BA in Dance - Dance Studies in Rochester United States | University of Rochester

The University of Rochester's Dance and Movement Program provides hands-on and academic exploration of dance traditions that nurture both body and mind. Our curriculum embraces global movement traditions, examining dance as artistic expression, spiritual discipline, social connection, and personal growth.
The Rochester dance experience emphasizes awareness, inclusivity, body-centered learning, and teamwork. Students can engage with various movement forms through classes, special events, productions, and research projects spanning multiple genres and academic fields. Our offerings include: Modern dance, Traditional African dance, Classical ballet, Yoga practice, Tap dancing, Breakdancing, Brazilian Capoeira, Jazz dance, Middle Eastern styles, Contact Improvisation, Performance Improvisation, Dance Therapy, Tai Chi, Qi Gong, Choreographic studies, Dance Pedagogy, Kinesiology, Movement Analysis, Global dance traditions, Meditative movement, Dance Filmmaking, and cross-disciplinary connections with fields like equity studies, mental health, accessibility research, neuroscience, Black cultural studies, gender studies, physics, and beyond
We provide a Bachelor of Arts degree in dance with two specialization options: Performance and Creative Practice or Academic Dance Studies.
The dance major requires completion of 50 credit hours. The academic track integrates coursework from complementary fields into the dance curriculum. Many students pursue double majors, combining dance studies with other disciplines for broader applications. Note that cross-listed courses may only count toward one requirement category.