Course Overview

The Dance program at the University of Massachusetts - Amherst is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in dance as an art form, focusing on performance, choreography, and critical studies. Offered through the Department of Music and Dance within the College of Humanities and Fine Arts, the program emphasizes technical proficiency, creative exploration, and theoretical understanding of dance in cultural and historical contexts.

Unique Features

Students benefit from a curriculum that integrates studio practice with academic study, offering opportunities to engage in performances, workshops, and collaborative projects. The program fosters an environment of artistic growth through access to guest artists and interdisciplinary initiatives.

Career Prospects

Graduates of the Dance program are prepared for diverse roles in the performing arts industry, including professional dance companies, education, choreography, and arts administration. The program also equips students with transferable skills in creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking, applicable to various fields.

Key Faculty and Staff

While specific faculty names are subject to change, the program is supported by experienced instructors with expertise in contemporary dance, ballet, and dance history. Faculty often include active performers and choreographers who bring real-world insights to the classroom.

Unique Facilities and Partnerships

The university offers dedicated dance studios and performance spaces, including the Totman Performance Lab. Students also have opportunities to participate in regional and national dance festivals through departmental affiliations and partnerships with professional organizations.