Case Western Reserve University

What you'll study

The programme balances daily technique classes with courses in choreography, dance composition, improvisation and performance. Core studio work typically includes modern/contemporary technique, ballet, partnering, and repertoire, while classroom study covers dance history, critical theory, anatomy for dancers and somatic approaches such as Pilates, Alexander Technique or Feldenkrais. Students engage in ensemble rehearsals and public concerts, and complete composition workshops that culminate in a choreographic or performance-based capstone.

Academic and interdisciplinary options allow students to combine dance with complementary subjects—such as music, theatre, psychology, kinesiology, health sciences or arts management—through electives or a double major. Production and technical theatre courses teach stagecraft, lighting and production management; courses in pedagogy and community engagement prepare students to teach and to lead outreach projects. Many students also take electives in injury prevention, nutrition, and movement science to support long-term performance careers.

Entry requirements

Applicants need a high school diploma or equivalent with academic transcripts showing a strong overall record. Admission normally requires an audition, which may be in person or submitted as a recorded video demonstrating technical skill, performance quality and choreographic ideas; specific audition requirements and repertoire lists are provided by the department. Applicants typically submit a personal statement describing their dance experience and goals, and one or two letters of recommendation, preferably including at least one from a dance teacher or director.

Standardised test requirements follow the university’s undergraduate admissions policy and may be optional; consult the admissions office for current practice. International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests or other evidence of preparation in English. Transfer students should provide college transcripts and a portfolio or audition; placement in technique classes may be adjusted based on department assessment.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of careers in the performing arts and beyond. Typical paths include professional performance with contemporary or repertory companies, independent choreographic careers, dance education at community and pre-professional levels, and arts administration or producing. With additional qualifications, alumni work in dance therapy, movement-based wellness, physical therapy support roles, or fitness and Pilates instruction.

Other common outcomes are careers that draw on the programme’s creative, analytical and collaborative training: arts programming, community engagement, cultural policy, stage management, and entrepreneurship in the creative industries. Many graduates also pursue graduate study (MFA, MA or related professional degrees) in choreography, performance, dance studies, or allied fields such as physical therapy or arts management.

Why study at Case Western Reserve University

Case Western Reserve offers a liberal-arts-based dance education within a research university, enabling close mentorship from faculty who combine performance and scholarly expertise. The city of Cleveland is home to a vibrant arts ecosystem—professional dance companies, repertory theatres, orchestras and galleries—providing internship, collaboration and performance opportunities beyond the campus.

Students benefit from dedicated studio spaces and small class sizes that support individualized technical development and creative risk-taking. The university’s strengths in health sciences and kinesiology create distinctive interdisciplinary possibilities for students interested in movement science, injury prevention and somatic research. Support services for career development, arts entrepreneurship and community-engaged learning help students transition from study to professional life in the arts.