Program Overview
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance from Dean College is a rigorous undergraduate course of study for aspiring professional dancers. In the Joan Phelps Palladino School of Dance, students train under veteran performers, directors, and choreographers who prepare them for their big break. A professional dance education immerses students in the physical artistry of dance in all its forms, as well as the history, theory, and power of creative expression.
Program Details
- The program offers conservatory-level training in ballet, jazz, tap, modern, and related techniques, combined with targeted allied studies.
- Students develop the skill and artistry necessary for a successful career as a performer or choreographer.
- Applicants to the School of Dance BFA major are required to choose one of two specialized tracks prior to the audition:
- Choreography
- Performance
Choreography Track
In the choreography track, students engage with each step of the choreographic process and learn how to develop and communicate their own artistic vision. They gain a sophisticated understanding of dance making, dance concert production, problem-solving, and effective communication.
Performance Track
The performance track hones students' strength and discipline through conservatory-style training in the studio and on the stage. Students learn and engage in skill sets, practices, and perspectives of today's professional-level dance.
Program Requirements
Prospective students are required to complete an audition for the Dance BFA program as well as an application for admission.
Beyond the Classroom
In addition to countless creative and performance opportunities on campus, students gain invaluable industry experience through:
- Completing a for-credit internship with a local or regional dance company or choreographer.
- Participating in highly selective performances at venues such as the Kennedy Center, Joyce Theater, Ailey Citigroup Theater, and American College Dance Festival (ACDF).
- The Joan Phelps Palladino School of Dance has earned a reputation for producing truly gifted and hardworking young dancers.
Alumni Achievements
Dean College dance majors have interned at renowned institutions such as Jacob's Pillow, Lincoln Center, Battery Dance Company, Broadway Dance Center, Rhee Gold, Boston Ballet, and the National Dance Education Organization. Alumni have found successful careers with dance and performing arts companies like Universal Studios, Disney Corporation, Norwegian Cruise Lines, Urbanity Dance Company, and Boston Ballet.
Space to Learn and Perform
As a Dance major at Dean, students have plenty of opportunities to take the stage in first-class performance and teaching venues, study on-stage and behind-the-scenes techniques, and receive support from talented faculty and staff. The Guidrey Center and the Main Stage Theatre are two of the state-of-the-art venues where students learn and perform.
Uniquely Dean
The Dean College Dance BFA program offers unique programming, including:
- Beginning to perform and create a body of work in the first semester.
- Experiencing live music in class from talented staff musicians.
- Receiving rigorous conservatory-style dance training enriched by a well-rounded liberal arts education.
- Participating in master classes with dancers from Boston Ballet, Cirque du Soleil, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Broadway, Ballet West, The Martha Graham Dance Company, and Complexions Dance company.
- Completing a for-credit internship with a professional dance company or choreographer.
- Finding professional opportunities through Dean College's extensive dance alumni network.