Eastern Michigan University

What you'll study

This programme blends daily studio technique with coursework in choreography, dance history and somatic practice. Core studio classes typically include ballet, modern/contemporary, jazz and tap, plus improvisation, partnering and repertory. Academic and contextual subjects cover dance composition, choreography methods, dance aesthetics and criticism, and the history of dance across cultures.

Supporting courses often address anatomy for dancers, kinesiology, music for movement, pedagogy and rehearsal process. Students complete ensemble rehearsals and public performances, and develop a senior capstone—commonly a choreographic project or a research/performance thesis. Electives and interdisciplinary options let students combine dance study with related fields such as theatre, music, kinesiology, arts administration or education.

• Technique classes: ballet, modern/contemporary, jazz, tap, improvisation, partnering
• Choreography and composition: lab classes, choreographic projects, repertory
• Academic studies: dance history, dance theory, movement analysis and somatics
• Practical skills: rehearsal and production, lighting/stagecraft basics, audition preparation, professional practices
• Capstone: senior choreography project or performance thesis with public presentation

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high school diploma or equivalent. Admission typically requires an audition to assess movement ability and potential; some candidates may be invited to an observed class or submit a video audition if an in-person audition is not possible. Applicants are usually asked to provide a personal statement describing dance experience and goals, academic transcripts and one or two letters of recommendation.

International applicants must meet the university's English proficiency requirements. Transfer students should supply college transcripts and may have to demonstrate technique level for placement. Specific requirements and audition formats are provided by the Department of Theatre and Dance and may vary by intake.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a variety of careers across performance, education and arts administration. Common pathways include working as professional dancers in concert or commercial dance, creating work as choreographers, and teaching dance in studios, community programmes or schools. Those aiming to teach in public schools typically combine the degree with state teacher certification or additional education coursework.

Other career possibilities include arts administration, producing and curating dance events, dance production and stage management, dance advocacy and outreach, movement coaching for actors or athletes, and further study in fields such as dance therapy, physical therapy, performance studies or graduate choreography programmes. The practical training and performance experience also support roles in related creative industries like fitness instruction, movement for film/television and interdisciplinary performance collaborations.

Why study at Eastern Michigan University

Eastern Michigan University offers a balance of conservatory-style studio training within a public university setting, allowing students access to a broad liberal-arts curriculum alongside focused dance study. Students benefit from small-class instruction, regular performance opportunities in campus theatre spaces and collaborative projects with theatre and music departments.

The programme emphasises professional preparation—audition technique, résumé development and community partnerships—while faculty bring professional performance and choreography experience to the classroom. EMU’s location provides connections to regional arts organisations and touring companies, and the university supports internship and study-abroad options that broaden practical experience. The combination of technical training, academic study and production experience prepares graduates for flexible careers in the arts and education.