Dance BA
Study of dance as an artistic, physical, and cultural practice, combining performance, choreography, technique, and critical reflection to develop expressive, creative, and professional dancers.
Is this for you?
This degree could suit you if you:
Are passionate about dance
Enjoy physical expression
Want to perform or teach
Like practical learning
Are committed and energetic
Popular Career Fields
Theatre & Performing Arts
Education
Events & Entertainment
Arts & Culture
Your Personality Might Be:
Physical discipline
Education
Collaborative spirit
Resilient performer
What is it?
What is a Dance degree?
A Dance degree focuses on dance performance, choreography, and movement practice alongside critical and contextual study.
You’ll train in a range of dance techniques (such as contemporary, ballet, jazz, or urban styles, depending on the course), while exploring choreography, improvisation, somatic practice, and dance theory.
The degree balances practical studio-based learning with reflection, analysis, and creative development.
It is ideal for students who want to pursue dance as a performance art, work in creative industries, or develop transferable skills through embodied learning.
Why study Dance?
If you are passionate about movement, performance, and creative expression, a Dance degree offers both artistic depth and professional preparation.
It helps you to:
Develop advanced technical and performance skills
Explore choreography and creative authorship
Understand the cultural, historical, and social contexts of dance
Build confidence, discipline, and physical awareness
Prepare for careers in performance, education, and the creative industries
Dance degrees also develop strong communication, teamwork, and self-management skills.
Course Summary
Study of dance as an artistic, physical, and cultural practice, combining performance, choreography, technique, and critical reflection to develop expressive, creative, and professional dancers.
What you'll study
Most Dance degrees cover:
Dance technique and performance practice
Choreography and composition
Improvisation and creative exploration
Dance history, theory, and analysis
Somatic practice, anatomy, and wellbeing
Professional practice and career development
Skills You'll Gain
A Dance degree builds creative and practical skills including:
Performance and movement skills – enabling expressive, confident, and technically strong dancing.
Creative and choreographic thinking – supporting original movement creation and artistic voice.
Physical awareness and wellbeing – helping you train safely and sustainably.
Collaboration and communication – preparing you to work effectively with performers and creatives.
Reflective and critical practice – allowing you to evaluate and develop your work thoughtfully.
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Pathways, Placements and Work Experience
CAREERS
Career Pathways
Graduates pursue careers in:
Professional dance performance
Choreography and creative direction
Community and participatory dance
Dance education and teaching (with further training)
Arts administration and production
Movement direction for theatre or film
Work Experiences & Placements
Dance degrees often encourage students to gain professional experience alongside their studies.
Some programmes offer placement modules, work-based learning, or industry projects, while others support students in finding experience independently.
Typical opportunities include:
Dance companies or independent choreographers
Community dance and outreach programmes
Arts organisations and festivals
Schools, colleges, or youth dance projects
Fitness, wellbeing, or movement-based roles
Students are also encouraged to attend auditions, workshops, and summer intensives.
Salary Profile
Coming soon
Qualifications, Personal Satement, What to do Next?
AM I ELIGIBLE?
Entry Requirements
A-levels or equivalent. Most universities and dance schools accept a broad range of subjects. Dance, Drama, or Performing Arts are beneficial but not essential.
Personal Statement Tips
Explain your interest in dance and performance practice.
Mention styles, training, or performance experience.
Reflect on what inspires your movement or creativity.
Highlight commitment, discipline, and collaboration skills.
What to do Next
Gain regular dance training and performance experience.
Attend workshops, classes, and live performances.
Research courses with strong performance opportunities.
Build physical resilience and awareness of dancer wellbeing.
Wider Reading
The Intimate Act of Choreography – Lynne Anne Blom & L. Tarin Chaplin
A practical guide to creating and structuring dance works.Dance Anatomy – Jacqui Greene Haas
An essential text for understanding the body in dance.The Creative Habit – Twyla Tharp
Insightful reflections on creativity, discipline, and artistic life.Dancing Lives – Janet Lansdale
Explores the professional realities and identities of dancers.