The Bachelor of Arts - Dance degree offers a well-balanced program that prepares students to have an understanding of the field of dance including performance, dance making, arts administration, teaching, and dance writing (criticism and scholarship).

Dance composition and performance are a primary focus throughout the student?s studies; through composition and performance classes, students learn about the art of dance making and develop a personal artistic voice. Additionally, students have many opportunities to choreograph and perform in Salem Dance Ensemble, a faculty-run dance group.

Through ongoing studio practice in class, students will develop proficiency in various dance techniques and somatic practices: modern, ballet, improvisation, yoga, mind-body awareness. Rotating topics in dance technique (i.e., hip-hop, tap, jazz, flamenco, tango) enrich the student?s ongoing studies, providing opportunities to study dance styles from a breadth of diverse cultures.

Studies in dance history and theory will give students a strong foundation in critical and creative thinking. Students will gain skills in creative problem-solving and develop detailed observation, listening, and introspective skills. The capstone seminar offers a culminating experience for students to further research an area of personal interest.

Dance pedagogy examines the methodology, learning styles, and the art of teaching the dance form and provide students with a solid foundation for dance instruction. Courses in dance production combined with hands-on production experience develop the student?s administrative and leadership skills.

Visiting artists from varied backgrounds teach master classes and perform throughout the academic year. These applied experiences with professional artists expose students to current trends in the dance field and enhance the educational experience. Students participate in the American College Dance Association each year and exemplary students can be initiated into the National Honor Society for Dance Arts.

The dance major degree program encourages experimentation, risk-taking, and interdisciplinary approaches in the student?s development as a dance artist. The dance curriculum cultivates a healthy respect and awareness in the body?s ability to communicate ideas, allowing students to create connections between their lives and the larger society.