University of Arizona

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced studio practice, choreographic investigation and scholarly research. Core areas typically include advanced technique and conditioning, choreographic methods and composition, improvisation and contact work, dance history and critical theory, somatics and injury prevention, and research methods for practice‑based work.

• Advanced technique classes across contemporary, modern and partnered forms
• Choreography studio: creating, rehearsing and presenting new work
• Performance production: staging, lighting and collaborative processes
• Theory and history: approaches to dance scholarship and critical context
• Research methods: practice‑as‑research, documentation and writing for performance
• Pedagogy and community engagement: methods for teaching, outreach and residency practice
• Electives and interdisciplinary collaboration with theatre, music, film and health sciences

Students normally complete a substantial practical project or thesis that culminates in a public performance, choreographic portfolio and accompanying exegesis or research paper.

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally hold a relevant undergraduate degree (for example in dance, performance, fine arts or a related field) or demonstrate equivalent professional experience. Typical application materials include:

• A CV outlining training and performance history
• A personal statement describing artistic goals and research interests
• A choreography or performance portfolio — usually video recordings of recent work
• Letters of recommendation from tutors or professional referees
• An audition or live/online movement interview may be required as part of selection

Admissions panels look for technical proficiency, creative potential and evidence of the ability to undertake sustained practice‑based research. Non‑native English speakers must meet the university's English language requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a range of creative and professional roles across the dance and wider cultural sector. Common career paths include:

• Professional performer with contemporary companies or independent projects
• Choreographer and artistic director, producing work for stage, site‑specific or digital contexts
• Dance educator in schools, community programmes and private studios
• Rehearsal director, movement director or creative producer
• Arts administrator or curator working with festivals, venues and community arts organisations
• Practice‑based researcher, continuing to doctoral study or working in research roles that bridge performance and other disciplines (health, media, education)

The programme also supports entrepreneurial skills for freelancing, grant applications and collaborative projects, preparing graduates for flexible careers in a changing arts ecology.

Why study at University of Arizona

The University of Arizona offers a vibrant dance environment with experienced, research‑active faculty and access to dedicated studio and performance spaces. The programme emphasises both rigorous technique and creative experimentation, with opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration across the arts and health sciences.

Located in Tucson, the university provides close connections to a lively regional arts scene, presenting and residency opportunities, and community engagement projects. Students benefit from mentorship, regular public performances, and resources for documentation and digital dissemination of choreography.

Overall, the University of Arizona's master's provision is aimed at practitioners who want to deepen their craft, develop a professional choreographic profile and pursue research‑informed practice within an active academic and artistic community.