California Institute of the Arts

What you'll study

The programme emphasises advanced contemporary dance technique, choreographic composition and sustained artistic research. Coursework combines daily technique and improvisation classes with structured composition labs, repertory study and seminars in dance theory, history and somatic practices. Students pursue individual and collaborative projects that may include site-specific work, interdisciplinary performance, film/video choreography and research-led thesis projects.

• Technique and Practice: daily classes in contemporary technique, improvisation, partnering and specialised modalities (e.g. release, Cunningham-based work, somatics).
• Composition and Choreography: composition workshops, choreographic processes, devising methods, scoring and dramaturgy for dance.
• Research and Context: seminars in dance history, critical theory, movement analysis and research methods to situate creative work within broader discourses.
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: collaborative projects with students and faculty from visual arts, music, theatre and film to expand presentation formats and artistic vocabulary.
• Professional Practices: performance production, grant-writing, touring logistics, community engagement and teaching pedagogy.
• Thesis / Capstone Project: an extended choreographic or research-based project presenting new work in public performance, film or scholarly format, supported by faculty mentorship and a committee review.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold an undergraduate degree or equivalent professional experience in dance, choreography or a closely related discipline. The admission process prioritises demonstrated artistic potential, clarity of research goals and readiness for a conservatory-style environment.

• Completed application form and academic transcripts or documentation of prior study.
• Artistic portfolio: recorded performance or choreographic work (video links or files) showcasing technique, range and creative thinking.
• Statement of purpose outlining artistic aims, research interests and reasons for choosing the programme.
• Curriculum vitae detailing performance, choreographic credits and relevant professional experience.
• Letters of recommendation from teachers, choreographers or professional collaborators who can speak to the applicant's abilities and potential.
• In some cases applicants may be invited to an interview or on-site/audition process; international applicants should check visa and residency requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme pursue a wide range of careers across the arts and cultural sectors. The combination of rigorous practice, creative development and professional training prepares alumni for roles as independent artists and within organisations.

• Choreographer and independent dance-maker presenting work in theatres, festivals and alternative spaces.
• Performing artist in contemporary companies, ensembles or commercial projects.
• Movement director or choreographer for theatre, film, television and new media projects.
• Dance educator and workshop leader in higher-education settings, conservatories, community programmes and schools.
• Artistic director or curator of dance festivals, companies and interdisciplinary programmes.
• Roles in arts administration, producing and cultural management where creative insight and production knowledge are valued.

Why study at California Institute of the Arts

CalArts is renowned for its experimental, interdisciplinary ethos and its commitment to practice-based research. The School of Dance offers close mentorship from practising artists, abundant studio time and opportunities to collaborate across the institute’s schools of music, theatre, film and visual arts. Its location in the Los Angeles region provides access to a vibrant professional ecosystem of companies, choreographers, theatres and media makers.

• Interdisciplinary culture: regular cross-department projects that expand choreographic possibilities and presentation formats.
• Faculty and visiting artists: mentorship from active practitioners and opportunities to work with visiting choreographers and collaborators.
• Facilities: extensive studio spaces, performance venues and technical resources that support experimentation and production.
• Creative community: a peer environment that encourages risk-taking, experimentation and sustained artistic enquiry.