The College of Wooster

What you'll study

The programme balances practical studio work with historical, theoretical and scientific study of movement. Core studio classes typically include modern technique, ballet, improvisation, composition/choreography and partnering. Students also study related subjects such as dance history, somatics and body conditioning, kinesiology for dancers, and music for movement.

Coursework emphasises progressive skill development: beginning and intermediate technique classes, advanced composition and rehearsal processes, and opportunities to take repertory or creation seminars. The curriculum often allows electives in theatre, music, psychology, anthropology or biology to support interdisciplinary approaches to dance.

A central feature of the degree is an independent senior project: students design and complete a sustained creative or research project under faculty supervision. Projects can be choreography with public presentation, practice-based research, or an academic thesis exploring historical, theoretical or pedagogical questions in dance.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to meet the College’s general admissions standards and to demonstrate potential in dance. Typical requirements include:

• Academic transcripts showing successful secondary education completion;
• An audition or submission of performance video footage that demonstrates technical ability, expressivity and potential for growth. Information on audition format and accepted media is provided by the department;
• Letters of recommendation, preferably including at least one from a teacher or mentor who can speak to the applicant’s dance experience;
• A personal statement describing dance experience, creative interests and reasons for pursuing a liberal-arts dance education.

Placement in technique classes may be determined by audition during orientation. Some students with limited formal training may be admitted and progress through foundational courses.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a broad range of careers in and around dance. Common paths include:

• Performer and company dancer for professional contemporary, modern or theatre dance ensembles;
• Choreographer and independent creator presenting work in festivals, community venues and site-specific contexts;
• Dance educator in public or private schools, studios and community programmes (additional certification may be required for K–12 positions);
• Arts administration, production, presenting and community arts coordination roles that support performing-arts organisations;
• Further study at graduate level in choreography, performance studies, dance science, physical therapy or arts leadership.

The programme’s combination of practical training and a liberal-arts foundation equips graduates for flexible careers that draw on creativity, critical thinking and collaborative skills.

Why study at The College of Wooster

The College of Wooster is a residential liberal-arts college known for its close faculty-student relationships and a strong emphasis on independent inquiry. Dance students benefit from small class sizes, regular performance opportunities, and faculty mentorship through the senior independent project that is central to the College’s pedagogy.

Studying dance at Wooster also offers cross-disciplinary advantages: students can combine studio practice with courses across the arts and sciences, pursue internships in regional arts organisations, and take part in study-abroad or community-engaged projects to broaden their artistic perspective. The environment supports both emerging performers and students aiming for scholarly or community-centred careers in dance.