Introduction to the Dance Studies MA Program

The University of Limerick offers a one-year, full-time Master of Arts (MA) in Dance Studies designed for experienced dancers in various forms, including Irish, Ballet, Contemporary, and others. This program aims to deepen students' academic and reflective practice, supporting them in contextualizing their performance experience through critical engagement with theory, ethnography, and cultural analysis.

Program Overview

During this program, students will develop theoretical and practical knowledge of diverse dance repertoires, critically engage with ethnographic research methods and fieldwork techniques, explore dance forms in cultural and ritual contexts, and learn to document and reflect on dance practice through writing, media technologies, and interdisciplinary approaches. The program culminates in a final presentation or dissertation, allowing students to showcase their research or performance at a professional level.

Program Content

The MA in Dance Studies is delivered over one year, with modules taught during the autumn and spring semesters. Students submit their dissertation at the end of the summer semester. The program includes a blend of lectures, workshops, hands-on activities, reflective practice, and guided research, with regular feedback from faculty and peers.

Autumn Semester

• Repertoire and Style in Dance Performance 1: Introduces students to the repertoires of diverse dance performance practices.
• Dance Ethnography: Critically engages students in discourses surrounding ethnographic research methodologies.
• Introduction to Fieldwork Techniques: Introduces basic elements of fieldwork, including ethical principles, participant observation, and interview techniques.
• Introduction to Ritual Studies: Equips students with knowledge of the emergence and development of ritual studies as an interdisciplinary discourse.
• Electives: Students choose two from a list of options, including Academic Literacies for International Postgraduate Students, Media Technologies for Performing Arts and Arts Research, Independent Study, Introduction to Somatics, Writing and the Documentation of Arts Practice, Critical Engagements with Irish Traditional Music, and Colloquium.

Spring Semester

• Repertoire and Style in Dance Performance 2: Extends theoretical and practical knowledge of repertoires and styles in diverse dance performance practices.
• Contextualising Dance Performance: Introduces students to a range of dance forms through an exploration of performance examples in current cultural contexts and links them to their genealogical roots.
• Electives: Students choose two from the list provided in the autumn semester.

Summer Semester

• Final Presentation Dissertation: Equips students to perform specialist repertoire at the standard of a public recital or conduct a research project to the level of a master's standard dissertation or a combination of both.

Entry Requirements

Applicants should hold a bachelor's degree (NFQ Level 8) with at least a second-class honour, grade 2 (2:2) in a relevant or appropriate subject. The university may shortlist and invite applicants to an interview and audition if necessary. International students are encouraged to apply, with details on country-specific qualifications available.

Fees

• Distance (EU): €7,800
• Distance (Non-EU): €17,900
• Full-Time (EU): €7,995
• Full-Time (Non-EU): €18,000

Annual fees are billed by semester, with options for a monthly payment plan. Further information on fees and payment is available from the Student Fees Office.

Graduate Profile

This course can lead to careers in dance performance, dance pedagogy, dance research, and related fields, equipping graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary for professional practice or further academic research.

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Outline:

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Year Long program

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Semester 1 Autumn 30 Credits

• MD6502 Repertoire and Style in Dance Performance 1 12 Credits
• DA6021 Dance Ethnography 6 Credits
• MD6021 Introduction to Fieldwork Techniques 3 Credits
• MD6041 Introduction to Ritual Studies 3 Credits
• Two Elective options

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Semester 2 Spring 30 Credits

• MD6502 Repertoire and Style in Dance Performance 2 12 Credits
• MD6402 Contextualising Dance Performance 12 Credits

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Semester 3 Summer Final Presentation 30 Credits

• MD5522 Final Presentation Dissertation

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Elective Options

• AW6001 Academic Literacies for International Postgraduate Students*(compulsory)
• MD6051 Independent Study 1
• MD6061 Introduction to Somatics
• MD6071 Writing and the Documentation of Arts Practice
• MD6081Critical Engagements with Irish Traditional Music
• MD6111 Colloquium
• Advanced Dance in Health
• Advanced Dance Pedagogy
• Advanced Dance Studies
• MD6052 Independent Study 2
• MD6062 Critical Contexts for Arts Management and Cultural Policy
• MD6072 Writing and the Documentation of Practice 2
• MD6082 Choreography for Camera
• DA6002 Critical Encounters with Irish Traditional Dance
• MD6092 Introduction to Somatics 2
• MD6102 Colloquium 2
• MD6162 Interdisciplinary Practice

University of Limerick

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Overview:

University of Limerick (UL) is a public research university located in Limerick, Ireland. It is known for its strong academic programs, vibrant campus life, and commitment to research and innovation. UL is ranked among the top 3% of universities worldwide and is a leading institution in Ireland for its contributions to research, teaching, and community engagement.

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Services Offered:

UL offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

Library:

The Glucksman Library provides access to a vast collection of books, journals, and digital resources.

Student Gateway:

This online portal provides access to student information, course materials, and other important resources.

Accommodation:

On-campus accommodation options are available for students, with a variety of choices to suit different needs and budgets.

Cafés and Restaurants:

The campus has a variety of dining options, including cafes, restaurants, and a student-run Coop.

Sports Facilities:

UL Sport offers a wide range of sports facilities and activities for students, including a state-of-the-art sports arena.

Student Support Services:

The university provides a range of support services to students, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health services.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

UL offers a vibrant and diverse campus experience, with a strong emphasis on student engagement and community involvement. Students can participate in a wide range of clubs, societies, and events, both on and off campus. The university also has a strong focus on sustainability and social responsibility, with initiatives aimed at promoting environmental awareness and community engagement.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Strong Academic Programs:

UL offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, with a focus on research and innovation.

Vibrant Campus Life:

The university provides a dynamic and engaging campus experience, with a wide range of opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities and social events.

Research Excellence:

UL is a leading research institution in Ireland, with a strong focus on innovation and collaboration.

International Focus:

The university has a strong international focus, with a diverse student body and a commitment to global engagement.

Location:

UL is located in Limerick, a vibrant city with a rich history and culture.

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Academic Programs:

UL offers a wide range of academic programs across seven faculties:

Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences:

This faculty offers programs in areas such as history, law, modern languages, politics, English, Irish, and sociology.

Education and Health Sciences:

This faculty offers programs in areas such as physical education, psychology, medicine, education, nursing, and allied health.

Kemmy Business School:

This faculty offers programs in areas such as accounting, finance, economics, management, and marketing.

Science and Engineering:

This faculty offers programs in areas such as computer science, electronic engineering, mathematics, statistics, design, and engineering.

Irish World Academy of Music and Dance:

This academy offers programs in traditional Irish music and dance.

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Other: