CAS in Dance Science: Motor Learning & Training

The CAS in Dance Science: Motor Learning & Training is a program offered by the University of Bern, focusing on the dance-related aspects of motor control theory, biomechanics, and exercise science. This program aims to enhance candidates' competency in developing and structuring training programs that optimize teaching and learning processes in different dance contexts.

Program Details

• Start Date: 2026/03/06
• Length: 06.03.2026 till 13.02.2027
• Scope: 16 ECTS
• Flexible Entry: No
• Single Module Visit: No
• Place: Bern
• Language: English
• Admission: Candidates must have a degree from a University, Fachhochschule, vocational education, or equivalent, as well as proof of appropriate experience in the field of dance or another movement-related field. This requirement may be waived if the candidate displays exceptional experience in the dance field.
• Registration Until: 2025/12/20
• Cost: CHF 4'500

About the Programme

The CAS in Dance Science: Motor Learning & Training comprises 16 ECTS points and is part of the Master of Advanced Studies (MAS) in Dance Science. The program can also be completed separately and includes 22 course days (147 contact hours) and 16 ECTS-points (ca. 480 working hours in total). The teaching language is English.

Target Audience

The continuing education program in Dance Science addresses the following target audience from the field of movement, sports, and dance:

• Dance professionals (dancers, teachers, choreographers)
• Artistic directors of schools, dance companies, and theatres
• Human Movement Scientists/Sport Scientists
• Physical education teachers
• Physiotherapists, Mensendiek-therapists, Osteopaths, Alexander-, Feldenkrais-, Spiraldynamik-, Pilates-, or Gyrotonic instructors
• Experts in the area of medicine, psychology, pedagogy, and education, nutrition, biology, and biomechanics

Field of Application

Graduates of the MAS/CAS in Dance Science are able to apply their knowledge in several ways:

• Improve the training and health of students, professional, and amateur dancers through evidenced-based programs that are both age and population-specific.
• Collaborate in scientific research in the field of dance or sport science.
• Teach Dance Science principles in vocational dance programs (e.g., dance or dance pedagogy).
• Advise directors of dance companies and schools/institutions on well-balanced and healthy training principles, as well as pedagogically responsible training for children, young adults, and the elderly.
• Advise the leaders of senior care facilities on the implementation of dance training for the elderly that can improve their quality of life.
• Continue working professionally as better-informed dancers, dance teachers, or therapists.

Modules

The program consists of four modules:

Module 1: Motor Control and Learning

• Duration: 2 x 3 days (4 ECTS points)
• Fundamentals: Basics of coordination, motor control, adaptation to coordination, motor learning, and motor development.
• Application: Experiments and exercises on motor control, exercises, and examples on motor learning for professional and amateur dancers.

Module 2: Science of Training

• Duration: 3 x 2 days (4 ECTS points)
• Fundamentals: Basics and application field of the science of (dance) training, general aspects of training in sports and dance.
• Training in Professional Dance: Performance assessment, didactic principles of training, theory, and application of conditioning and coordination testing.

Module 3: Biomechanics

• Duration: 3 x 2 days (4 ECTS points)
• Fundamentals I: Basics of biomechanics, loading capacity of biological structures, methods of movement analysis.
• Fundamentals II/Application I: Methods of movement analysis, technical aspects of dance floors, introduction to the sensor-motor laboratory.

Module 4: Embedded Research Skills

• Duration: 2 x 1 day (1 ECTS point)
• Research Method I: Understanding statistics, handling of numerical data sets, structure of a scientific paper.
• Research Method II: Evaluation of data in practice, understanding statistics, analysis of dance training.

Assessment

The assessment of the Certificate of Advanced Studies in Dance Science: Motor Learning & Training contains the following elements:

• Presence at block appointments (minimal 90% in total)
• Written exam with multiple-choice and open-end questions
• Written paper (analysis of a dance training)

Organising Institution and Faculty

The program is organized by the Institute of Sport Science, with the following members of the program management:

• Dr. Derrick D. Brown
• Dr. med. Anja Hauschild
• Prof. Dr. Ernst-Joachim Hossner
• Dr. med. Ines Debove
• Prof. Dr. Fred Mast
• Dr. Andrea Sch酺li
• Prof. Dr. Mirko Schmidt

Lecturers

The program features a range of lecturers, including:

• Dr. Sarah Meissner
• Dr. Catherine Haber
• Prof. Dr. Daniel Erlacher
• Dr. Luke Hopper
• Prof. Dr. Ernst-Joachim Hossner
• Nico Kolokythas
• Dr. Ralf Kredel
• Dr. Andrea Sch酺li
• Dr. Rolf van de Langenberg
• Prof. Dr. Matthew Wyon

Admission

Candidates must have a degree from a University, Fachhochschule, vocational education, or equivalent, as well as proof of appropriate experience in the field of dance or another movement-related field. This requirement may be waived if the candidate displays exceptional experience in the dance field.

Application and Tuition Fees

The study fee for the CAS in Dance Science: Motor Learning & Training is CHF 4'500. The fee must be paid before the start of the course, with the option for payment in maximal 3 installments. Application for the CAS in Dance Science: Motor Learning & Training is until 20 December 2025.

University of Bern

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Overview:

The University of Bern is a renowned institution located in the Swiss capital city of Bern. It is known for its academic excellence and enjoys an international reputation. The university offers a wide range of educational, sporting, and cultural opportunities, making it an attractive destination for undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral students.

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Services Offered:

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Academic Excellence:

The University of Bern is recognized for its high academic standards and research capabilities.

International Reputation:

The university enjoys a strong international reputation, attracting students and researchers from around the world.

Attractive Location:

Bern, the Swiss capital, offers a vibrant city life with numerous cultural and recreational opportunities.

High Living Standards:

Bern boasts a high quality of life with excellent living standards and a safe environment.

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Academic Programs:

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Other:

• The university has over 300 partner universities worldwide, providing students with ample opportunities for international exchange.
• The university is committed to sustainability and has implemented various energy-saving measures.
• The university offers a range of continuing education programs for those seeking to further their professional development.