Program Overview

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance, Education Concentration

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance, Education Concentration, offered by Colorado State University, is a rigorous classical and contemporary dance program. This degree requires a strong physical and mental commitment and an eagerness to learn and improve.

Program Overview

The B.F.A. in Dance with a concentration in dance education prepares students to teach in elementary and secondary schools, dance studios, and the community at large, with field experience in all three areas. Each dance education class involves supervised teaching and field experience, giving students extensive professional experience while in the program. Students have multiple opportunities to apply practical and theoretical knowledge in tangible ways. The degree equips students to apply for dance teaching licensure (grades P-12) in the state of Colorado in conjunction with CSU’s Center for Educator Preparation.

Program Details

• Dance students receive in-depth training in pedagogy, classical, contemporary, and urban dance techniques and performance, and choreography.
• This holistic approach also includes anatomy and kinesiology, music for dance, production design, and career development.
• The program strives to center equitable teaching practices and philosophies that reflect best teaching practices.
• Beginning in the first year, students are eligible to perform in five annually produced dance concerts.

Program-Level Learning Objectives

• Apply research, assessment, critical thinking, and advocacy skills to develop best pedagogical practices as a dance teacher in elementary and secondary schools, dance studios, and the community at large.
• Assess the backgrounds, abilities, developmental levels, and individual identities of students and plan a curriculum that considers their physical, intellectual, social, and emotional development.
• Explore the multitude of ways in which community engagement is embedded in dance, embracing diversity, equity, inclusion, and leadership.
• Demonstrate technical and artistic achievement in the areas of classical, contemporary, and urban dance performance, teaching, and choreography.
• Create solo, group, and site-specific choreography utilizing established and inventive devices and movement vocabulary.
• Interpret and perform original and historic repertoire with confidence and discuss the development and significance of dance forms across cultures.

Focus Areas

The B.F.A. in Dance Education consists of 120 total credits, including the following:

• Technique, Performance, and Repertoire
• Choreography and Improvisation
• Pedagogy and Teaching Methodologies
• History and Theory
• Technical Production and Design
• Guest Artists and Masterclasses

Conclusion

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance, Education Concentration, at Colorado State University offers a comprehensive education in dance, preparing students for careers in teaching, performance, and choreography. With its rigorous curriculum and extensive performance opportunities, this program provides students with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the field of dance education.