University of San Diego

What you'll study

The programme blends technique classes, creative composition and academic study to give a balanced foundation in dance and choreography. Core studio work typically includes modern/contemporary technique, ballet, improvisation, partnering, and composition. Complementary courses explore dance history and critical theory, anatomy for dancers, movement analysis, music for dancers and somatic practices such as Pilates or Alexander Technique. Students engage in choreographic processes from initial research and score-making to staging and repertory, and learn production skills including lighting, stagecraft and rehearsal direction.

Coursework emphasises performance as well as creation: students take part in departmental productions and ensemble projects and have opportunities for solo and collaborative choreography. The programme is delivered alongside a liberal-arts curriculum, so students also study humanities and social sciences that inform artistic practice. Many curricula include community-based learning, internships with local companies, and elective cross-disciplinary work with theatre, music, health sciences or education.

Typical modules and subjects

• Technique: Modern/Contemporary, Ballet, Jazz and Improvisation
• Choreography and Composition
• Dance History and Critical Studies
• Anatomy, Kinesiology and Injury Prevention for Dancers
• Production for Dance: Lighting, Stagecraft and Rehearsal Management
• Somatics and Movement Pedagogy
• Performance Lab and Repertory
• Capstone or Senior Project: choreographic thesis or concert

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high-school diploma or equivalent and meet the University of San Diego's general admission standards. Because this is a studio-based programme, admission ordinarily requires a live or recorded audition and submission of a dance résumé or portfolio demonstrating training and performance experience. Applicants submit an academic transcript and a personal statement outlining artistic interests and goals; letters of recommendation that speak to both academic readiness and creative potential are often encouraged.

Successful candidates typically show technical competence, expressive movement quality, creative potential and a commitment to sustained training. Prospective students with transferable college credit or strong professional backgrounds in dance may be considered through the standard admissions process; contact the department for guidance on audition alternatives, placement, and portfolio requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a range of careers across the performing arts and related sectors. Common pathways include work as professional dancers and company members, independent choreographers, rehearsal directors and movement directors for theatre and film. Many alumni teach in pre-professional studios, community programmes and after-school settings; those aiming for K–12 public school teaching usually pursue additional teacher certification.

Other careers include arts administration and producing, community arts coordination, dance therapy (which typically requires further specialised training), fitness and movement instruction, and roles in higher education or research when combined with postgraduate study. The programme also develops transferable skills valuable in other fields—project management, creative collaboration, critical writing and public presentation—supporting careers beyond the studio.

Why study at University of San Diego

The University of San Diego offers a liberal-arts environment that supports deep artistic training alongside broad intellectual development. Students benefit from close faculty mentorship, small class sizes and regular performance opportunities in campus studios and theatres. USD’s location within a vibrant cultural region provides rich connections to professional companies, community organisations and cross-disciplinary collaborators in theatre, music and health sciences.

The department emphasises both technical excellence and creative inquiry, preparing students to be adaptable artists and leaders. Facilities include dedicated dance studios and performance spaces, and students can take advantage of internship and research opportunities across the university. For students who value a conservatory-style dance experience within a comprehensive university, the University of San Diego provides a supportive setting to develop as performers, choreographers and arts professionals.