Oregon State University

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced studio practice with choreographic development and academic study. Core areas typically include technique classes (contemporary, improvisation and repertory), choreographic methods and composition, dance history and theory, somatic approaches to training, and research methods for practice-led inquiry. Students work on regular performance projects and collaborative productions, and engage with modules or workshops in related fields such as theatre production, music, digital media and movement science.

Assessment is usually a mix of practical work (performances, choreography), written research papers or critical essays, and a culminating capstone that may take the form of a concert-length choreographic work, an extended portfolio, or a written thesis accompanied by practical documentation. The curriculum emphasises experimentation, reflective practice and audience engagement, while offering opportunities to study pedagogy for teaching in studio, community and K–12 settings.

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally hold a recognised bachelor’s degree; a degree in dance or a closely related field is preferred but applicants with substantial practical experience in dance are also considered. Typical application materials include:

• A personal statement outlining artistic goals and reasons for pursuing graduate study;
• A choreographic or performance portfolio, usually submitted as video recordings of recent work;
• Academic transcripts from previous postsecondary study;
• Two or three letters of recommendation, ideally including at least one from an artistic mentor or instructor;
• An interview or live/recorded audition may be required to assess technical and creative potential.

Additional requirements can include a CV/resume highlighting performance and teaching experience and evidence of English language proficiency for international applicants. GRE scores are not typically required for practice-focused master’s programmes, but check the programme’s admissions page for current guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a range of professional pathways in the arts. Common careers include professional dancer, choreographer, rehearsal director and company manager. Many alumni work in education — teaching technique and choreography at university, college and community levels, or leading outreach and community-engaged dance programmes. Other career options include arts administration, producing, curating dance programmes, movement coaching for theatre and film, and continuing to doctoral-level research in dance studies.

The programme also prepares graduates to develop independent freelance careers, to found or direct small companies and festivals, and to work in interdisciplinary projects that bridge dance with health, technology and community practice. For those interested in therapeutic or clinical applications of movement, further certification or study may be required.

Why study at Oregon State University

Oregon State offers a faculty with active professional choreographers and researchers who balance creative practice with scholarship. The university provides dedicated studio spaces and regular performance opportunities that allow students to test work in public contexts. Students benefit from interdisciplinary collaboration across departments — for example with theatre, music, and movement science — which supports research-informed practice and access to a broad set of technical and academic resources.

Graduate assistantships and opportunities for teaching experience are typically available and help students develop pedagogical skills while supporting their studies. The programme’s location also encourages partnerships with regional arts organisations and community-engaged projects, providing practical contexts for choreography and outreach beyond campus.