Shenandoah University

What you'll study

Training emphasizes technical, creative and professional skills across a range of dance practices and supporting knowledge areas.

• Technique: integrated training in ballet, modern dance and jazz techniques.
• Performance: development of nuanced performance skills in classical and contemporary styles.
• Composition: contemporary dance composition including contact improvisation and partnering.
• Production & technical skills: experience with professional lighting, costuming and technical theatre.
• Theory & pedagogy: historical, scientific and pedagogical foundations for dance careers.
• Career development: strategies for professional promotion including use of web and media technology.
• Interdisciplinary options: ability to pair dance study with another academic focus and minors in Music, Theatre, Dance or Music Composition (department approval and auditions may apply).

Entry requirements

The publicly available programme description does not list specific admissions criteria on the source page. Incoming students work with an academic advisor to plan majors and minors; acceptance into conservatory minors requires Division/Department Chair approval and some minors require an audition.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of contemporary dance careers: concert performance with modern and jazz companies, commercial work (Broadway, touring, cruise lines, video/film), and studio teaching. The curriculum also prepares students for roles in arts promotion, marketing and administration, and for advanced study or careers in health and wellness professions that serve performing artists (e.g., physical therapy, exercise science, massage, fitness training).

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

While specific scholarships are not detailed on the programme page, conservatory students typically have access to departmental awards, performance-related opportunities and university career services that support internship searches and professional development. Applicants should consult Shenandoah University financial aid and conservatory offices for current scholarship, grant and assistantship options.