Dance Studies
Bachelor of Science
Develop as a dancer, understand the how and the why of dance, and prepare for a career, graduate degree, or certification program
in performance, choreography, pedagogy, production/stage management, arts administration, therapy, history, criticism, theory and research, somatic therapies, or movement analysis, depending on your interests and choice of electives. Gain mastery from diverse classes in movement and theory, courses with global perspective, performing and choreography opportunities, internships, workshops, and residencies with faculty and guest artists who are professional dancers and field-certified educators. Grow with personal attention in our small classes.
Highlights
Enjoy dance-focused study abroad options in South America, Europe, Africa, or Asia
Choose a minor such as theatre arts, business, music, women and gender studies, or community youth development
Collaborate with peers in music and theatre and with the off-campus community
Shape your studies and capstone project to fit your individual needs and interests
Career Paths
- Dance educator
- Professor
- Dance therapist
- Performer
- Choreographer
- Somatic practitioner (Pilates, yoga, fitness)
Example Internships
- Professional dance company administrative intern
- Studio teaching intern/summer workshop intern
- Choreographer, dance captain, or performer in community/regional theatre productions
Graduate Schools
- Ohio State University
- Sarah Lawrence College
- Goddard College
- Rutgers University
Double Up
Take courses towards a possible B.A. or B.S. double major in another field of interest, including teaching
Go Global
Broaden your perspective through courses such as Dance and Culture, Afro-Caribbean Dance, and Anthropology of Dance
$4,000
Our SPARK Grant provides up to $4,000 for you to pursue internships, research, and study abroad. SPARK details »
Work with Professional Artists
Each year, Nazareth's Movement and Dance (MAD) Weekend offers dozens of master classes in a myriad of styles and cultural forms. Faculty and student dancers regularly perform in the Rochester International Fringe Festival. Nazareth hosts professional residencies on campus such as The David Dorfman Dance Co. (video).
How to Audition
Auditions are required for this major. View audition details and register »
Program Director
Alumni Spotlight
Jake Allen Smith '18, hired as a dancer at Busch Gardens Williamsburg
"There is an incredible range of diversity in professors and classes, limited class sizes that allow for individual focus and growth, and a focus on technique and performance-based classes. However, I believe the biggest strength of the dance program is the emphasis placed on the science behind dance. The somatic, anatomical, and kinesthetic knowledge I gained in the program proved invaluable to understanding my body and ensuring my health and longevity in an athletically driven career path."
"Nazareth provided countless opportunities within the college and in the field with working professionals. I was able to perform twice in the Rochester Fringe Festival (Merged Series with Prof. Heather Roffe), play the title role of Peter in Peter And The Wolf with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, and perform a piece in the DUMBO White Wave Festival at the Gelsey Kirkland Art Center in NYC. Simultaneously, I was also fortunate enough to be cast in five musicals and two plays within the Theatre and Dance Department. These opportunities shaped me into a well-rounded performer, which helped tremendously after graduation."