance history, anatomy, and production, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for both the artistic and technical demands of the field.

Research Focus: Students in the B.F.A. in Dance program are encouraged to explore various research topics that enrich their understanding of dance. This may include studying the impact of cultural movements on dance styles, analyzing the evolution of specific dance forms, or investigating the physiological aspects of movement. Faculty members support student research initiatives, helping them to connect their academic studies with practical applications in dance.

Industry Engagement: Webster University places a strong emphasis on industry engagement, providing students with numerous opportunities to connect with professionals in the dance field. The program hosts master classes, workshops, and performances featuring guest artists and choreographers, allowing students to learn from experienced professionals. Additionally, students can participate in internships and collaborative projects that give them real-world experience and networking opportunities.

Global Perspective: The B.F.A. in Dance program promotes a global perspective by encouraging students to engage with diverse dance traditions from around the world. Through coursework that explores international dance styles and cultural contexts, students develop an appreciation for the richness of global dance heritage. This exposure helps students to cultivate a broader understanding of dance as a universal language and an essential part of human 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 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each component.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 80 or higher.
• PTE: Overall score of 53 or higher.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.

The university provides various scholarship opportunities to support international students in their academic pursuits. 

Global Leadership Scholarship: The Global Leadership Scholarship is designed for undergraduate international students who have demonstrated outstanding leadership in their communities or academic achievements. Eligibility criteria may include a strong academic record, leadership experience, and a making a positive impact.

Webster World Traveler Scholarship: This scholarship is aimed at encouraging international students to embrace and explore global perspectives. It may provide financial support for travel and cultural experiences. Eligibility criteria may include a passion for global engagement and a desire to contribute to international understanding.

International Cultural Engagement and Global Citizenship Scholarship: Webster University values students who actively engage with different cultures and contribute to global citizenship. This scholarship recognizes such contributions. Eligibility criteria may include involvement in cultural activities, community service, and a commitment to fostering cross-cultural understanding.

External Scholarships: Webster University may provide guidance on external scholarship opportunities that international students can explore for additional financial support.

B.F.A. in Dance program at Webster University prepares graduates for a wide range of fulfilling careers in the dance industry, equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in various artistic and professional roles.

Professional Dancer: Graduates often pursue careers as professional dancers, performing with dance companies, theater productions, and in various live performances. Their rigorous training equips them to excel in multiple dance styles, making them versatile artists capable of adapting to various performance contexts.

Choreographer: Many graduates transition into choreography, creating original dance works for stage productions, competitions, and dance festivals. This role allows them to express their creativity while collaborating with dancers and other artists to bring their vision to life.

Dance Educator: Graduates can become dance educators, teaching dance techniques and choreography at schools, dance studios, or community centers. They inspire and mentor the next generation of dancers while sharing their passion and knowledge of the art form.

Dance Therapist: With additional training in therapy, some graduates may pursue careers as dance therapists. This profession utilizes movement as a therapeutic tool to enhance emotional, physical, and mental well-being, helping individuals express themselves and improve their quality of life.

Arts Administrator: Graduates may work in arts administration, managing dance organizations, companies, or festivals. In this capacity, they handle marketing, fundraising, event planning, and community outreach to support the arts and foster public engagement.

Dance Critic or Writer: Some graduates explore careers in writing and criticism, becoming dance critics for publications, blogs, or online platforms. They analyze performances and provide insights that contribute to the broader conversation about dance and its impact.

Costume Designer: Graduates with an interest in the visual aspects of dance can become costume designers, creating and selecting costumes for performances that enhance the overall artistic vision and storytelling of the production.

Dance Production Specialist: Those interested in the technical side of dance may work as production specialists, overseeing the logistics of performances, including lighting, sound, and stage management, ensuring that productions run smoothly.

Freelance Artist: Many graduates opt for a freelance career, taking on various projects that may include performing, teaching, and creating choreography. This option allows for flexibility and the opportunity to work on diverse artistic endeavors.

Community Dance Leader: Graduates can engage in community dance initiatives, leading workshops and classes that promote dance as a means of cultural expression and community building, emphasizing the role of dance in social and cultural contexts.