Columbia University

What you'll study

The programme blends daily technique classes with coursework in choreography, dance history and somatic studies. Core studio work typically covers ballet, modern/contemporary technique, improvisation and partnering, while composition modules focus on choreographic structures, movement invention and working with score and sound. Complementary academic courses include dance theory and criticism, performance studies, anatomy and kinesiology for dancers, and electives that might explore film, digital media or theatre.

Students take progressive technique labs each term, participate in ensemble rehearsals and production workshops, and complete directed choreography projects. The curriculum culminates in a senior capstone—often a solo or group work presented in a juried public concert—accompanied by a reflective written component or research portfolio.

• Technique classes: ballet, modern/contemporary, improvisation, partnering
• Choreography and composition
• Dance history, theory and criticism
• Anatomy, injury prevention and conditioning
• Performance production, lighting and stagecraft for dance
• Interdisciplinary electives across music, film, theatre and digital arts
• Senior capstone recital or research portfolio

Structure

Study is organised across classroom seminars, daily studio practice and performance labs. Students follow a mix of required core modules and electives, and are expected to engage in public performance each year. Opportunities for independent study, collaborative projects with other departments and internship placements in the New York arts sector are integral to the degree.

Entry requirements

Applicants must meet Columbia University's undergraduate admission standards, demonstrating strong academic preparation in secondary school work and the intellectual curiosity aligned with a liberal-arts degree. For the Dance major, applicants are normally required to submit a movement portfolio or audition material (video or live), and may be asked to participate in an interview or movement audition to assess technical competency, creative potential and collaborative capacities.

Typical supporting materials include academic transcripts, personal essays, and letters of recommendation. While prior intensive training in dance is common, programmes also value evidence of creative work, reflective practice and the ability to balance studio commitment with rigorous academic study. Check the university admissions pages for specific audition formats and guidance on preparing footage or in-person audition material.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a range of careers across the performing and creative industries. Common pathways include professional performing (contemporary companies, theatre, commercial work), choreographing for stage, film and digital platforms, rehearsal directing and artistic management. Many alumni also pursue teaching in schools, community arts organisations or dance studios—often combined with further certification for K–12 education—or segue into related fields such as arts administration, curatorial practice, movement research, physical therapy (with postgraduate study) and interdisciplinary production roles that draw on skills in choreography, media and collaboration.

The programme’s location in New York City supports placement and networking opportunities with companies, festivals and independent producers, and students often gain professional experience through internships, residencies and co-productions.

Why study at Columbia University

Studying dance at Columbia offers intensive studio training embedded in a world-class liberal-arts environment and the creative ecosystem of New York City. Students benefit from faculty who are practising choreographers and scholars, access to cross-disciplinary courses across Columbia’s schools, and collaboration opportunities with musicians, filmmakers, theatre-makers and researchers.

The university’s urban setting provides direct access to a broad professional dance scene, visiting artists and performance institutions, enhancing both practical experience and professional networking. The programme emphasises both artistic growth and critical inquiry, preparing graduates to make original creative work and to situate that work within broader cultural, historical and scientific contexts.