Bachelor of Arts in Dance

The bachelor of arts in dance allows students to combine studies in dance with other fields of interest. They take eight courses in technique, choosing among ballet, modern dance, and jazz. They must also take fourteen courses in dance theory, including history, composition, rhythmic analysis, scientific foundations of dance, and dance production. BA students must also complete a senior project. The curriculum is supplemented with special events, guest choreographers, and master classes with dance professionals. Three major concerts are produced each year. 

Through Five College Dance, UMass dance majors also benefit from the resources of Amherst, Hampshire, Mount Holyoke, and Smith colleges. The faculty coordinate curricula, performances, and services. They support a variety of philosophical approaches to dance and provide opportunities for students to experience a wide spectrum of performance styles and techniques.

Our dance majors become ambassadors of dance, advancing and advocating for the discipline through practice, inquiry, and research. With a BA, they are prepared for graduate study and careers in dance education, therapy, criticism, or journalism.