Grand Valley State University

What you'll study

The curriculum combines technical training, choreographic practice and academic inquiry. Core studio work typically includes ballet, modern/contemporary technique, jazz and improvisation, with additional options in tap, partner work and somatic approaches. Choreography and composition courses cover creative processes, notation, rehearsal methods and collaborative making. Theatre production classes introduce lighting, costuming and stagecraft relevant to dance performance.

• Dance technique — progressive levels of ballet, modern/contemporary and jazz to develop strength, alignment and performance skills.
• Choreography and composition — studio-based creation, compositional structures, repertory studies and group projects.
• Theory and history — dance history, critical analysis, movement aesthetics and cultural contexts.
• Related studies — kinesiology and anatomy for dancers, music for dance, pedagogy and arts management electives.
• Performance and production — ensemble rehearsals, student choreography showcases, technical practicum and opportunities to perform in departmental productions.
• Capstone or senior project — culminating project such as a choreographic portfolio, senior recital or research paper that integrates practical and academic learning.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to meet general undergraduate admission standards for Grand Valley State University and provide documentation of secondary education. Admission to the dance major normally requires a movement audition and may include an interview or submission of a video demonstrating technical skill and creative potential. Recommended academic preparation includes coursework in arts, physical education and academic subjects.

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Movement audition (in-person or recorded) demonstrating technical ability and performance quality.
• Academic transcripts; a minimum GPA is suggested by the department but exact thresholds vary.
• International applicants must meet English proficiency requirements.
• Supplementary materials may include a resume of dance experience and a personal statement describing artistic goals.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of careers in the arts, education and related fields. The programme prepares students for professional performance and choreography as well as roles that draw on leadership, teaching and production skills.

• Professional dancer in contemporary, concert or commercial companies.
• Choreographer creating repertory for universities, companies, festivals and community projects.
• Dance educator in schools, community centres or private studios (additional teacher certification may be required for public school teaching).
• Arts administrator, production manager or community arts coordinator working with presenting organisations and non-profits.
• Movement specialist roles such as movement director for theatre/film, dance fitness instructor or consultant in wellness settings (may require further certification).
• Graduate study in choreography, performance studies, dance science or arts leadership.

Why study at Grand Valley State University

Grand Valley offers a liberal-arts environment with focused studio training and opportunities to collaborate across theatre, music and visual arts. Students benefit from regular performance seasons, faculty with active professional experience and hands-on production learning that prepares them for diverse careers in and beyond the studio.

• Access to dedicated dance studios and departmental performance opportunities that support both repertory and student-choreographed work.
• Interdisciplinary connections across performing arts, education and health sciences for broadened career paths.
• Community engagement and internship possibilities with regional arts organisations, schools and outreach programmes.
• Support services for students including academic advising, career guidance and pathways to graduate study or professional placement.