Central Washington University

What you'll study

The programme balances technique, creative composition and contextual study. Core practical work typically includes ballet, modern/contemporary, jazz, and improvisation, with regular technique labs to build alignment, strength and performance skills. Choreography and composition courses guide students through creating solos, ensembles and site-specific works, emphasising process, notation and dramaturgy.

• Technique and Performance: progressive coursework in multiple dance styles, repertory rehearsals and performance practicum.
• Choreography and Composition: class assignments in choreographic tools, collaborative projects and a senior capstone choreography or performance project.
• Academic Study: dance history, critical writing, music for dancers, somatics and anatomy for movement, injury prevention and kinesiology basics.
• Production and Collaboration: stagecraft, lighting for dance, production practicum and interdepartmental projects with theatre, music and digital media.
• Pedagogy and Community Engagement: methods for teaching dance, practicums in community settings, and opportunities for outreach and arts education.

Throughout the degree students perform in departmental concerts, develop a professional-reel or portfolio and complete a senior project or recital that synthesises technique, choreography and research.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high school diploma or equivalent; transfer applicants submit college transcripts. Admission to the major usually requires a live or recorded audition that demonstrates technical ability, artistic potential and performance readiness. Typical submission materials include an academic transcript, a written statement of purpose, a résumé of dance experience and one or more letters of recommendation.

Recommended preparation includes several years of pre-college dance training across different styles and coursework or experience in composition and performance. Some applicants may be asked to attend a callback or interview. Students seeking certification to teach in K–12 schools should discuss additional programme options and credential requirements with the department.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a wide range of careers in the performing arts and related fields. Common pathways include professional performance with regional companies, independent choreography and producing, teaching in community studios or schools (often alongside additional certification), and arts administration or production roles within small companies and festivals.

• Professional dancer or company member
• Choreographer and rehearsal director
• Dance educator in community settings, pre-professional training or K–12 (with further certification)
• Stage manager, production technician or movement director
• Arts administrator, presenter or programmer
• Further study at graduate level in choreography, performance, dance studies, physical therapy or arts leadership

Why study at Central Washington University

Central Washington University offers a conservatory-minded dance experience within a public university, giving students access to professional faculty, regular performance seasons and collaborative projects across theatre and music. The department’s studio and theatre facilities support both rehearsal and production, while faculty bring regional and national performance and choreographic experience to training and mentoring.

The programme emphasises hands-on learning: students gain frequent performance opportunities, community engagement placements and production experience that prepare them for the practical realities of a dance career. CWU’s location and campus community also support regional touring, internships and partnerships with schools and arts organisations, helping graduates build professional networks as they move into performance, education or further study.