Harvey Mudd College

What you'll study

Harvey Mudd students interested in dance normally take classes and ensembles through the Claremont Colleges consortium, which provides access to a broad range of technique, theory and creative courses taught across partner institutions. Typical areas of study include modern and contemporary technique, ballet fundamentals, improvisation, partnering, somatic practices (for example, Pilates or release-based methods), repertory and performance, and choreography workshop. Complementary academic courses often cover dance history and criticism, movement analysis, interdisciplinary approaches to performance, and topics in music or theatre that support choreographic work.

Students can structure a course of study to emphasise performance, composition and choreography, or the scholarship of dance. Work often culminates in public performances, choreography showcases or collaborative projects that integrate technology, design or scientific perspectives—reflecting Harvey Mudd’s emphasis on interdisciplinary inquiry.

Entry requirements

Harvey Mudd College does not admit students directly into a Bachelors in Dance because a dedicated dance major is not offered by the College; however, applicants who plan to study dance through the consortium should demonstrate a strong academic record and a clear statement of purpose that explains how dance fits into their broader educational goals. Typical admissions materials include secondary school transcripts, letters of recommendation, and standard application essays.

If you are interested in more intensive conservatory-style training or a major administered by another Claremont institution, check the admission and audition/portfolio requirements of that college. Some partner colleges may request a dance résumé, video audition, or in-person audition for placement in advanced technique or major programmes.

Career prospects

Graduates who combine a Harvey Mudd education with formal dance training pursue a range of careers that blend artistic and interdisciplinary skills. Common paths include professional performance with contemporary or repertory companies, independent choreography and producing, teaching and community arts education, dance therapy or movement-based wellness, arts administration and management, and choreography for film, television and digital media.

Because Harvey Mudd emphasises analytical thinking and technical skills, alumni are also well placed to work at the intersection of dance and technology—roles might include motion-capture specialist, creative technologist for live performance, or researcher in movement science. Many graduates apply their problem-solving skills in non-arts careers while maintaining dance as a professional or avocational pursuit.

Why study at Harvey Mudd College

Harvey Mudd offers a distinctive environment for students who want rigorous STEM training alongside serious engagement with the arts. Small class sizes, close faculty mentorship and an emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration allow students to design personalised study plans that pair technical learning with artistic practice. Through the Claremont Colleges consortium, Harvey Mudd students gain access to extensive dance course offerings, rehearsal and performance spaces, faculty choreographers, and student-run ensembles across the five-college campus.

For students interested in choreography that intersects with science, engineering or digital media, Harvey Mudd provides unique resources and opportunities—collaborations with students and faculty in computer science, robotics, engineering and the visual arts can support innovative performance work and research in movement technology. Prospective students should contact the College’s registrar and arts coordinators to explore cross-registration, rehearsal space availability and performance opportunities before enrolling.