Lee Wakefield, Chair
294 RB, (801) 422-5087
College of Health and Human Performance Advisement Center
203 RB, (801) 422-3638
Admission to Degree Program
The degree programs in the Department of Dance carry special
enrollment limitations. Please see the college advisement center
for specific details.
The Discipline
Dance is an art form expressed and communicated through
human movement. Throughout history, and in every culture,
people have danced. Dance incorporates the physical, mental,
emotional, and spiritual aspects of each individual in creating a
unique nonverbal expression of thoughts and feelings. As both
process and product, dance has the power to refine
neuromuscular skill, broaden understanding, increase creative
potential, and expand aesthetic sensitivity. At Brigham Young
University, dance celebrates the best in humankind and strives to
enrich the lives of all who experience it.
The BYU Department of Dance has been accredited by the
National Association of Schools of Dance (NASD) since 1989.
Career Opportunities
The majority of career opportunities in the dance field are
teaching and performance related. Teaching opportunities are
available in colleges and universities (for those with graduate
degrees), public schools, private studios, health and fitness spas,
special and adult education programs, day care centers, and
recreation programs. Performing opportunities are available by
audition with professional and regional companies and in
theatrical, television, and film production.
Less common, but equally rewarding dance-related careers are
also available in the areas of choreography and dance
administration, therapy, criticism, history, research, notation, and
reconstruction.
Graduation Requirements
To receive a BYU bachelor's degree a student must complete, in
addition to all requirements for a specific major, the following
university requirements:
- The university core, consisting of requirements in general and
religious education. (See the University Core section of this
catalog for details. For a complete listing of courses that meet
university core requirements, see the current class schedule.)
- A minimum of 30 credit hours in residence
- A minimum of 120 credit hours
- A cumulative GPA of at least 2.0
Undergraduate Programs and Degrees
BA Dance
BA Dance Education (secondary teacher licensure)
BFA Music Dance Theatre
Minors
Ballroom Dance
Modern Dance
World Dance
Students should see their college advisement center for help or
information concerning the undergraduate programs.
Graduate Programs and Degrees
MA Dance (under revision)
For further information, please see the Dance Department.
General Information
The Department of Dance is made up of four divisions: Ballet,
Ballroom Dance, World Dance, Modern Dance. These divisions
work cooperatively to provide opportunities for all students at the
university to develop their potential in dance.
Besides the wide variety of courses that apply toward the
general education Wellness requirement, there are professional
courses that develop leadership, performance, and choreographic
ability in all types of dance. Performing opportunities are
provided in on-campus concerts and off-campus performances
with groups that tour throughout the world.
Requirements
- Majors are counseled to maintain healthy lifestyle practices.
- Dance technique courses (including Dance 243R and 244R)
require a grade of at least B– for advancement to next level.
