Point Park University

What you'll study

The programme balances daily technique classes with creative coursework and production experience. Core studio work typically covers ballet, modern, contemporary, jazz, tap, partnering and improvisation. Students study choreography and composition, repertory (creating and learning works by faculty and guest artists), and ensemble rehearsal processes.

• Technique and performance: progressive levels of ballet, modern/contemporary, jazz, tap, and partnering to build technical versatility and performance stamina.
• Choreography and composition: composition labs, choreographic projects, structured creative processes and group devising.
• Repertory: performance of faculty works and guest-artist pieces in studio and public productions.
• Anatomy, kinesiology and injury prevention: classes that cover body mechanics, conditioning, cross-training and safe practice for longevity in a dance career.
• Production and professional practice: stagecraft, lighting basics for dance, audition technique, résumé and portfolio development, and internship/practicum placements.
• Dance studies and contextual learning: dance history, music for dancers, somatic studies and analysis of contemporary performance practices.
• Senior capstone or recital: final-year choreography or performance project that demonstrates technical, creative and professional maturation.

Entry requirements

Admission to the programme is selective and requires both academic documentation and a performance audition. Typical requirements include a secondary school completion certificate (or equivalent) and submission of transcripts. Applicants must take part in an audition—on-campus or via recorded/online materials—which will assess technical ability, musicality and performance presence.

• Audition components commonly include prepared technique combinations (ballet and modern/contemporary or jazz), a short solo or variation, and a movement phrase or choreographic task.
• Some applicants will be invited to an interview with faculty to discuss training history, goals and readiness for conservatory-style study.
• Applicants may also be asked to provide a résumé of dance experience and references; international applicants should check additional documentation and English-language requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for a range of dance-related careers. Many pursue work as professional performers in contemporary companies, musical theatre, commercial dance and touring ensembles. Choreographers build portfolios and work in repertory creation for theatre, film, television and live events.

• Professional dancer in contemporary, ballet, commercial or theatre companies
• Choreographer or rehearsal director for stage, screen and live events
• Dance educator in schools, studios or community programmes (often requiring additional certification for public school teaching)
• Movement director, dance-based fitness instructor or specialist in movement coaching
• Arts administration, producer or company manager roles informed by practical production experience
• Further study options include graduate programmes in choreography, performance, pedagogy or allied fields such as dance science and therapy (which typically require specific postgraduate training)

Why study at Point Park University

Point Park’s Conservatory of Performing Arts offers conservatory-level training embedded in a university, so students combine intensive studio work with academic study and professional skills development. The university’s downtown location gives ready access to a vibrant regional theatre and dance scene, industry connections and performance venues.

• Professional faculty: instructors are active performers, choreographers and educators who bring current industry practice into the studio.
• Performance opportunities: students regularly perform in conservatory seasons and community events, gaining stage experience across repertory styles and production scales.
• Interdisciplinary collaboration: easy collaboration with musical theatre, film, production and other conservatory programmes enhances employability and creative range.
• Facilities and resources: dedicated dance studios, rehearsal spaces and access to the university’s theatrical production resources support technical and creative development.
• Career preparation: emphasis on audition technique, professional networking and internships helps students transition into the dance profession or further study.