University of Michigan

What you'll study

The programme balances daily studio training with academic coursework and creative projects. Core studio work includes contemporary technique, improvisation, partnering, repertory and somatic practices such as Pilates, yoga and release technique. Choreography and composition labs focus on devising processes, scores, dramaturgy and working with live musicians and designers. Performance-focused coursework covers rehearsal methods, performance studies and repertoire development.

Academic and research components cover dance history and theory, movement analysis, pedagogy and methods of practice-based research. Students choose electives across related disciplines — for example, music, theatre, movement science, digital media and community-engaged arts — and are encouraged to develop interdisciplinary collaborations. The degree culminates in a major creative project or thesis recital, supported by faculty mentorship and opportunities for public presentation.

• Technique classes (contemporary, improvisation, partnering)
• Choreography and composition studios
• Performance practice and repertory
• Dance history, theory and criticism
• Somatics, movement analysis and injury prevention
• Practice-based research methods and written contextual work
• Interdisciplinary electives and collaborative projects
• Final creative project, thesis recital or portfolio

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor's degree or equivalent; most successful candidates have an undergraduate degree in dance or substantial pre-professional training and performance experience. Application materials typically include a written statement of purpose outlining artistic goals, a resume or curriculum vitae, academic transcripts, and two to three letters of recommendation.

Because the programme is studio-based, applicants normally provide a live audition or video portfolio demonstrating technical facility, choreographic potential and performance quality. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency according to the university's requirements. Some applicants may be invited to an interview with faculty as part of the assessment process.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a wide range of careers in dance and the broader arts sector. Typical pathways include professional choreography and dance performance, company or independent repertory work, and teaching in higher education, conservatoires, schools and community settings. Alumni also move into arts administration, curation, cultural programming, community-engaged arts practice and dance research or doctoral study.

The programme's emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration and research prepares graduates for roles that bridge artistic practice with technology, health and education sectors — for example, movement-based arts therapies, movement science initiatives, or collaborative projects with music, theatre and digital media. The final project and public presentations support the development of a professional portfolio for funding applications, residencies and entrepreneurial activity.

Why study at University of Michigan

The University of Michigan's School of Music, Theatre & Dance offers a rich environment where studio practice is integrated with strong academic resources. Students benefit from faculty who are active choreographers, performers and scholars, as well as guest artists and visiting companies. The school provides high-quality dance studios, performance venues and access to allied facilities across campus for collaboration with music, theatre, fine arts and engineering.

Located in a region with a vibrant performing-arts scene and partnerships in Detroit and beyond, the programme offers multiple presentation opportunities and community engagement projects. Graduate funding, teaching and research assistantships are available to qualified students, and the university's library and research infrastructure support practice-based scholarship. The combination of conservatory-level training within a large research university makes this a strong choice for students seeking both creative development and academic depth.