Dec 04, 2024  
2010-2011 University Catalog 
    
2010-2011 University Catalog [Archived Catalogue]

Dance Education - Bachelor of Fine Arts


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Program Total Credits: 130

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance Education The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Dance Education is a program designed specifically for students whose primary intention is to enter the profession as a dance teacher. Although there is currently no Pennsylvania state certification for dance teachers, this program includes supervised class-teaching in schools, and/or private dance studios. The BFA in Dance Education is designed as a full-time four-year program with a total requirement of 130 credits. Students choosing to pursue the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance Education continue dance technique studies in one major area and one non-major area of concentration. The culmination of the program is an internship as a student teacher.

Freshman Year - Dance Core Credits: 32


The core curriculum is in the first two years in the School of Dance is common to all Bachelor of Fine Arts programs. These required courses develop a solid foundation from which students pursue their specific areas of interest.

The curriculum has been carefully organized to allow students to grow to their maximum potential as dancers. It has been developed over the years by professionals who are experienced in the world of dance and its demands.

Daily technique classes in ballet, modern dance, and jazz dance are basic to all courses of study, and are the heart of the program. One year of tap is required. Each student must be familiar with all major styles of dance in order to become as versatile as possible. Dance electives offered every semester include African dance, Spanish dance, Brazilian dance, Character, pointe, men’s class, partnering, Pilates, and yoga.

In addition to the rigorous study of technique, the dance curriculum includes:

  1. Creative subjects, such as improvisation and composition.
  2. Academic dance subjects, such as dance history, music, anatomy/kinesiology, pedagogy.
  3. Ensembles, repertory, and other performing courses.
  4. Free electives including voice, acting, and visual arts courses.

Fall Credits: 16


Spring Credits: 16


Sophomore Year - Dance Core Credits: 32


At the end of the first semester of the Sophomore year, all BFA in Dance candidates are required to complete a juried Upper-Divisional Exam. At this time, students apply to a specific major – Ballet, Jazz, Modern, or Dance Education – by filling out a Declaration of Major Request Form, provided by the School of Dance.

Fall Credits: 16


  • DAPF 8XX - Dance Ensemble Credits: 1 cr

Spring Credits: 16


  • DAPF 8XX - Dance Ensemble Credits: 1 cr

Junior Year Credits: 34


Fall Credits: 18


  • DAPF 3X1 - Major Technique Credits: 4 cr 
  • DAPF XXX - Dance for Non-Majors Credits: 1 cr 

Spring Credits: 16


  • DAPF 3X2 - Major Technique Credits: 4 cr
  • DAPF XXX - Dance for Non-Majors Credits: 1 cr

Senior Year Credits: 32


Fall Credits: 17


  • DAPF 4X1 - Major Technique Credits: 4 cr
  • DAPF XXX - Dance for Non-Majors Credits: 1 cr

Spring Credits: 15


Liberal Arts Distribution


Note all liberal arts courses are 3 credits.

*LAPI courses may be taken in any term, but are recommended for Juniors and Seniors.

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