The Dance program in the Department of Theatre & Dance was launched in 2011. Six years later we're proud to offer the opportunity to major in Dance for the first time at UK. We are the only program in Kentucky with an emphasis on Modern Dance, Creativity, and Research-based choreography. A successful audition is required to be declared a dance major at UK.
As an art form, the study of dance incorporates and develops problem solving, collaboration, communication (visual, aural, written, and performative), critical thinking, peer mentorship, and project management - soft and hard skills that students can incorporate into a wide variety of career outcomes. The Major in Dance in the University of Kentucky’s Department of Theatre & Dance educates its students in the history, theory, creativity, practice, and performance of dance within the context of a broad liberal arts education. The central focus of the degree is based in creativity and choreography through the lens of diverse dance genres with an emphasis on contemporary practice. The 45-credit BA degree offers the flexibility to double major or minor in another discipline; broadening each student's potential to be successful in multiple industries, or to carve out their specific passion niche in a world of generalities.
Dance majors can easily enrich their studies by pursuing credits, certificates, minors, or double majors in:
And many more!
In addition to being admitted to UK, a successful audition is required to be declared a dance major. Audition dates for the 2018-19 academic year are November 11, 2017 and February 17, 2018. The Audition Reservation form must be submitted one week in advance of your selected date. During the audition, prospective students will demonstrate their knowledge of ballet, jazz, modern, and improvisation movement based phrases and exercises. The audition culminates with an individual interview meeting with a faculty member.
If you are unable to attend the audition dates a video audition may be submitted either via mailed DVD or link to a hosted video. Dance minors are not required to audition.
Within two weeks of the audition, a letter and email with your audition results will be sent. Those accepted into the program will be given their class placement level in ballet, jazz and modern technique.
Students generally enter the dance major program in the fall semester. The dance program also accepts new majors in the spring semester. Spaces in the dance major are filled on a first-come, first-served basis from those accepted to the program. When all of the spaces are full, accepted students who still wish to attend will be placed on a waiting list and notified if a space opens.
Transfer students must follow above procedures, including attendance at one of the two departmental auditions or through a video audition.
Audition Requirements Reserve Your Audition NowStudents are required to complete 12 credits of dance technique courses at a recommended skill level:
All Dance Technique classes are 2 credit hours and repeatable up to 12 credit hours. 13 credit hours of Dance Electives are also required; encompassing dance courses, theatre courses, and wellness/conditioning courses offered through the College of Education Kinesiology and Health Promotion (KHP) Life Fitness Program.
Learn More About Dance Learn More About KHPStudents can choose electives to lead to the minimum total of 120 hours required for graduation. This flexibility is the perfect opportunity to study a second field that complements a solid training in Dance.
There are countless ways to “see blue.” on campus, but the best way to maximize your journey at the University of Kentucky is by engaging in an Education Abroad opportunity.
This will allow you to gain a global perspective and enhance future employability. As you take the first step towards investing in your future, we encourage you to take advantage of all the opportunities UK has to offer. Take a look at some of the options UK Education Abroad & Exchanges office suggests to complement your major! #SeeBlueAbroad
View Major Advising PageDancers and choreographers use dance performances to express ideas and stories. There are many types of dance, such as ballet, tango, modern dance, tap, and jazz.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics | Click the link for more info.
Number of Jobs
20,100
in 2017
10 Year Job Outlook
1,100
new jobs (average)
About half of dancers and choreographers worked in schools and performing arts companies in 2014.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Read MoreSource: Bureau of Labor Statistics
College of Fine Arts
Department of Theatre & Dance
Fine Arts Building, Room 114
465 Rose Street Lexington, KY 40506
859-257-3297
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