Marymount Manhattan College

What you'll study

The programme emphasises intensive technical training and creative development within a liberal arts framework. Core study typically includes contemporary, ballet, jazz and modern technique classes, pointe/men’s technique where appropriate, and repertoire studies that expose students to a variety of choreographic styles and historical periods.

• Technique & Repertoire: daily studio classes in ballet, modern, contemporary and jazz; repertory courses featuring works by faculty and guest choreographers.
• Choreography & Composition: composition labs, choreographic workshops, phrase-building, improvisation and project-based creation for solo, ensemble and site-specific contexts.
• Performance & Production: performance labs, production practicum, stagecraft, lighting and performance-making for the college’s performance seasons.
• Academic Study: dance history and criticism, music for dancers, somatics, kinesiology and dance science to support safe practice and informed artistic choices.
• Professional Development: audition technique, career planning, rehearsal direction, community engagement and internship placements in New York City arts organisations.
• Capstone/Recital: a culminating performance, choreographic project or research thesis that demonstrates technical, creative and scholarly growth.

Course structure

The degree combines conservatory-style daily studio training with liberal arts coursework across four years. Students progress through sequential technique levels, take elective courses to broaden their interests, and participate in ensemble and repertory shows each year. Cross-disciplinary opportunities with theatre, film and music departments are available.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to demonstrate strong technical ability, artistic potential and commitment through an audition and supporting materials. Typical criteria include:

• Evidence of secondary-school completion or equivalent (high school diploma, A-levels, IB or international equivalent).
• Satisfactory performance in a live or recorded audition showcasing technique, artistry and versatility. Specific audition requirements can include prepared material, centre practice and improvisation.
• A personal statement or creative statement outlining dance background, training history and artistic interests.
• Letters of recommendation from teachers or professionals who can speak to the applicant’s dance training and potential.
• For non-native English speakers, proof of English proficiency as required by the college.
• Transfer applicants should provide a transcript and a portfolio or audition; advanced placement is considered based on prior training and faculty assessment.

Career prospects

Graduates enter diverse careers across the performing and creative industries. The programme prepares students for immediate professional work as well as further study.

• Performer: company dancer in contemporary, modern, jazz, ballet, commercial and musical theatre settings.
• Choreographer & Rehearsal Director: creating work for companies, theatre, dance festivals, film and multimedia projects.
• Dance Educator & Community Artist: teaching in schools, studios, community programmes and outreach projects; credentialing or additional certification may be required for K–12 public school positions.
• Movement Specialist: work in theatre, opera, film, physical theatre, or as a movement coach for actors and dancers.
• Arts Administration & Production: roles in management, producing, casting, marketing and programming within arts organisations and festivals.
• Further Study: graduate degrees in dance, choreography, performance studies, dance science, somatics or related fields.

Why study at Marymount Manhattan College

Marymount Manhattan College offers conservatory-level dance training within the cultural hub of New York City. The programme’s strengths include small classes, personalised attention from faculty who are active professionals, and frequent performance opportunities at the college’s theatres and in the city.

• Location: proximity to professional companies, choreographers and audition circuits provides practical exposure and networking opportunities.
• Faculty: working artists and educators bring current industry practice into the classroom and studio.
• Facilities & Resources: multiple studios, on-campus performance spaces and technical support for student productions.
• Professional pathways: structured internship and career services help students transition into professional work or postgraduate study.
• Cross-disciplinary opportunities: collaboration with other departments and access to liberal arts courses support broader critical thinking and career flexibility.