Dance, B.A., B.S.
The Department of Music, Theatre, and Dance encourages collaboration across disciplines and provides opportunities to explore dance through the study of technique, history, theory, technology, choreography, pedagogy, anatomy and physiology, and production. Secondary admission.
This program requires a secondary admission process.Program Overview
The Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree offers students extensive training to develop and refine techniques in various idioms of dance. A minor is also available. Students develop abilities through a range of courses combining practical and theoretical skills emphasizing critical thought and independence. Participation in the dance program is by audition only. Visit gvsu.edu/dance for audition information and an application.
Why Study Dance at Grand Valley?
- The program is designed for students who demonstrate exceptional training for college-level dance.
- Students work with world-renowned faculty members and guest artists in small classes.
- There are a variety of movement courses in ballet, hip-hop, jazz,
modern, and African dance forms to choose from.
- Students also will focus their academic experience on dance history, technology, composition, improvisation, pedagogy, and theoretical perspectives to ensure their success as educated members of the dance community.
- In addition to classes, workshops, informal showings, and student choreography concerts, dance students have the opportunity to perform with the GVSU Dance Company.
Career Insights
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Location & Format
Undergraduate students in this major study at Grand Valley's Allendale Campus.
Format:- Face To Face
Coursework
- Modern, ballet, hip-hop, jazz, African dance forms
- Choreography, dance history, dance pedagogy
- Performance, costuming and production, screendance
Combined Degree Programs
Many GVSU undergraduate programs can be combined with an existing master’s degree program to save on tuition and get you into the workforce sooner. On average, you can save $8,500 by pursuing a combined degree and take up to four fewer courses than if earning the degrees separately.
Talk with an advisor about how you can build your combined degree from existing programs to further personalize your education and create your own niche area of expertise.
Admission Requirements
Participation in the dance program is by audition only. An audition schedule and application form can be found at www.gvsu.edu/dance/.
Helpful Links
For More Information
Department of Music, Theatre, and Dance
gvsu.edu/mtd
1300 Thomas J. and
Marcia J. Haas Center for Performing Arts
(616) 331-3484
"The dance program at GVSU, and the amazing teachers there, have enabled me to grow as a choreographer, performer, and student. I have gained a broader idea of what dance can be, and opportunities such as building connections with guest artists and students at ACDA have prepared me both mentally and physically to enter the dance field. Additionally, being able to double major has allowed me to pursue multiple passions through interdisciplinary study and research. All dancers should consider this program!"
DANCE ALUMNA, 2025