Dance Degree Programs - Dean College

Dean College's Dance Degree Program offers a comprehensive education in various dance styles, combining technical training with a liberal arts curriculum. It emphasizes real-world experience, performance opportunities, and specialized tracks in Dance Pedagogy, Performance/Choreography, Dance Studies, and Studio Management. The program prepares students for diverse careers in the dance field, including performance, choreography, teaching, and studio management.

Program Outline

Dance Degree Program at Dean College: A Comprehensive Breakdown

Based on the provided context, here's a detailed extraction of the Dance program at Dean College:

Degree Overview:

Objectives:

The program aims to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in various professional pathways within the dance field, including performance, choreography, teaching, and studio management.
It emphasizes conservatory-level training coupled with a well-rounded liberal arts education, fostering both artistic development and intellectual growth.
The program seeks to cultivate well-rounded individuals who are not only skilled performers but also entrepreneurs, artists, and critical thinkers.

Description:

The program offers a Bachelor of Arts in Dance through the Joan Phelps Palladino School of Dance.
It boasts a long-standing reputation as a nationally recognized educational center for dance, being the only college in New England to offer both associate and bachelor's degree programs in Dance.
The program emphasizes a rigorous and comprehensive approach, combining technical training in various dance styles with an academic curriculum encompassing dance history, composition, pedagogy, kinesiology, and writing for the arts.
It provides students with ample opportunities to perform, create, and gain real-world experience starting from their first year.
The program allows students to choose a specific track based on their area of interest: Dance Pedagogy, Performance/Choreography, Dance Studies, or Studio Management.
It complements the dance training with a liberal arts core, allowing students to explore other fields and broaden their career options by adding a double major or minor.

Outline:

Content:

The program encompasses a diverse range of dance styles, including ballet, modern, jazz, hip-hop, tap, and more.
It includes both theoretical and practical components, covering areas such as dance history, composition, pedagogy, kinesiology, and writing for the arts.
It offers specialized courses catering to specific tracks like Dance Pedagogy, Performance/Choreography, Dance Studies, and Studio Management.

Structure:

The program is designed to be completed over four years, leading to a Bachelor of Arts degree.
It follows a semester-based system, with each semester focusing on specific areas of dance and academics.
The program provides students with numerous opportunities to perform and showcase their work, both on and off campus.

Course Schedule:

The exact course schedule may vary depending on the chosen track and the student's individual academic plan.
However, the program provides a sample curriculum outlining the typical course sequence for each track.
This information can be found on the Dean College website under the "Academics" section.

Individual Modules:

Each track within the program comprises specific modules focusing on different aspects of dance.
For example, the Dance Pedagogy track includes modules on teaching methods, curriculum development, and classroom management.
The Performance/Choreography track includes modules on performance techniques, improvisation, and choreography.
More detailed information about individual modules can be found on the Dean College website under the "Majors & Degrees" section.

Assessment:

Assessment Methods:

The program utilizes various assessment methods to evaluate student learning and progress.
These methods include written assignments, practical performances, presentations, and participation in class discussions.
Some modules may also incorporate specific projects or examinations.

Assessment Criteria:

The program uses specific criteria to assess student work, focusing on technical proficiency, artistic expression, creativity, critical thinking, and effective communication.
The assessment criteria may vary depending on the specific module and assessment method.

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, demonstrations, workshops, rehearsals, and individual coaching.
The focus is on creating an interactive and engaging learning environment that encourages active participation and critical reflection.

Faculty:

The program boasts a dedicated faculty of experienced and accomplished dance professionals.
The faculty members have extensive backgrounds in performance, choreography, and teaching, ensuring students receive high-quality instruction and guidance.

Unique Approaches:

The program incorporates several unique approaches to enhance the student learning experience.
These include:
Real-world experience opportunities starting from the first year, allowing students to perform, choreograph, and engage in professional settings.
Access to state-of-the-art facilities, including the Guidrey Center and the Main Stage Theatre.
Specialized injury prevention and care services provided by a full-time certified athletic trainer.
Master classes with renowned dancers and choreographers from prestigious companies and organizations.

Careers:

Potential Career Paths:

The program prepares students for a wide range of career opportunities in the dance field, including:
Performers: dancers in professional companies, studios, and independent productions.
Choreographers: creating original dance pieces for various settings.
Teachers: dance instructors in schools, studios, and community programs.
Studio Management: managing and operating dance studios and performance spaces.
Dance Therapists: using dance to promote physical and emotional well-being.
Dance Journalists: writing about dance for various publications and media outlets.
Dance Critics: analyzing and evaluating dance performances.
Arts Administrators: managing and directing dance organizations and institutions.

Career Opportunities:

The program has a strong track record of preparing students for successful careers in dance.
Graduates have secured positions with renowned organizations such as the Boston Ballet, Disney Corporation, The Rockettes, Norwegian Cruise Lines, and others.
The program's emphasis on a well-rounded education and real-world experience equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in a competitive industry.

Other:

Notable Features:

The program has been recognized as the #4 Best Dance School (Undergraduate) in Massachusetts by the PLEXUSS Global Rankings.
The program offers numerous performance opportunities both on and off-campus, allowing students to gain valuable experience and showcase their talents.
The program provides access to state-of-the-art facilities, including the Guidrey Center and the Main Stage Theatre.
The program facilitates internships and other professional development opportunities to help students build their network and gain industry experience.

Additional Information:

The program encourages students to explore their interests and develop their individual artistic identities.
The program emphasizes the importance of collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking in the pursuit of artistic excellence.
For the most up-to-date information, please refer to the official Dean College website or contact the Joan Phelps Palladino School of Dance directly.