Program Overview
Dance BA Program
The BA in Dance at Montclair State University blends rigorous artistry with hands-on teaching practice, preparing students to lead classes in Pre-K12 schools, studios, community centers, and beyond. The program offers two teaching-focused concentrations, allowing students to take technique and choreography courses alongside BFA dancers for a high-caliber studio experience.
Why Montclair?
- Real-World Teaching: Start leading classes early and graduate ready to educate children, teens, and adults.
- Performance Every Semester: Dance on campus in three well-equipped theatres, at local schools, and on renowned stages like NYCs Joyce Theater.
- Inclusive Community: The anti-biased, anti-racist curriculum celebrates diverse voices, bodies, and traditions.
- NYC at Your Doorstep: Study with guest artists, see world-class performances, and land internshipsjust 30 minutes away.
- National Recognition: Named one of DanceUS.orgs Best College Dance Programs for 2025.
- Accredited: The Montclair State BFA in Dance is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Dance, which has high standards for dance degree programs and assesses them every 10 years.
Program Format and Details
- Program Format: In-person
- College or School: College of the Arts
- Area of Study: Arts, Culture, and Design
- Concentrations Offered:
- Dance Studio Teaching
- Dance Education with P-12 Certification
- Cost Information: In-state tuition is $7,839 per semester.
Dance Concentrations
Dance Studio Teaching
Prepare to work in a dance studio or lead your own. This concentration combines dance, education, and business training to prepare students for a career in studio instruction. Students take four business courses covering marketing, finance, and management that count toward a Business minor, plus complete a studio internship for real-world experience.
Dance Education with P-12 Certification
Teach dance and inspire students. The BA in Dance with a Dance Education concentration prepares students to become certified dance teachers in New Jersey public schools (P12). Students apply to the Teacher Education program, typically in the spring of their sophomore year. Once accepted, they add Secondary Education as a second major.
Graduation Requirements
To graduate from either concentration, students must complete 120 credits with a minimum 3.0 overall GPA and meet all major-specific GPA and performance review requirements.
Audition Pre-Screen Requirement
To be considered for admission to Montclair State Universitys Dance program, students must submit a 23 minute pre-screen audition video. This video determines whether they advance to a full audition.
Video Guidelines
- Perform a solo in modern or contemporary dance.
- The video must be recorded within the past 6 months.
- At the start of the video, state or display: full name, state, and the choreographer(s) of the piece.
Optional Second Video
Students may submit an additional 23 minute video in another style. If submitted, follow the same intro format.
Attire Tips
Wear clothing that clearly shows movement. Avoid dark outfits on dark backgrounds, oversized layers, or hair covering the face.
Important
Pre-screens will only be reviewed once all materials are received and must include two letters of recommendation, one from a dance professional and one from an academic teacher.
Faculty and Accreditation
The program is led by a team of experienced faculty members and visiting professionals. The Montclair State BFA in Dance is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Dance.