Troy University

What you'll study

The programme blends daily technique classes with courses that develop choreographic voice, analytical skills and professional practice. Core studio work typically includes ballet, modern/ contemporary techniques, jazz and improvisation, while elective studios might cover tap, hip-hop, partner work and period dance.

• Choreography and composition: formulation of original work, phrasing, spatial design and creative process workshops.
• Performance repertoire and ensembles: participation in company-style rehearsals, repertory classes and staged concerts.
• Dance history and theory: survey of dance forms, cultural contexts and critical writing about dance.
• Anatomy and kinesiology for dancers: principles of movement, injury prevention and conditioning.
• Teaching methods and pedagogy: classroom management, lesson planning and methods for different age groups.
• Production and technology: lighting, stagecraft, music editing and use of digital media in choreography.
• Capstone project or senior recital: a choreographic thesis or major performance project demonstrating technical and artistic development.

Students also take general-education courses to ensure breadth across the arts and humanities, and may complete internships or community placements to gain professional experience.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally need a secondary-school diploma or equivalent and must satisfy the university's admissions standards. The programme requires an audition to assess technical ability, performance presence and potential for development; details typically include a prepared solo, participation in a technique class and short improvisation or choreography tasks. Applicants may also be asked for a written statement, letters of recommendation and an academic transcript.

Transfer students should provide a transcript of previous college work and may be placed in studio levels according to faculty assessment. International students must demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests or institutional measures. Specific minimum GPAs, audition formats and documentation requirements are published by the university's admissions office and dance department.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a variety of careers across the performing arts, education and community sectors. Common pathways include:

• Professional performer in contemporary companies, musical theatre or commercial dance.
• Choreographer for stage, film, television or commercial projects.
• Dance teacher in schools, private studios or community programmes.
• Arts administrator, company manager or producer working in production, fundraising and operations.
• Movement specialist roles such as Pilates or dance-fitness instructor, rehabilitation assistant or roles that combine dance with wellness.
• Further study at graduate level in performance, choreography, dance studies, arts management or allied fields.

Why study at Troy University

Troy University offers a programmes-style environment with regular performance opportunities and close faculty mentorship. Students benefit from hands-on rehearsals in dedicated studio spaces and the chance to present work in campus productions, which are integrated into the curriculum to build repertory and stagecraft skills.

The dance faculty combine academic expertise and professional experience, supporting students in auditions, choreography development and career planning. Small class sizes and ensemble work create a supportive setting for technical improvement and artistic risk-taking, while the university's broader liberal-arts framework helps students develop communication, critical thinking and professional skills useful beyond the studio.