Bachelor’s (BA) Degree in Dance

Q: What can I do with a dance degree?

Dance majors are typically detail oriented, goal-setting professionals who may excel in many areas of art. While dance, choreography and teaching are obvious career paths for dance majors, the training received in a dancing degree can also translate into strong communication and non-verbal skills, problem-solving skills and teamwork, which can open the door to a variety of career opportunities.

Pursue Your Passion as a Dance Major at GCU

A Bachelor of Arts in Dance degree from Grand Canyon University (GCU) can help equip you to position yourself for potential career opportunities in the arts industry. Dance majors who graduate from this program may enter professional industries of concert dance, commercial dance or musical theatre. Those who pursue a dance BA offered by the College of Arts and Media at GCU may be prepared to attend graduate school in a diverse set of areas including dance therapy, choreography performance and business.

As a dance major at GCU, you will have the opportunity to engage in creative collaboration and varied movement practices to cultivate your artistic skills and processes. The bachelor’s degree in dance supports dance artists by teaching them how to communicate effectively through movement and reach broad audiences. Dance artists often work for themselves and can pursue a range of career opportunities.

An audition is required for acceptance into the Bachelor of Arts in Dance degree program.

Study How to Grow as a Dancer, Choreographer and Artist

Dancers who are admitted to GCU’s dance BA program are already skilled. The program is designed to enhance existing expertise in ballet, modern, jazz, tap and hip-hop.

Dancing technique courses are offered at five levels and, as a dance major, you can also participate in master classes and guest artist intensives. At GCU, you are taught how to grow as a dancer, choreographer and artist.

Choosing this dance program at GCU can help prepare you with advanced coursework that is necessary to:

Perform various dance forms with technical proficiency and self-expression
Choreograph for professional dance concerts
Plan and direct productions

Teach dance and related subjects
Integrate dance, technology, and media
Pursue related studies (e.g. dance medicine, dance therapy)

Your BA in Dance at GCU can help you gain experiences to pursue professional roles, such as performing and participating in concert productions such as the Winter and Spring Dance Concerts, the GCU Elementary Dance Tour and Student Spotlight Dance Concerts. Through these programs, GCU faculty can help dance majors cultivate the collaboration, innovation, critical thinking and cultural literacy for a career in dance.

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Button to play video: Winter Dance Concert – Odyssey

True Life of a Dancer

Witness the collaborative spirit and passion that fuels GCU dance students and their performances, offering a glimpse into the vibrant world of dance at GCU.

Benefits of the BA in Dance Program

If you are choosing to major in dance, you likely have a passion for the art of dance and how it can convey the expressions of different cultures. A BA in Dance program is about strengthening your current experiences and knowledge and learning new dance forms. In the classroom, you will be taught the history of various dance techniques and how to bring it into a professional production. In the studio is where you can build upon your previous knowledge in dance in preparation for performances on and off campus.

Career Paths for Graduates With a Bachelor’s in Dance

Graduates with a BA in Dance may have the training to position themselves to pursue many kinds of creative careers. After graduating with a dance BA, you may find work as a dancer or choreographer. Dancers with the skill and drive to continue training can benefit from a dancing degree and join other movement-based artists at GCU.

Earn Your Degree From an Accredited University

Achieve your educational dreams at a trusted and accredited university. GCU secures the excellence and acknowledgment your education deserves by earning accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Accreditation affirms GCU's adherence to rigorous criteria and standards, substantiating the university's commitment to delivering quality academic programs.

TOTAL CREDITS & COURSE LENGTH:

Total Credits: 120
Campus: 15 weeks
[More Info]

TRANSFER CREDITS:

Up to 90 credits, only 84 can be lower division

TUITION RATE:

Campus: $8,250 per semester
[Tuition, Fees and Financial Aid]

Cost of Attendance

Bachelor's Degree in Dance FAQs

Seeking a bachelor's degree is a substantial investment. Explore frequently asked questions about this dance degree program to aid your decision.

What degree do you need to be a dance teacher?

If you choose to step into a formal teaching role in a school setting, most public and private schools will have different requirements for what is needed to be a dance teacher. However, you should expect most requirements to say that you may need a bachelor’s degree in dance as well as a teaching license in the state you wish to teach in. This includes any dance experience you gain through traditional performances.

If an educational dancing degree interests you, GCU offers a Bachelor of Arts in Dance for Secondary Education that is specifically designed for dance education in a classroom setting for middle schools, high schools and community colleges.

Can you major in dance with no experience?

To be accepted into the dance program at GCU you will need to pass the audition requirements. Dancer majors are expected to demonstrate proficiency in a variety of dance techniques during the audition and have had previous dance experience.

Do you have to audition for the BA in Dance program?

Yes. An audition is required for admission into GCU’s bachelor’s in dance program and the dance for secondary education program. In-person auditions will combine ballet, modern and jazz techniques into a one to two-minute solo highlighting your technical abilities. Virtual dance auditions are available to students who cannot attend a live audition. Visit the Audition Requirement section to learn more.

What is the difference between BA and BFA in Dance?

In general, the difference between a Bachelor of Arts (BA) and a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) comes down to the amount of academic focus on the respective topic. In this case for dance majors, a BA will have more exploration into the academic side of dance, including the dance history, kinesiology, somatics and pedagogy. A BA in Dance may also allow dance majors to minor in another area of interest or possibly double major if you so choose.

A BFA in Dance on the other hand is focused more on dance performance to satisfy credit hours. While general education requirements may still be required, it should be expected to have more studio time than classroom time with a BFA in Dance.

What can I do with a dance degree?

Dance majors are typically detail-oriented, goal-setting professionals who may excel in many areas of art. While dance, choreography and teaching are obvious career paths for dance majors, the training received in a dancing degree can also translate into strong communication and non-verbal skills, problem-solving skills and teamwork, which can open the door to various career opportunities.

What degree do you need to be a professional dancer?

To become a professional dancer, you need the muscle strength, flexibility and techniques to potentially turn dance into a career. To achieve this, professional dancers may choose to pursue a bachelor’s in dance to gain formal training.

Enroll today and embark on an extraordinary journey toward realizing your passion for dance with our BA in Dance program. Don't miss out on this opportunity to turn your passion into a profession. Apply now to begin shaping your future as a dancer.

Course List

General Education Requirements:

34-40 credits

Major:

68 credits

Open Elective Credits:

12-18 credits

Degree Requirements:

120 credits

General Education Requirements

General Education coursework prepares Grand Canyon University graduates to think critically, communicate clearly, live responsibly in a diverse world, and thoughtfully integrate their faith and ethical convictions into all dimensions of life. These competencies, essential to an effective and satisfying life, are outlined in the General Education Learner Outcomes. General Education courses embody the breadth of human understanding and creativity contained in the liberal arts and sciences tradition. Students take an array of foundational knowledge courses that promote expanded knowledge, insight, and the outcomes identified in the University’s General Education Competencies. The knowledge and skills students acquire through these courses serve as a foundation for successful careers and lifelong journeys of growing understanding and wisdom.

Competency: University Foundations Total Credits: 4

Requirements

Upon completion of the Grand Canyon University's University Foundation experience, students will be able to demonstrate competency in the areas of academic skills and self-leadership. They will be able to articulate the range of resources available to assist them, explore career options related to their area of study, and have knowledge of Grand Canyon's community. Students will be able to demonstrate foundational academic success skills, explore GCU resources (CLA, Library, Career Center, ADA office, etc), articulate strategies of self-leadership and management and recognize opportunities to engage in the GCU community.

Course Options

UNV-103, University Success: 4
UNV-303, University Success: 4

Competency: Effective Communication Total Credits: 13-16

Requirements

Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to construct rhetorically effective communications appropriate to diverse audiences, purposes, and occasions (English composition, communication, critical reading, foreign language, sign language, etc.). Students are required to take 3 credits of English grammar or composition.

Course Options

ENG-105, English Composition I: 4
UNV-104, 21st Century Skills: Communication and Information Literacy: 4
ENG-106, English Composition II: 4
COM-263, Elements of Intercultural Communication: 4

Competency: Christian Worldview Total Credits: 4

Requirements

Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to express aspects of Christian heritage and worldview. Students are required to take CWV-101/CWV-301.

Course Options

CWV-101, Christian Worldview: 4
CWV-301, Christian Worldview: 4

Competency: Critical Thinking Total Credits: 3-4

Requirements

Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to use various analytic and problem-solving skills to examine, evaluate, and/or challenge ideas and arguments. Students are required to take 3 credits of college mathematics or higher.

Course Options

MAT-144, College Mathematics: 4

Competency: Global Awareness, Perspective and Ethics Total Credits: 10-12

Requirements

Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to demonstrate awareness and appreciation of and empathy for differences in arts and culture, values, experiences, historical perspectives, and other aspects of life (psychology, sociology, government, Christian studies, Bible, geography, anthropology, economics, political science, child and family studies, law, ethics, cross-cultural studies, history, art, music, dance, theater, applied arts, literature, health, etc.). If the predefined course is a part of the major, students need to take an additional course.

Course Options

PSY-102, General Psychology: 4
INT-244, World Religions: 4
SOC-100, Everyday Sociology: 4

Core Courses

DAN-100: Introduction to Ballet Technique Total Credits: 1

Course Description

This course is an introduction to the techniques of the classical ballet, including alignment, positions, port de bras, and allegro combinations. It includes fundamental concepts, skills, movement vocabulary, and artistic expression specific to ballet.

DAN-101: Introduction to Jazz Technique Total Credits: 1

Course Description

This course is an introduction to the style, technique, and rhythmic structures of jazz dance with emphasis on increasing movement capabilities and personal expression. It includes fundamental concepts, skills, movement vocabulary, and artistic expression specific to jazz.

DAN-215: Dance Ensemble Total Credits: 0

Course Description

Required every semester for dance majors except student teaching, this course is designed to prepare the student for a dance concert production in a theatrical setting. Through the rehearsal process and culminating performances, students gain dance proficiency by working in a range of styles and choreographic approaches. Students audition choreography and may be cast as dancers, understudies, stage managers, and production assistants. This course is open to non-majors. Prerequisite: Audition.

DAN-180A: Elementary Dance Tour Total Credits: 0

Course Description

This course is designed to prepare the student for the GCU Elementary Dance Tour, a multi-media production composed through collaboration by faculty and students. Topics include choreography, dramatic dialogue, elementary teaching methods, technical production, and artistic expression in a range of different dance styles. Participation is determined by audition.

DAN-200: Somatics for the Dancer Total Credits: 2

Course Description

This course is a study of somatic practices in dance. Students explore and discuss issues related to one body practice. Topics include body awareness, alignment, injury prevention, and movement observation.

DAN-250: Ballet Technique II Total Credits: 1

Course Description

This technique course is designed to increase skill in classical ballet. It includes intermediate concepts, skills, movement vocabulary, and artistic expression specific to ballet. Prerequisite: DAN-100.

DAN-260: Jazz Technique II Total Credits: 1

Course Description

This course is a refinement of beginning skills, with an emphasis on development of technical abilities and performance qualities. It focuses on intermediate concepts, skills, movement vocabulary, and artistic expression specific to jazz. Prerequisite: DAN-101.

DAN-120: Introduction to Modern Technique Total Credits: 1

Course Description

This course is an introduction to the movement techniques of modern dance. It includes fundamental concepts, skills, movement vocabulary, and artistic expression specific to modern dance.

DAN-180B: Elementary Dance Tour Total Credits: 0

Course Description

DAN-395: Dance Production Total Credits: 4

Course Description

This course is designed to introduce students to the elements of technical theater specific to a dance production and to prepare students to organize a production in a variety of media. The course covers the fundamentals of lighting and costume design; sound/music/video recording and other multimedia devices; and basic elements of production management, such as contracts, labor issues, budgets, facility rentals, marketing and fundraising.

DAN-270: Modern Technique II Total Credits: 1

Course Description

This course is a refinement of beginning skills with an emphasis on development of technical abilities and performance qualities. It includes intermediate concepts, skills, movement vocabulary, and artistic expression specific to modern dance. Prerequisite: DAN-120.

DAN-210: Improvisation for Dance Total Credits: 1

Course Description

This course focuses on creating and developing movement through dance improvisation in solos, duets, and groups. Contact improvisation and partnering, the uses of improvisation in choreography and performance, and the creative process are explored. Students are guided toward finding their own artistic voice through movement, discussion, and writing.

DAN-305: Hip Hop I Total Credits: 1

Course Description

This course is an introduction to the style, technique, and foundation of Hip Hop movement and culture. Students will explore Hip Hop styles with emphasis on Freestyle development, cultural understanding, and the Five Elements of Hip Hop. Development of proficiency includes fundamental concepts, skills, movement vocabulary, artistic expression, theory and practice specific to Hip Hop culture. Students will explore Hip Hop dance through historical and social views as well as exposure to some Street Style dances. This course is available for non-majors.

DAN-350: Ballet Technique III Total Credits: 1

Course Description

This course is designed to increase skill in classical ballet technique. It includes advanced concepts, skills, movement vocabulary, and artistic expression specific to ballet. Prerequisite: DAN-250.

DAN-360: Jazz Technique III Total Credits: 1

Course Description

This course is designed to increase skill in jazz technique. It includes advanced concepts, skills, movement vocabulary, and artistic expression specific to jazz. Prerequisite: DAN-260.

DAN-370: Modern Technique III Total Credits: 1

Course Description

This course focuses on the exercises and activities necessary to develop strength, flexibility, endurance, and technical dance skill. It includes advanced concepts, skills, movement vocabulary, and artistic expression specific to modern dance. Prerequisite: DAN-270.

DAN-355: Dance Kinesiology and Injury Prevention Total Credits: 4

Course Description

This writing intensive course focuses on the anatomical and mechanical principles that relate to human movement; the analysis, management, and prevention of dance injuries; the analysis of body types and technical ability; and the means by which to improve dance ability. Aspects of teaching safe technique classes and alternative methods will also be explored.

DAN-375: Choreography I: Space and Time/Design and Dance Total Credits: 2

Course Description

This course focuses on the elements of time, space, and energy as related to choreographic design. It is a study of these primary dance elements and their intrinsic role in developing diverse understandings of dance. The course considers design in the related fields of music and art as relevant to choreographic design and communication in dance. Practicum/field experience hours: None. Students needing field experience hours should take DAN-385N.

DAN-405: Hip Hop II Total Credits: 1

Course Description

This course is a continuation of the style, technique, and foundation of Hip Hop movement and culture. Students will explore Hip Hop styles with emphasis on proficiency in Freestyle dance, social competence, and the practice of the Five Elements of Hip Hop. Students will develop proficiency in choreography, groove, theory, and practice specific to Hip Hop culture. Students will continue to explore Hip Hop dance through present social views and gain further exposure to some Street Style dances. This course is available for non-majors. Prerequisite: DAN-305.

DAN-315: Dance History I Total Credits: 4

Course Description

This writing intensive course is a study of the histories and aesthetic systems of selected world dance traditions emphasizing interconnections between aesthetic practice, religious and social needs, and the impact of cultural convergence on dance.

DAN-322: Dance Technology Total Credits: 2

Course Description

This course explores the innovative intersection of dance and technology using a variety of digital tools and media. Students will learn ways to integrate technology to enhance dance creation, performance, and promotion. Key topics include copyright law, audio editing and design, videography in dance, applying technology to project design, technology for personal branding, and social media.

DAN-390: Choreography II: Process Total Credits: 2

Course Description

This course is a study of and experience in various approaches to the choreographic process as related to artistic concepts and to the philosophy of art as espoused by various traditional and contemporary dance artists and as developed by the individual student. Prerequisite: DAN-385N or DAN-375.

DAN-353: Ballet Technique IV Total Credits: 1

Course Description

This advanced course is designed to increase technical proficiency and performance skill in classical ballet technique. It includes advanced concepts, skills, movement vocabulary, and artistic expression specific to classical ballet. Prerequisite: DAN-350.

DAN-363: Jazz Technique IV Total Credits: 1

Course Description

This advanced course is designed to increase technical proficiency and performance skill in jazz technique. It includes advanced concepts, skills, movement vocabulary, and artistic expression specific to jazz. Prerequisite: DAN-360.

DAN-340: Dance History II Total Credits: 4

Course Description

This writing intensive course is a comprehensive comparative study of Western theatrical dance forms. The focus is on significant trends and individuals who shaped the development of modern dance, ballet, jazz, and vernacular dance, from ancient Greece to the modern era.

DAN-475: Dance in Sacred Contexts Total Credits: 4

Course Description

This course will examine dance within both Christian and non-Christian contexts. Students will apply this knowledge to design dances, text and other materials for ministry, worship services, workshops, and outreach.

DAN-373: Modern Technique IV Total Credits: 1

Course Description

This advanced course is designed to increase technical proficiency and performance skill in modern technique. It includes advanced concepts, skills, movement vocabulary, and artistic expression specific to modern dance. Prerequisite: DAN-370.

DAN-453: Ballet Technique V Total Credits: 1

Course Description

In this course, ballet technique will be studied to enhance mastery in technical and artistic expression. This course will examine pointe for women and conditioning for men, in preparation for partnering work. Partnering skills and classical ballet variations will be included for both men and women.

DAN-455: Dance Pedagogy Total Credits: 2

Course Description

This course encompasses traditional and contemporary approaches of dance education and examines effective teaching practices in settings including elementary and secondary schools, private dance organizations, and community-based settings. Prerequisite: DAN-355.

DAN-470: Choreography III: Performance Total Credits: 2

Course Description

This course is a supervised experience in choreographing a dance for public performance arranged through a cooperative effort of the student and supervisor. Prerequisite: DAN-390.

BUS-302: Business for the Professional Creative Total Credits: 4

Course Description

This course will prepare students for success as creative professionals. Students will research their industry, develop their personal brand, and establish business and entrepreneurial practices.

DAN-410: Commercial Dance Total Credits: 2

Course Description

This class is designed for the pre-professional dancer. Students will further their studies in commercial-style dance or a blend of jazz, street, and hip hop as seen in the entertainment industry. Students will experience fast-paced choreography to enhance their mastery of technical and artistic expression. This course will include mock auditions and informal performance opportunities to reflect professional contexts in commercial dance to prepare students to succeed as professional performers. Prerequisite: DAN-360.

DAN-463: Jazz Technique V Total Credits: 1

Course Description

This course is designed for the pre-professional dancer. Jazz dance technique will be studied to enhance mastery in technical and artistic expression. Jazz studies in this course will include mock auditions and informal performance opportunities to reflect professional contexts such as commercial dance and musical theatre. Prerequisite: DAN-363.

DAN-300: Alignment and Pilates for Dance Total Credits: 2

Course Description

This course addresses alignment for dancers, using Pilates mat exercises. The course addresses how breath , strength, and coordination may facilitate greater ease and efficiency in movement.

DAN-302: Tap I Total Credits: 1

Course Description

This course is an introduction to the style, technique, and rhythmic structures of tap dance with emphasis on increasing movement capabilities and personal expression. It includes fundamental concepts, skills, movement vocabulary, and artistic expression specific to tap. Students will explore tap dance through historical, social, and improvisational contexts. This course is available for non-majors.

DAN-430: Dance Research Seminar I Total Credits: 2

Course Description

This course provides an opportunity for students to define their career goals and to network in preparation for a career and/or further dance studies. Students will explore current issues and career trends in dance. Topics will include professional portfolio creation, statement of artistic philosophy, academic research skills and business applications.

DAN-490: Dance Administration & Entrepreneurship Total Credits: 4

Course Description

This course is an introduction to the practical and applicable skills involved with starting, managing, and flourishing as an entrepreneur in arts administration. Critical thinking and problem-solving skills will be applied to all aspects of managing and marketing for arts and cultural organizations. The implementation of these skills will give artists an insight into the many career options that are available above and beyond being onstage performers, including careers in entrepreneurial, non-profit, and for-profit organizations.

DAN-402: Tap II Total Credits: 1

Course Description

This course is a continuation of the style, technique, and rhythmic structures of tap dance. Students will explore various tap styles with emphasis on increasing movement capabilities and personal expression. Development of proficiency includes fundamental concepts, skills, movement vocabulary, and artistic expression specific to tap dance. Students will explore tap dance through historical, social, aesthetic and improvisational contexts. Students will also develop basic choreography skills, and learn how to combine steps to formulate dances. Prerequisite: DAN-302.

DAN-473: Modern V Total Credits: 1

Course Description

This course is designed for the pre-professional dancer. Advanced modern dance technique will be studied to enhance mastery in technical and artistic expression. Prerequisite: DAN-373.

DAN-435: Dance Research Seminar II Total Credits: 2

Course Description

This course is a continuation of Dance Research Seminar I, which provides an opportunity for students to define their career goals and to network in preparation for a career and/or further dance studies. Students will explore current issues and career trends in dance. Topics will include professional portfolio creation, statement of artistic philosophy, academic research skills and business applications. Prerequisite: DAN-430.

Locations

GCU Campus Student

Campus

Join Grand Canyon University’s vibrant and growing campus community, with daytime classes designed for traditional students. Immerse yourself in a full undergraduate experience, complete with curriculum designed within the context of our Christian worldview.

* Please note that this list may contain programs and courses not presently offered, as availability may vary depending on class size, enrollment and other contributing factors. If you are interested in a program or course listed herein please first contact your University Counselor for the most current information regarding availability.

* Please refer to the Academic Catalog for more information. Programs or courses subject to change.